For Immediate Release

Jan. 8, 2025

 

The Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors has approved a five-year lease with the Touch of Italy (TOI) Group to oversee its food and beverage operations, including the Yacht Club, the Beach Club, and the Clubhouse Grille.

 

Celebrated for its signature Italian cuisine and hospitality, TOI plans to expand Ocean Pines’ menus with fresh seafood and American fare, while preserving beloved local traditions like free summer concerts on the Yacht Club patio.

 

The company operates three Touch of Italy locations, plus the Royal Prime Steakhouse at Bally’s in Dover, Delaware, and Sunset Island Bar and Grille on 67th Street in Ocean City.

 

TOI also manages wedding, banquet, and conference services for Bally’s in Dover, showcasing its capability to produce both casual dining and large-scale events.

 

Additionally, Chef's Table at Touch of Italy in Rehoboth features acclaimed local Chef Hari Cameron and a vibrant blend of fine dining and educational experiences, and TOI operates its own dedicated commissary kitchen and bakery.

 

Rick Lawrence, who oversees financial operations for TOI, said the company is embracing the challenge of expanding further by delivering exceptional results in Ocean Pines.

 

“This is an exciting opportunity for us to raise the bar in Ocean Pines,” Lawrence said. “The pressure’s on, but we’re confident we’ll deliver.”

 

Lawrence said TOI founder Robert Ciprietti, who launched the first Touch of Italy in 2010, has built a reputation for culinary excellence.

 

“[Ciprietti] is deeply passionate about getting every flavor right and ensuring a high standard for every dish,” Lawrence said. “That’s why we’re so confident we can elevate the dining experience in Ocean Pines.”

 

Ocean Pines General Manager John Viola said TOI has flourished in several competitive markets, and understands the importance of delivering menu options that appeal to all tastes and are consistently of high quality.

 

“TOI has successfully managed a tiki bar operation in Ocean City, several thriving local restaurants, and a major banquet operation in Dover. We expect they will bring all that expertise to Ocean Pines, making them an ideal fit for our community,” he said.

 

TOI officials pledged to make Ocean Pines a go-to dining destination.

 

“We want to be responsive, deliver exceptional quality, and earn the loyalty of Ocean Pines,” Lawrence said. “Our goal isn’t just to be the convenient choice – we want to be the first choice.”

 

Stay tuned for updates on TOI’s official start date and a town hall announcement at oceanpines.org.