Charlotte – Located in the Uptown neighborhood, Charlotte’s award-winning dining destination, EVOKE, 555 S. McDowell Street, is thrilled to announce Rodrigo Velazco as Chef de Cuisine. A native of Caracas, Venezuela, with an unparalleled culinary background, Chef Velazco will fuse his South American roots with a deep passion for locally seasoned ingredients and American Nouveau style to create a revamped spring menu at the contemporary steakhouse.
“I look forward to the experience – sharing our knowledge, hospitality and quality ingredients to create unforgettable moments. For us, it’s about creating personal connections between our chefs and diners,” says Chef Rodrigo Velazco. “My focus for EVOKE is on blending taste and emotions with savory flavors; flavors that travel with our guests beyond the walls of our dining room.”
Chef Velazco joins EVOKE from upscale Charlotte restaurant, Vivace, where he served as executive chef, allowing him to truly immerse himself into the city’s thriving dining scene. Prior to moving to Charlotte, Chef Velazco gained extensive experience working under James Beard award-nominated Chef Phil Bryant at Miami hot-spot, The Local Craft Food and Drink, and Michelin star Chef Danny Grant at 1826, as well as serving as sous chef for “Top Chef” contestant Jeff McInnis. During his tenure at The Local Craft Food and Drink, known for continuous – almost daily – changes to the menu, Chef Velazco brought his deep knowledge of culinary operations, techniques and plating esthetics to set the standards in the execution of new dishes, focusing on consistency in flavor balance. He also served as sous chef at Miami dining destination Yardbird Southern Table and Bar, which was named one of Bon Appétit’s “50 Best New Restaurants,” and nationally recognized for engaging service, classic and refined Southern cuisine and top-notch hospitality.
To make a reservation or for more information, visit www.evokerestaurant.com or call 980-237-5354.
About Evoke
With seven awards in its first year of business including Best Steakhouse, Best New Restaurant, and named one of Charlotte Magazine’s Top Ten Restaurants, Evoke takes pride in creative cuisine in a unique, modern atmosphere accented by floor to ceiling windows. Executive Chef Rodrigo Velazco focuses on prime and dry-aged steaks, house-made pastas and innovative, raw seafood crudos, all complemented with a selection from the extensive wine, craft whiskey and craft beer lists. Guests are also able to earn reward points by simply dining at Evoke. For more information, visit www.evokerestaurant.com or call 980-237-5354.
About Le Méridien Charlotte
Le Méridien Charlotte, the newest hotel in Uptown, introduces a premier global brand with a blend of contemporary culture and European heritage to Charlotte. By creating a culturally-refined, meaningful and stimulating atmosphere, the hotel appeals to creative-minded guests seeking a new perspective in each destination they visit. The hotel recently completed a multi-million dollar transformation, providing guests with the most up-to-date and luxurious rooms, spaces and amenities. As part of a dual-hotel complex, Le Méridien Charlotte’s guests benefit from an expansive area, which features 300 well-appointed guestrooms and suites, and over 55,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, including five ballrooms and 29 meeting rooms, ideal for business meetings and functions up to 1,800 guests. Whether looking for relaxation, activity or cuisine, the hotel is replete with options. Guests may enjoy Evoke, the hotel’s award-winning new-age steakhouse, and Longitude Bar, a full fitness facility with state-of-the-art equipment, as well as indoor and outdoor pools. For more information, please call 704-372-9610.
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