HARBORCENTER President John R. Koelmel announced today that Dominic Verni has been named General Manager of its restaurant and sports bar.
“Dom brings tremendous experience and notable success in the food and beverage industry to HARBORCENTER,” Koelmel said. “We are very excited to have him leading the team that will make our restaurant and sports bar one of downtown Buffalo’s most enjoyable and notable entertainment venues.”
The yet-to-be-named establishment will be owned and operated by HARBORCENTER and will front Scott Street. Patrons of the 13,000 square foot, two-level restaurant, with seating for 350, will enjoy fare that is highlighted by Western New York culinary favorites while featuring locally produced ingredients. The menu will be complimented by an extensive collection of craft beers and signature cocktails, available at three feature bars.
In addition to being a focus for fans and visitors before and after Sabres home games and other events at the adjoining First Niagara Center, patrons will be able to enjoy the experience of a 36-foot television screen, the largest in Western New York, as well as other amenities throughout the year.
Prior to joining HARBORCENTER, Verni spent 17 years with the Hard Rock International Restaurant, Hotel and Casino chain, most recently serving as General Manager of their Café Restaurant, Retail and Live Music venue in Niagara Falls, USA. He also brings international experience from his franchise restaurant openings in both Montreal and Niagara Falls, Canada and led Hard Rock’s global recruitment efforts through its European Work and Travel Program for the Northeastern United States. Verni headed company café operations in the Cleveland and Boston markets before returning to WNY in 2004.
“I’m proud to have an opportunity in my hometown to play a lead role in such an exciting venture and am confident my background and experience will contribute to the success of not only our venue but to Canalside and downtown Buffalo as well,” added Verni. “HARBORCENTER and the District will be the place to be beginning in the Fall of ’14.”
Verni, a Buffalo native, attended City Honors School and the University of Buffalo. He currently resides in the city of Buffalo with his wife and their two children.