The food hall at Optimist Hall has landed a new concept from the team behind Customshop.

Chef-owner Andres Kaifer and Managing Partner Alex Bridges, who took over the longtime restaurant in Elizabeth in 2022, plan to open a Spanish tapas eatery at Optimist Hall this summer, according to a press release this morning.

The venture will fill the former Velvet Taco space, after that food stall closed in December.

The yet-to-be-named stall aims to highlight the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Spain with recipes that have been passed through generations of Kaifer’s family. Patrons can expect a selection of tapas — meaning snacks or small plates — such as bocadillos (sandwiches), croquetas (ham & bechamel fritters) and patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce), as well as flan and other sweets.

“‘Tapas’ has become a bit overused in American culture, so we’re taking everyone back to the basics over shared bites and a sacred time to socialize with friends,” Kaifer says in the press release. “Optimist Hall is a true melting pot, and we felt it would be the perfect location to invite folks to learn about and enjoy the flavors I grew up with, and proudly share my mother’s recipes that have been passed down over the years…”

Click here to view the original publication via Charlotte Business Journal.