Daytona Grande

Newsy Nuggets: Trudnak goes Grande, Buffalo stops roaming, Rav Pig redo, and … the sparkling wine of beer?

SCOTT JOSEPH (Apr. 26, 2023)

Mike Trudnak, who earlier this month left Aurora at the Celeste, the restaurant he opened in 2020, has reemerged in Daytona Beach at the Daytona Grande. He started his new job as the executive chef for the oceanfront resort on Thursday. On Monday, his former executive sous chef and sous chef from Aurora will join him on the coast.

“We’re trying to bring that Aurora magic over here,” Trudnak said in a phone conversation on Wednesday.

Daytona GrandeNot that it’s going to be Aurora at the Grande. In fact, Trudnak hasn’t even decided yet what he’s going do with the menu for the property’s main restaurant, though he said he expects the cuisine will reflect the diversity of his kitchen staff.

The hotel, which has been open a year and a half, is the only hotel with walkup access from the beach, according to Trudnak.

As I told you recently in a not-very-blind item – seriously, you could have figured it out if I’d written it in Farsi (instead of my usual farcey) – Harry Buffalo is closing. It was originally expected to close at the end of March but apparently got an extension. Its last day will be Saturday.

With that closing, all of the restaurant spaces in Church Street Station on that side of street, including those that were recently held by Ceviche and Häos, will be vacant. That’s the design, is seems. The property owner has a plan for the building. What is it? He’s not talking.

If you’ve counted on Harry Buffalo for your downtown lunches, you may find a replacement soon at City Hall. The owner of Bem Bom in Audubon Park is taking over the space that was recently an outpost of 4 Rivers Smokehouse and will open City Beautiful Cafe, serving breakfast and lunch only. It will not have a Portuguese menu like Bem Bom but rather will have burgers, sandwiches and such. Ryan Lynch of Orlando Business Journal first reported on the new cafe.

The owners of Ravenous Pig want to make that Winter Park restaurant look like new. It will undergo a renovation with a redesign by Anna Woodman Interior Design of South Florida. The same firm did the original Rav Pig (where Reel Fish Coastal Kitchen is now) and Cask & Larder (where Ravenous Pig is now) as well as others in the line of properties owned by James and Julie Petrakis. According to James Petrakis, the renovations will be done in phases so that the restaurant can remain open.

Belgian beverage police recently destroyed thousands of cans of Miller High Life beer, and not because they’d tasted it. They were offended by the beer’s slogan – the Champagne of Beers – and decided to crush the cans before anyone confused the beer with sparkling wine.

France, and by extension the European Union, fiercely protects the Champagne designation. Only sparkling wines produced in the Champagne regions – and only those made using the methode champenoise – may have Champagne on the label.

Miller High Life does not use the methode champenoise and is not produced in France. Also, it’s a beer.

Miller has been using the slogan for more than a hundred years – it was originally the Champagne of Bottled Beers because it was produced in clear bottles and looked sparkling. But for some reason, no one in France or the European Union has noticed until .

Which begs the question: What Belgian ordered a delivery of 2,352 cans of Miller High Life in the first place? The shipment was headed for Germany, so…maybe it was a prank?

We hope you find our reviews and news articles useful and entertaining. It has always been our goal to assist you in making informed decisions when spending your dining dollars. If we’ve helped you in any way, please consider making a contribution to help us continue our journalism. Thank you.

About Anna Woodman Interior Design

Anna Woodman Interior Design (formerly Anna Schmidt Interior Design) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit annawoodmaninteriordesign.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Ela Curry Kitchen

Anna Woodman Interior Design completes work on Ela Curry Kitchen

Restaurant dining is about more than just having a delicious menu. Guests want the atmosphere of a space to transport them to a new place from the moment they walk in the door.

Ela Curry KitchenAt Ela Curry Kitchen, diners can expect to find a dynamic menu and a feast for the eyes. The 1,500-square-foot restaurant from celebrated Chef Pushkar Marathe will showcase refined and culturally-focused food from across India, offering guests fresh, daring flavors through street food and a Thali-style dining experience.

A bold menu requires equally bold design. Anna Woodman Interior Design gracefully designed the quaint space to compliment Chef Marathe’s vision.

A Thali-style meal promises a journey of flavors and textures, with all the courses and components of the meal being served at the same time on a large plate. Ela, which means cardamom in Sanskrit, was the jumping off point for Woodman’s design journey for the restaurant.

The prominent eat up bar overlooking the kitchen is a rich green, inspired by the restaurant’s namesake spice. Comforting warm white walls, terrazzo dining tables and classic black and cane chairs create a clean palette for the rest of the vibrant décor. A one-of-a-kind wall covering embedded with gold leaf, elegant brass lighting fixtures, hand-crafted tiles and wood carvings evoke the richness of Indian culture and cuisine. Brightly colored photographs of food and spices line the walls giving guests a taste of what’s to come.

Whether they choose to enjoy their meal al-fresco in the intimate outdoor area or in the main dining room, guests will have plenty to explore with both their palates and their eyes.

