CHARLOTTE – Chef Andres Kaifer of Customshop is teaming with Miami chef Michael Beltran to open Roe & Olivia’s later this year in Lower South End.
Beltran and Kaifer met in 2015 and became friends. Kaifer held his wedding at Beltran’s restaurant Ariete.
“Opening a restaurant with someone I consider a brother is a dream,” Kaifer said. “Michael and I have co-consulted on quite a few restaurants over the years, and we realized we should unite and build something for our families. I’ve always loved working alongside Michael, and partnering in this way is the ultimate collaboration.”
The concept is named after their firstborn daughters, Roe and Olivia, who were born hours apart on the same day.
Roe & Olivia’s will be a contemporary American restaurant viewed through the lens of each chef’s heritage. It is designed to be an extension of the chefs’ homes.
The 3,644-square-foot concept will have about 120 seats, including patio seating, in the former Giovanna’s space at 3531 Dewitt Lane.
“I’m inspired by the growth of the food scene here. You can feel the care and love for the craft in the food, and I’m excited for Roe & Olivia’s to become part of that landscape,” Beltran said. “At its core, Roe & Olivia’s is about friendship, family and community, the things Andres and I value most, and the reason we wanted to build this restaurant together.”
Dining and Cooking