A Mariemont restaurant that’s been serving the community for over 40 years was just named one of Ohio’s restaurants of the year.
The Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance recently awarded The National Exemplar with its Southwest Ohio Restaurant of the Year, one of the state’s highest honors in hospitality, food and service. The restaurant says the award not only reflects a standout year, but the 42 years of thoughtful stewardship and consistency that have made it a neighborhood staple.
“This award isn’t about a single moment or a single year,” Michael Pardo, president and CEO of the Phoenix Restaurant Group, said in a press release. “It’s a reflection of the commitment made more than four decades ago. One built on consistency and taking pride in doing the basics exceptionally well. Our goal has never been to be trendy or different; it has always been to create an exemplary dining experience where guests know they’ll enjoy great food, friendly service and feel welcome every time they walk through the door.”
The National Exemplar was founded inside the historic Mariemont Inn in 1983 by Ken Pendery and has since grown alongside the village, serving third- and fourth-generation families of diners. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, offering a menu of American classics.
The Ohio Restaurant & Hospitality Alliance award also comes on the heels of The National Exemplar being named one of “5 essential steakhouses” by Cincinnati Enquirer food writer Keith Pandolfi, says the restaurant.
In honor of the award, The National Exemplar says it plans to celebrate with guests through in-restaurant acknowledgements and future events.
The National Exemplar, 6880 Wooster Pike, Mariemont. More info: nationalexemplar.com.