Woodman, who lives and works in Jupiter, was thrilled to work with Chef Marathe General Manager Andy Dugard again.

“Chef Marathe has a talent for creating menus that inspire guests to try dishes and explore new flavors they never have before. It’s an honor to create an atmosphere that encourages that kind of excitement from diners,” Woodman said. “I wanted to create a welcoming and exciting environment for Palm Beach Gardens locals to enjoy time and time again with something new to see every time they visit.”

This is Woodman’s second project with Chef Marathe and General Manager Andy Dugard, as she helped bring their Indian fusion restaurant, Stage, to life in 2020.

Woodman has worked with nationwide restaurant brands and upscale independent restaurants previously, including Ruth’s Chris, Seasons 52, Disney Springs’ Polite Pig and more.

Ela Curry Kitchen is located at 4650 Donald Ross Rd Unit #110 in Palm Beach Gardens and is scheduled to open by the end of August. The restaurant seats 43 people inside and 12 people in the outdoor dining area.

About Anna Woodman Interior Design

Anna Woodman Interior Design (formerly Anna Schmidt Interior Design) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit annawoodmaninteriordesign.com or call (407) 399-6808.

FLORIDA WEEKLY STAFF

Ela Curry Kitchen opens at Donald Ross Village

FLORIDA WEEKLY STAFF (Sep. 01, 2022)

FLORIDA WEEKLY STAFFIt’s been long awaited by fans of Indian cuisine.

Ela Curry Kitchen, chef Pushkar Marathe and partner Andy Dugard’s second restaurant, was set to open Aug. 30.

The restaurant, in The Shops of Donald Ross Village, will bring traditional Indian cuisine to space Coolinary Café vacated when it moved a few doors east.

Chef Marathe has been incorporating East Indian influences into his cooking since he opened Stage Kitchen & Bar in Palm Beach Gardens.

“Ela draws on all my experiences growing up in India and inspirations from family and friends, most significantly the traditional cooking of my mother and family,” Chef Marathe said in a statement. “Many of the dishes we are serving are prepared using techniques I learned from my mom, one of the best Indian cooks I know. This project is very close to my heart.”

The men initially had hoped to open a traditional Indian restaurant in the space that’s now Stage.

“We really liked the building, we really liked the landlord who didn’t think the area was ready for an Indian restaurant, so Stage Kitchen & Bar was born,” Mr. Dugard said in the statement. “Fast forward a bit, we became frequent diners at Tim’s (Lipman) Coolinary Café, which we love. When we learned they were moving, we knew we had a home for Ela Curry Kitchen.”

The chef said he follows the traditional way of serving the food, as well as preparing it — he uses the traditional thali, where multiple courses are presented on one platter.

As for that food, expect “chaate,” with Indian street snacks as pani puri, with beet, chickpea, tamarind and green juice, lentil fritters, or dahi bhalle, served with yogurt and tamarind chutney, a selection of curries, including his popular butter chicken, served memorably at Stage Kitchen.

And a selection of “not curries,” with masala lamb chops, salmon and tandoori chicken, as well as vegetarian options.

Chef Marathe and Mr. Dugard have partnered again with Bootleg Greg Cocktail Co. to develop the cocktail program for Ela, which will initially feature “Skandilicious” Shandy, Twisted Trunk Kolsch infused with fresh strawberry lemonade and fermented sake spirit; “Endless Weekend” Mojito, carbonated blackberry Soto Junmai sake with mint, basil, freshly squeezed lime juice, and cane sugar; and “Butterfly Effect” Mocktail, butterfly pea flower-flavored carbonated lemonade.

Beer from local partners Twisted Trunk Brewery and Civil Society Brewery will be offered, as well as Indian beers Taj Mahal and Kingfisher.

Interior Designer Anna Woodman, who designed Stage Kitchen & Bar in 2020, created a space with warm white walls, terrazzo dining tables and seating for 28 in classic black and cane chairs create a clean palette for the vibrant décor. The prominent eat-at bar is a rich green, inspired by the restaurant’s namesake spice (“Ela” is Sanskrit for “cardamom”) and is flanked by 15 counter seats overlooking the open kitchen. Outside, seating for 12 provides a casual setting for diners choosing to go al fresco.

Ela Curry Kitchen will serve dinner 4-9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with lunch service coming in the fall. It’s at 4650 Donald Ross Road, Suite 110, Palm Beach Gardens; www.elacurrykitchen.com.

About Anna Woodman Interior Design

Anna Woodman Interior Design (formerly Anna Schmidt Interior Design) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit annawoodmaninteriordesign.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Restaurant news

Restaurant news: Buzzy new Indian ‘curry kitchen’ opens in Palm Beach Gardens

Liz Balmaseda, Palm Beach Post (Aug.27, 2022) – The highly anticipated, classic Indian restaurant by Stage Kitchen chef Pushkar Marathe, opens Tuesday in Palm Beach Gardens.

