18-03-2025
Team behind Customshop to open wine bar in Dilworth
The owners of Customshop and Marina's Tapas are opening a wine bar in Dilworth this fall.
Why it matters: The duo behind both restaurants, Andres Kaifer and Alex Bridges, have a knack for bringing international flavors to Charlotte. The new wine bar, which doesn't have a name yet, will be no different.
"It's also important for us to introduce people to regions and varietals they haven't had and will love," Bridges said in a statement.
Catch up quick: Marina's Tapas is a Spanish tapas food stall in Optimist Hall, featuring recipes from Kaifer's family in Spain.
Customshop has a seasonal rotating menu with dishes inspired by North Carolina agriculture and his upbringing in Miami.
Yes, but: The wine bar's menu is still being developed. "We designed a concept where [Bridges'] expertise on wine will be the main event, and the food menu can be a culinary playground not tied to any genre," said Kaifer.
What to expect: The 1,200-square-foot wine bar and retail shop will open in Mere's old spot in The Courtyard shopping center off Park Road.
It'll have bar seating, a large communal table and a patio with outdoor seating.
They'll serve wines by the bottle, and it will have an extensive by-the-glass list.
"We're creating a place we'd both want to hang out with friends on a free afternoon or night," Kaifer said.
