When it comes to romantic restaurants or elegant places to impress clients, Chef Joseph’s at the Connoisseur Room was a go-to in Downtown Indianapolis. The restaurant closed Dec. 31.

Executive Chef Joseph Heidenreich’s plans to retire at the end of 2017 convinced Chef Joseph’s owners to shutter the restaurant, in operation at 115 E. Ohio St. since November 2011.

“We are proud to have achieved our goal of bringing a little bit of New York City to Indianapolis. We will miss the evenings of fantastic local music that were shared with our guests, many of whom have become friends and family,” John Mays said in a evening Dec. 20 press release.

Mays owns Chef Joseph's with business partner Tom Forman.

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Shows and charity fundraisers were part of the Chef Joseph’s experience. The Caberet brought various performers to the opulent red, black and dark wood space that hosted a two-story wine cellar, plush banquettes and a baby grand piano.

Heindenreich’s creations added a sense of accessible luxury. His dishes ranged from the smoked salmon on savory pancakes with sour cream and caviar featured when Chef Joseph’s at the Connoisseur Room opened to more recent artichoke tempura with manchego cheese and garlic mayonnaise.

The chef previously helmed Agio, a beloved Mass Ave. restaurant that closed in 2011. After its demise, Heindenreich partnered with Mays, an event planner, and Forman to open Chef Joseph's for lunch and private events. The following March, the trio added dinner service.

“It is with mixed emotion that I step away from the kitchen after serving Indianapolis at establishments such as California Café, Agio and finally Chef Joseph’s.” Heidenriech said in the release.

The owners will honored reservations and private events scheduled through Dec. 31.

Follow IndyStar food writer Liz Biro on Twitter: @lizbiro, Instagram: @lizbiro, and on Facebook. Call her at (317) 444-6264.