Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry and wife Ayesha Curry are partnering to bring three restaurants to the Ritz-Carlton in Charlotte, according to the Charlotte Observer. The Currys are collaborating with award-winning American chef and restaurateur Michael Mina, founder of the Mina Group.
Ayesha Curry’s Sweet July Café will lead the openings with a projected July debut. The menu features smoothies, in-house pastries such as croissants, cakes, cookies and rolls, and healthy snack options inspired by California farmers-market cuisine. Sweet July already operates a location at the Regent Hotels in Santa Monica and will introduce menu items influenced by Ayesha Curry’s Jamaican heritage. “Sweet July has always been rooted in community and creating spaces where people feel genuinely welcomed,” Ayesha Curry said.
Bourbon Steak, led by Mina, is slated for a winter opening. According to the restaurant’s website, the concept will introduce Charlotte to a modern American steakhouse rooted in timeless technique and luxurious hospitality, with offerings that include high-end steaks, shrimp cocktail selections and a Caviar Parfait.
The Eighth Rule, created by Stephen Curry in partnership with Mina and already operating in San Francisco, also aims for a winter opening. The concept specializes in cocktails — including Gentlemen’s Cut Bourbon — along with wines, beers, luxury liquors and a food selection featuring the Warriors guard’s signature “Stephen’s Chicken Tendies.” “The Eighth Rule has always been about creating an experience that brings people together for community and conversation, while enjoying elevated food and drink offerings,” Stephen Curry said. “Expanding to Charlotte is especially exciting because it’s a city that not only holds a special place in mine and my family’s heart, but it’s filled with incredible energy and culture.”
The restaurant projects mark a return for Stephen Curry to his childhood region; he was raised in Charlotte while his father, Dell Curry, spent 10 seasons with the Charlotte Hornets from 1989 to 1999. Ayesha Curry has published two cookbooks, The Seasoned Life (2016) and The Full Plate (2020), and previously hosted Ayesha’s Home Kitchen on the Food Network. Curry is coming off his 17th season with the Warriors, averaging 26.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 4.7 assists.
