Pacchia, the upscale eatery in downtown's Oregon District, has been sold to a couple with ties to Dayton dining.

Glen Brailey, who founded Pacchia 13 years ago, sold his business to Stephen Ramsey and Carla Carnahan, Oregon District residents who came to the area as investors in Thai 9, around the corner from Pacchia on Brown Street. Ramsey and Carnahan assumed ownership Monday, March 31.

"I wasn't considering selling Pacchia, but when I was approached with an offer, I decided it was a good time in my life to make a change," said Brailey in a statement. "It wasn't easy to decide to sell a business I founded, but Stephen and Carla have a proven track record of success. I'm positive they'll take Pacchia to the next level, and I'm excited about the energy they bring to the restaurant."

Ramsey and Carnahan said they don't plan immediate changes to the restaurant, keeping Executive Chief Joseph Fish in charge and maintaining the focus on seasonally updated New American cuisine. They do, however, plan to bring back lunch service and open a new rear patio. Pacchia is located at 410 E. Fifth St. During his tenure as owner and operator, Brailey expanded Pacchia to include a coffee house and live jazz music.

"Glen has arrived at a great concept and model, and we will build on what he's created," Ramsey said. "We're really excited about what's happening in the Oregon Arts District and see a huge potential for additional growth for the restaurant and the area."

Community philanthropist Michael Ervin recently pledged $250,000 in seed money to a new Oregon Arts District which, combined with an $850,000 investment from the city of Dayton, will be used to expand parking and encourage new businesses, galleries and events in the district. Ervin is also an investor in Pacchia.

"There are amazing possibilities for the neighborhood," said Carnahan. "The timing is really fantastic."