Empire at 138 to offer upscale dining option

An upscale restaurant is to open at 136-138 S. Washington St. in Tiffin this winter. Empire at 138 is to bring a historic flair to white tablecloth dining in Tiffin. “The building dates back to the mid-1800s, when it was part of the ‘Empire Block.’ We would like to bring some of that historic Tiffin feel back to the downtown, and create an elite dining experience,” said partner Rick Reser. Focused on preserving and reusing as many historical architectural elements as possible, Reser and his wife, Renee Perry, also a business partner, are renovating 136 S. Washington St., which is to be the dining room. The other building, 138 S. Washington St., is to house the bar – a historical piece from McClain’s Restaurant in Bellevue. The restaurant is to be open for casual lunches and upscale dinners. Partner and chef Mike Pinkston describes the menu as “classic American fare using organic and as many local ingredients as possible.” There are to be vegan and vegetarian options, high-quality meats and seasonal items. The Empire at 138 is accepting reservations for parties in December. Contingent upon restoration progress, it is to open for daily operation in January.