New American restaurant flora opening soon in South End
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Inside flora you'll find a large centered bar. Photo: Courtesy of flora
A Hamptons-based restaurant, flora, will open in South End this summer.
Why it matters: The Atherton Mill restaurant marks flora's first expansion beyond New York, with the owners choosing Charlotte for reasons that go beyond business.
What they're saying: Co-founders David and Rachel Hersh say Charlotte is where they first built a life together, and they always knew one day they'd return.
- "When Rachel and I first got together, we moved here, bought our first home in South Charlotte, and built some of our most meaningful memories," said David. "Now, with our two young boys it feels like the perfect moment to come home."
Context: The Hershs' Rooted Hospitality Group owns several New York restaurants, including the original flora in Westhampton Beach.
- They're also behind Cowfish (not associated with the Charlotte restaurant with the same name), Fauna, AVO TACO and RUMBA, which has three locations.
What to expect: The seasonal menu will feature New American cuisine with dishes like seared scallops, pickled deviled eggs and sweet basil chicken. Executive chef Benjamin McKinney, who leads the kitchen at flora's Westhampton Beach location, will also lead the Charlotte restaurant and source local ingredients.
- The drink menu has nine signature cocktails, three of which are martinis — including one with a cold brew made with Enderly Coffee. There are also four mocktails and wines list with over 50 options to choose from.
- Inside the 5,000 square foot space, you'll find a 27-seat centered bar and booth seating. Outside, there are some patio seats.
Zoom in: To celebrate the opening, the team plans to hide $25 gift cards around Charlotte for 20 days. They'll post clues on Instagram to help people find them.
What's next: The opening for flora is set for July 15 at 2120 South Blvd., in the former Eagle Food & Beer Hall space.
- They'll be open for lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday from 11:30am-9pm, Friday 11:30am-10pm, Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 11am-9pm. Eventually they'll offer brunch.
