George Martin celebrates 25 years
George Martin the Original celebrated it’s 25th anniversary on Sept. 15.
“It’s a lot of years and it seems like yesterday,” said George Korten, owner of the George Martin restaurant group.
To help celebrate the event, the staff wore the original uniform of the restaurant – a white bistro apron, white shirt and black tie.
“Not many businesses, especially restaurants, survive 25 years,” said Korten.
Korten said that his chefs, Corporate Chef Frank Greco and Executive Chef Chris Holt, have worked with him for 25 years. He also said Manny Libow, the head bartender, was part of the first George Martin team.
“It’s a real tribute to my staff and management,” said Korten. “I’ve had people that have been with me for a long time and it’s a tribute to them. I’m proud of them.”
Korten said that when he started the restaurant, he did not think about 25 years later, although he wanted the restaurant’s concept to be timeless instead of trendy.
“We wanted a concept that would be there for quite sometime,” said Korten.
After graduating Cornell in 1981, Korten worked in New York City restaurants for a few years. In 1987, he opened his first restaurant – Mim’s in Syosset. In 1989, Korten opened George Martin the Original.
Korten sold Mim’s to his partner in 1993. Earlier this year, Korten bought back Mim’s and turned it into a Grillfire restaurant. There are currently eight restaurants in the George Martin Group, including four Grillfire restaurants.
So what about the future? Korten said he is close to opening restaurants in Farmingdale and Massapequa. “Pretty close to getting leases signed,” said Korten. “Not a definite yet. Looks like it.”
