The House That Mattison Built

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The House that Mattison Built

Sarasota Herald Tribune, Dining Guide
The House That Mattison Built
March 2009

In 2002 restaurateur Paul Mattison who had been a very popular chef at the former Summerhouse Restaurant on Siesta Key opened his first Mattison s restaurant in downtown Sarasota. Looking back, it was the beginning of a downtown Sarasota citification that is still occurring.

Today, with two more popular eateries one in South Sarasota (Mattison s Forty-One) and one waterside in Bradenton (Mattison s Riverside), plus catering, culinary and more, the Mattison s mark is all over town.

What is that mark? Well, the distinctive Mattison s flair includes signature items and choices that are appropriate to each venue. Paul goes into a neighborhood and figures out how his style can blend with what the area needs, says marketing manager Jennifer Ahern-Koch. He is not constricted by franchise rules so he can be creative and flexible, she adds.

The Mattison s approach offers a range of choices, from a simple snack like a sandwich or pizza to sitting down to a full meal. It also favors Mediterranean fare appetizers such as artichokes-Esther style and flash-fried calamari are on all the menus as are entrees like delicious pastas and a range of chicken, pork, lamb, steaks and seafood dishes.

Family is a major element to factor in to the Mattison s world. Paul Mattison grew up learning about food from his Nonna, and was raised in a family where food brings people together. And it still does, at all of these tried and true favorites.