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Hampton Street Vineyard, the only upscale French restaurant in Columbia, has welcomed Chef Wesley Fulmer as its new executive chef and managing partner.
Known for his innovative farm-to-table dishes and creative seasonal offerings, Fulmer joins the team with an extensive culinary background, including his tenure as executive chef at Motor Supply Bistro in Columbia, according to a news release.
With a career spanning over two decades, Fulmer has mastered a range of cuisines, including classic French, Southern, Cajun/French creole, rustic Italian, and South Carolina Lowcountry, the release stated. His time as executive chef at Motor Supply Company Bistro earned numerous accolades, including Southern Living’s Best Restaurants in the South and multiple Best of Columbia awards from Free Times, Columbia Metropolitan and The State.
Recognized as Best Chef by Free Times from 2019 to 2023, Fulmer’s passion for food is deeply personal — rooted in family traditions and a lifelong commitment to hospitality, the release stated. For him, every dish is an opportunity to craft a meaningful experience, a philosophy that aligns with the vision of Hampton Street Vineyard.
“It is extremely refreshing to work with like-minded individuals who want to improve on a daily basis. I’m incredibly excited and deeply optimistic about the future of Hampton Street Vineyard,” Fulmer said. “This restaurant is a true gem — rich in history and a cornerstone of Columbia’s dining scene. Now, I have the privilege of working alongside one of the industry’s best, Jonathan Lopez, as we take Hampton Street Vineyard to even greater heights.”
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Owner and operator, Jonathan Lopez, also brings a wealth of industry experience, spanning across fine dining, wine programs, and restaurant leadership, the release stated. His career began while studying at the University of Texas, and he later honed his skills at renowned restaurants in Chicago and New York City. He advanced from beverage director, to general manager, and eventually earned his Advanced Sommelier certification in 2018 from the Court of Master Sommeliers, making him the only restaurateur in Columbia with this esteemed certification, the release stated.
Jonathan Lopez purchased Hampton Street Vineyard in 2019. (Photo/Knox & Magnolia)
Since purchasing the restaurant in 2019, he has dedicated himself to elevating the local dining scene and bringing expertise from Michelin-starred restaurants and world-class wine programs to Hampton Street Vineyard, the release stated.
“We couldn’t be more proud and excited to have Wes joining Hampton Street Vineyard as a partner,” Lopez said in the release. “Our early conversations quickly made me aware that we shared a vision for a top-tier restaurant in Columbia. The last few months with Wes here at Hampton Street Vineyard proved that he’s committed to this shared vision through his hard work, dedication, and passion for quality. Things have quickly improved and I know that it is only the beginning of what I believe will be Hampton Street Vineyard’s best chapter. I look forward to continuing to work with Wes to further our vision to make this restaurant the best possible version of itself.”
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