Eastern Standard Team Opening Branch Line in Watertown

Garrett Harker. Photo provided

Owner Garrett Harker and General Manager Andrew Holden of Eastern Standard Kitchen & Drinks have officially announced that they’re teaming up to open a new restaurant, Branch Line, projected to open this fall.

Described as an “urban rotisserie,” Harker and Holden’s new concept will also have an extensive beer and wine focus. Located in the historic Arsenal on the Charles complex, home to Athenahealth, Branch Line will have an expansive outdoor space for year-round dining, as well as a seasonal bocce court.

“I remain as proud to be a part of the Eastern Standard family and incredible management team today as I did on day one,” said Andrew Holden via a press release. “I can’t wait to bring the guest experience that we’ve strived to create to my hometown while continuing to guide Eastern Standard into its second decade.”

Since opening Eastern Standard in May, 2005, Harker has since gone on to open Island Creek Oyster Bar, Row 34 (Boston and Portsmouth), and The Hawthorne, and was a 2015 James Beard Award semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurateur. Holden, a Watertown native, has served as general manager of Eastern Standard since 2006 and will remain in that role while also overseeing management and operations of Branch Line.