Romancing the stones

Small plates, chill scene, a world of wine, beer and whiskey. Such is the plan for Moonstones, Scott Plath’s new venture in Chelmsford. Cobblestones’ more worldly cousin is set to open in the former Ground Round by May and the owner finally spilled some beans: “It will be relaxed, social, progressive, real comfy,” he said. The bar will be twice the size as Cobbies and while there will be white table clothes for fine dining, Moonstone’s is bar-centric. “The bar is the biggest area,” said Plath. Chef Manny will do double time in the kitch. for both establishments. You won’t see potato skins on the menu here, the look and feel is anti-chain. That’s music to my ears. I haven’t set foot in a chain since an old boyfriend used to drag me to chili’s. Those were the days. But hold on, this refreshing news doesn’t mean Moonstones will price some of you out. In fact Plath made a big point of saying “It’s not upscale, this is a place to socialize.” Seventy five percent of the wine on the list is priced at $30 and under. Refreshing. “It will not look or feel like a Ground Round at all,” said Plath.
Seeya at the soft opening.

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GG,
Thank you for your ongoing interest in moonstones, your patience and for the always appreciated press. But, as a man with a reputation to uphold (be it what it may), I must make all of your readers aware that you grossly misquoted me. I have not, did not, and never, ever will... use the word "Cobbies". :)

Scott,
True you never said that, it wasn't a direct quote. Cobbies is what Gourmet Gal calls your fine establishment. Cute, no?
GG

I am so excited about this. Thanks for keeping us informed, GG.

Can't wait to see the place. Chelmsford's gain is Lowell's loss.
On a side note...I prefer independent restaurants but I'm not anti-chain. When your "up the mall" it's hard to avoid chains. And I've been noticing a lot of $5 off coupons at chains in The Suns circulars. Or if you just got a Talking Phone Book there's a coupon in there for a free app at Smokey Bones. There's also one in there for a "buy one get one half price" dinner at La Carreta's. Unless your too proud? Thoughts?

Yes GG, cute. And you are!
Coupons? Not so much.

Sorry Brian. It's not pride, as much as philosophy. With that said, for a limited time, and for the web marketing value, we are participating in the Restaurant.com gift certificate program. (I tell you because I trust that you are not "one of those" that uses a gift certificate on the minimum purchase requirement) Enjoy!
SP

Scott,
Were going to have different opinions with you being a restuarant owner and me a customer. My philosophy is "I work hard for my money" so spend it wisely. If I'm going to pay marked up prices for drinks but I can get a deal with a coupon, I'd be foolish not to. Since I never belonged to the Fraternal Order of Restauranteurs(FOR) I don't really feel philanthropic when I go out to eat. But I do tip the server based on what I should have paid. Does that make sense?
Good luck with Moonstones!

Brian,
You lost me on the FOR thing, and philanthropy. We seek no donations, and to the contrary, donate generously to a wide range of community causes.

We work hard too. Very hard. And to that end, we only seek full price for the work we do in trying to deliver an excellent product, 6 days a week, 13 hours a day.

Smokey Bones has their own philosopy.

You paying full price at Cobblestones could in fact be seen as philanthropic to a degree, as we choose to "give back" in a different way.

Thank you so much for your patronage, and well wishes. SP

PS I have been known to seek a bargain myself here and there!!

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This page contains a single entry by Gourmet Gal published on March 12, 2008 11:04 AM.

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