Savor the sound

TIFFIN --- Chef Rob Malone is bringing a new culinary perspective to Downtown Tiffin with the opening of his intimate restaurant, The Turntable. "Our doors are open to anybody — I do realize it's going to be a little bit different so I encourage people to get outside of their comfort zone," says Malone. The Turntable will offer a different dining experience focusing on small plates featuring locally sourced farm-to-table ingredients. Malone's culinary creations range from a classic "I Am a Real American" pressed smash burger to modern interpretations of traditional Italian dishes like the "Peoples Therapy." The menu will also feature an extensive selection of wines, sakes, cocktails, and beers to complement the diverse culinary offerings. Tiffin is "like a playground" for the experienced Chef. "One of the cool things about Tiffin is that one of our suppliers may call me with something new that's going to be harvested, and I get to go pick it up and serve it that evening. I don't know if people know how unique that really is." Reihm Farms, Clayhill Organics, and Buckeye Seafood are all on Malone's long list of local suppliers. He smiled as he explained, "Restaurants around the world would die to have that." Malone's motto is "Live, work, play" and he intends to do all three, all the time. He resides in downtown Tiffin with his wife, Brittany. The couple is majorly inspired by the network of other local restaurant owners. The theme of the restaurant is intentionally broad with, "music as eclectic as the menu is." This way, Malone hopes to cater to families as much as college students. He is a lover of music and is collaborating with 22 Mrkt Record store to sell every record he plays in-restaurant. Drawing inspiration from post-World War II listening lounges in Japan, The Turntable will feature a state-of-the-art Hi-Fi sound system playing vinyl records including jazz, blues, classic rock, and more. Malone's goal is to transport patrons into a world where exceptional food meets unparalleled ambiance. Originally from Sycamore, Malone is returning to the area with a Grand Diplome from Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Institute. He also brings with him experience in distribution and brewing, totaling 20 years of love and knowledge. The menu will offer artistic dishes that are unique and encouraged to share. Plan to call ahead for a seat at the Turntable, as the local excitement for the restaurant is already buzzing. Patrons can also stop in for a casual seat at the counter. Doors will open later this spring. The Turntable is set to open its doors at 116 S. Washington Street (Previously the home of JT's Bagel Bar) in the Laird Building. The "shotgun style" urban space has given Malone many ideas that he can't wait to share. For a detailed menu and more background information, visit The Turntable's website at www.tiffinturntable.com. Malone reflects, "Tiffin has changed a lot for the better in such a short time, and I'm happy to be a small part of it. Entrepreneurship isn't for everyone, but it's important to follow your passion. We've got one go at living."