A new dining destination has officially opened in Umatilla. 9|North Hometown Grill & Watering Hole is co-owned by Jonathan Jennings and Brian “Hawk” Hawkins, two longtime friends who turned a shared dream into reality.

The restaurant sits inside a beautifully restored 1920s-era building, designed to reflect both its historic character and a fresh, hometown atmosphere. Jonathan said opening a restaurant had been a goal since his college days.

“I’ve been wanting to do it since my senior year of college,” Jonathan says. “The timing wasn’t right before, but I finally had the chance to do it right. I found Brian, and we decided to make it happen together.”

Brian said the partnership came naturally.

“We’ve known each other a long time — good friends,” Brian says. “It just felt like the right decision.”

Inside, 9|North features two distinct spaces, a full-service dining area and a lively bar side. The bar includes a VIP-style lounge that wraps around a massive TV, ideal for watching sports, especially the Tampa Bay Buccaneers which will be featured.

Guests can also enjoy a full liquor bar featuring signature cocktails and local favorites.

The menu offers a wide range of scratch-made dishes, from hearty burgers to upscale entrées. Starters include items like fried green tomatoes, King’s Bavarian Pretzel and Mahi Fish Dip. Handhelds range from the 9|North Smash Burger to the Philly Cheesesteak, all served with seasoned fries.

Entrées include a 14-ounce ribeye, bangers and mash, creamy Cajun chicken pasta and a rotating fish of the day. The restaurant also offers a full kids menu and house-made desserts such as Italian lemon cake, carrot cake for two and classic milkshakes.

The restaurant held its grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony on Thursday, and is now open Wednesday through Sunday 11 a.m. 10  p.m. at 9 N Central Ave. in Umatilla.