Abbott’s Grill opens in Paynter’s Mill near Milton

Just in time for the summer, Abbott’s Grill is ready to heat up the Milton dining scene with its new restaurant in Paynter’s Mill.

Located in the space previously occupied by Sydney’s, the new Abbott’s Grill includes about 200 seats, a full bar and an upstairs space for special events. 

The new restaurant is a collaboration between co-owner and Executive Chef Kevin Reading and business partner Ryan Maloney, co-owner of Brick Works Brewing and Eats. Helping open the new restaurant is chef Paul Gallo, who has worked with both men at Abbott’s Grill and Brick Works. Reading and Maloney have formed a restaurant group called Five O’Clock Concepts, which will allow them to share resources.  

“It’s a good blend of what Kevin has done the last 10 years or so. It’s a nice blend of our current Abbott’s Grill on Broad Creek [in Laurel] and our former Abbott’s Grill in Milford, but with a little bit more of a coastal theme,” Gallo said.

Director of Marketing Samantha Hall said the location’s proximity to Route 1 made it attractive and served as a bit of a homecoming for Reading, who got his start at restaurants like Espuma and Nage in Rehoboth Beach. The menu at the new Abbott’s Grill is based on classical American dishes.

Gallo said the menu includes a traditional New England clam bake, fresh fish, pastas and sandwiches.

“Classical dishes with small twists have always been our thing,” he said. “Different twists on down-home food, like meatloaf, pot roast, chicken and dumplings.”

When Abbott’s Grill took over the space, Reading and company gave the interior a massive renovation in three months.

“The atmosphere here is a huge flex for us,” she said. “We haven’t had a store that looks like this yet. It’s very open and bright and vibrant.”

Abbott’s Grill will have happy hour daily from 3 to 6 p.m., which will feature dishes that are only available during that time, such as oysters on the half shell, buffalo cauliflower and steamed shrimp. 

“We try to offer a wide variety,” Gallo said. 

Both Gallo and Hall said the Paynter’s Mill community has been very supportive, and they said Abbott’s Grill wants to be a comfort spot for locals.

“People have been super warm to us – very welcoming,” Hall said of the reception.

Abbott’s Grill in Milton is open at 3 p.m. on weekdays and at 11 a.m. on weekends. Reservations are recommended and can be made at 302-549-4074.