Carlton Park Swaps 'Local Organic' for 'Eclectic American'

Seven months after opening, Carlton Park is swapping its organic/seasonal/local concept for a casual American theme.

Greg Yerman, who opened the restaurant at the corner of Park Place and Flatbush Avenue in May and also owns a Mexican restaurant a block away, said he wants to change the restaurant from a “special occasion” venue, to a more affordable, neighborhood spot that will attract a regular clientele.

“At Burrito Bar we have the same guests come in three-to-four times a week,” he said.  

Currently, the restaurant's website says it offers "handcrafted dishes prepared from fresh, seasonal ingredients and organic produce from local farms" and values "sustainable practices and seek producers of the highest quality local and organic products."

However it notes that they are currently "revitalizing" their concept and "look forward to offering a new environment with fun, approachable food and drinks."

Yerman said he plans to keep many of the same dishes and will use some organic products. But he said an entirely organic menu was "cost prohibitive."

“We will be offering some organic products but that will be one or two items on the menu. Or new concept doesn’t allow us to use all organic, or local, but we’re still using quality products,” he said.

On the new menu, which Yerman calls "eclectic American," all entrees are between $12 and $20.

Gone is the $29 venison and $23 Long Island Peking duck. However the beet, kale and winter salads are staying. New additions include macaroni and cheese with truffles and veggie burgers. 

The kids menu has also been revamped and will include mac and cheese, veggie and beef “baby burgers,” and chicken fingers.

The restaurant is closed this week to retool. For the rest of the month it will be open Friday night through Sunday brunch only. The restaurant will resume six-day-a-week service on New Year’s Day.