Tony's Chef Grant Gordon and GM Scott Sulma to Open Vallone's in Memorial City

In a press release issued yesterday, Tony's chef Grant Gordon and general manager Scott Sulma announced their plans to open Vallone's in the Gateway Memorial City complex at Gesner and I-10. When it debuts in the Fall of 2013, the restaurant will feature a "technique-driven approach to steak, fish, chops, and housemade pastas." Reached by Eater, Sulma explains that in addition to beef, the restaurant will serve boar, lamb and wild game such as elk and venison.

Both Gordon and Sulma grew up in Memorial; Gordon graduated from Memorial High School and Sulma went to Kinkaid. Sulma explains that the project is the "Brainchild between chef and me. We've been really wanting to go out west. There's a market and a need for a restaurant with that personal touch, personal feel and attention to detail that we really enjoy providing." That does not mean, however, that Vallone's will have Tony's formal atmosphere. Sulma describes it as "Warm, with a lot of energy. It will be casual and approachable ... People can come in and feel comfortable." That means no jackets required.

Since Gordon is a partner in the project, he'll be the executive chef and will work in the kitchen. For those who might be concerned by that news, Sulma says it "Won't have any effect on Tony's whatsoever. He and I and Mr. Vallone will be involved in every decision."

For diners in and around the Energy Corridor, the announcement is another sign of the area's growing importance. For Tony's fans, it's another chance to eat Gordon's food at a slightly lower price point. It's already one of the most interesting new restaurants announced for 2013.

· Vallone's [Official Site]
· With Vallone's, a Talented Tony's Team Joins Forces on a Memorial Steakhouse [CultureMap]
· All Tony's Coverage on Eater Houston [-EHOU-]

Grant Gordon and Scott Sulma [Photo courtesy of Vallone's]