Columbus chef to open Mediterranean restaurant in Scioto Mile

Josh Dalton, behind Veritas and Speck, plans new eatery in high-profile downtown space.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Columbus chef Josh Dalton, known for his work at popular restaurants Veritas and Speck, is planning to open a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in a prime downtown location along the Scioto Mile. The new eatery is slated to open in the spring of 2026, taking over the space previously occupied by the now-closed Milestone 2 restaurant.

Why it matters

The opening of Dalton's new restaurant is significant for the local dining scene, as it will bring a high-profile chef and cuisine to a prominent location in the heart of Columbus' revitalized downtown area along the Scioto riverfront. This continues the trend of acclaimed chefs opening new concepts in the city's urban core.

The details

Dalton, who has earned a reputation for his work at the upscale Veritas and the casual Speck restaurants, plans to bring a Mediterranean-influenced menu to the new space. The restaurant will occupy the former Milestone 2 location, which closed in 2025 after a decade-long run. The new eatery is slated to open in spring 2026.

  • Milestone 2 restaurant closed in 2025 after a decade-long run.
  • Dalton's new Mediterranean restaurant is planned to open in spring 2026.

The players

Josh Dalton

A Columbus chef known for his work at the popular Veritas and Speck restaurants.

Milestone 2

A restaurant that previously occupied the space where Dalton's new eatery will open, closing in 2025 after a 10-year run.

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The takeaway

Dalton's decision to open a new Mediterranean-inspired restaurant in a prime downtown location signals continued confidence in the Columbus dining scene and the city's revitalized urban core. The new eatery is poised to become a high-profile addition to the local culinary landscape.