Chef opens family restaurant in shuttered taco joint

POWELL, Ohio (WCMH) -- A central Ohio chef whose résumé spans Cameron Mitchell Restaurants, Bon Vie and 101 Beer Kitchen has launched his own eatery, taking over the former home of a taco joint that closed last year.

Chef Michael Frame's Two Rivers Restaurant and Bar is now welcoming patrons at 4046 W. Powell Road after hosting a grand opening celebration earlier this month. The eatery is the first solo venture for Frame, a Powell resident who served as the executive chef of 101 Beer Kitchen for more than 10 years and previously worked for Bon Vie and Cameron Mitchell.

"Every plate is a testament to Michael's passion for flavor and innovation," the Two Rivers site states. "Whether you're enjoying a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, Michael's kitchen offers a culinary journey complemented by a selection of fine wines, craft beers, and handcrafted cocktails, making every visit unforgettable."

Frame's eatery is launching in the kitchen that previously belonged to Yabo's Tacos, a central Ohio-based joint known for unique takes on Southwestern dishes. Yabo's closed at the Powell site last September and moved operations to the chain's Lewis Center restaurant. At 5915 Evans Farm Blvd., the 2,500-square-foot Lewis Center location with a wraparound bar and a 500-square-foot patio opened in late 2022.

"Powell friends, thank you for the support over the years," wrote Yabo's, which also has a restaurant at 5242 Cemetery Road in Hilliard and its original location at 7097 State Route 3 in Westerville, on Facebook. "We've moved our business to Yabo's Evans Farms."

Now, Two Rivers, which boasts itself as the "perfect destination for family meals and everyday celebrations" is serving up a selection of salads, sandwiches and mains like grilled New York strip, seared Aukra salmon and spinach and ricotta tortellini. An extensive wine, craft beer and cocktail list rounds out the menu.

Frame's restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.