Come Mid-May, expect to see L'explorateur, a new upscale restaurant in Broad Ripple that's emphasizing original recipes, quality service and fine wine selections

This is Neal Brown's first venture running his own dining operation, but the 35-year-old chef has plenty of experience under his belt working at some of the city's best eateries, including H20 Sushi, Brugge Brasserie and the now closed Tavola di Tosa.

One nagging business detail still needs to be nailed down, but Brown has most of the fine points of the deal signed, sealed and delivered; There's an investor on board backing the business, a promise to offer superior customer service and the vision of garnering an award from Wine Spectator by year two. Brown won't disclose the restaurant's location until a real estate matter is resolved, but he hopes to have the address issue settled this week. (Hint: A restaurant already operates in the spot he wants.)

L'explorateur will have two dining rooms, one for formal dining and the other set up as a casual raw bar serving delicacies from the sea, including octopus. General manager Lindy Arnold will oversee the front of the house, including the on-line chat reservation line. Check out www.theexplorateur.com for updates on the new venture.