Restaurant newsOne might say the Ela Curry Kitchen concept has been a sensation even before its debut. When Marathe announced preview pop-ups featuring Ela’s menu at Stage in recent weeks, the events sold out within hours.

Some cool things to know about Ela:

  • The inspiration.Named after the Sanskrit word for cardamom, Ela is an ode to Marathe’s travels throughout his native India. The son of an Indian Air Force radar technician, Marathe explored his homeland’s diverse mix of cultures and flavors as his family moved to new bases in new states. He draws inspiration from those years as well as from his time in college and his visits to neighborhoods and homes that were strikingly different from his family’s Hindu, vegetarian household. 

“What I learned is that the true Indian food lies within the households of India,” Marathe says. “What I’m doing is taking inspiration from the food I learned by eating at my neighbors’, friends’ and family’s houses. This is my interpretation of the food I loved as I traveled throughout the country.”

  • The food. The menu lists Indian street snacks (“chaat”), nine types of curry dishes, various “not curry” dishes, breads, rice dishes, chutneys and other condiments, plus a thali-style tasting menu. That tasting menu features the traditional thali fashion, in which dinner courses are presented as multiple components on a large serving plate. While most entrees are served thali style, the special tasting menu is an option that’s offered for the entire table for $65 per person.

Menu highlights include lentil fritters with yogurt, tamarind chutney and crispy sev noodles (dahi vada), Kerala beef short rib with curry leaves, star anise and coconut oil, masala lamb chops with tamarind, goda masala, cashews, raisins and chives, tandoori chicken with cilantro chutney, mint and red onion, and desserts such as karanji pastry stuffed with coconut, mango, jaggery and ghee. 

  • The space. Marathe and his Stage business partner, Andy Dugard (former general manager at Buccan Palm  Beach), transformed the original Coolinary Café location at The Shops of Donald Ross Village plaza in northern Palm Beach Gardens.

Ela Curry KitchenThat space had become available when chef Tim  Lipman merged his acclaimed café with his bar, The Parched Pig, to create a larger restaurant simply called Coolinary.

The Ela partners and interior designer Anna Woodman gave the space a look that’s both regal and relaxed. Terrazzo dining tables and black cane chairs are set by a beautifully textured accent wall that’s done in smoky blue-gray with shimmering gold touches. 

The intimate space offers seating for 28 at the indoor tables, 15 at the indoor bar/counter and a dozen or more at Ela’s sidewalk tables. 

Location: 4650 Donald Ross Road, Suite 110 in the The Shops of Donald Ross Village, Palm Beach Gardens, 561-345-2196, ElaCurryKitchen.com

Hours: Ela opens at 4 p.m. Tuesday (Aug. 30) and will serve dinner Tuesdays through Sundays from 4 to 9 p.m. Lunch service is planned for fall.

Reservations: They’re strongly encouraged and can be made via Ela’s website or by phone.

About Anna Woodman Interior Design

Anna Woodman Interior Design (formerly Anna Schmidt Interior Design) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit annawoodmaninteriordesign.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Orlando Polite Pig Restaurant

Anna Woodman Interior Design can refresh and revitalize any restaurant

One of Anna Schmidt Interior Design’s specialties is restaurants. From trendy independent eateries to your favorite nationwide brands, we have years of experience creating top-tier concepts. A few of our standout projects include Stage in Palm Beach Gardens, The Polite Pig at Disney Springs, Cask & Larder at the Orlando International Airport and various Ruth’s Chris Steak House locations. Is your restaurant due for a refresh or are you working on a new concept? Anna Schmidt Interior Design can bring your vision to life!
restaurant interior design
Anna Woodman Interior Design transforms outdoor spaces

Anna Woodman Interior Design transforms outdoor spaces

All over the country, businesses are getting creative in ways to safely serve their guests. One of the largest trends we’re seeing right now is an increase in outdoor spaces. From restaurants to lounges to entertainment areas, the need for an open space outside is crucial. Is your business interested in re-imaging or creating a unique outdoor space? Anna Schmidt Interior Design can bring your vision to life!

Anna Woodman Interior Design completes work on Stage

JUPITER, Fla. (Feb. 18, 2020) – When diners step into the newly opened Stage, they’ll be transported—but they might not be sure exactly where.

That’s part of the vision for the modern small-plates eatery, opened Friday on the famed PGA Boulevard. The concept (pronounced “staahj”) is the latest from celebrated Chef Pushkar Marathe, who was inspired by the combination of his Indian roots and extensive global travels.

Interior Designer Anna Schmidt helped translate that vision into the look of the space, featuring colorful global touches throughout her design.

Schmidt’s design works to mimic hints of what diners will see on their plates at Stage. While Marathe’s food has been celebrated at his past concepts, he has said the menu will be anything but stuffy. In fact, the restaurant takes its name from the lowest, most humble position in a kitchen.

The feel of Stage, too, is decidedly approachable. Rich blues, navy and dark gray flow through the space, met with touches of black iron and distressed wood. Exposed brick gives off an air of comfort. A warm, natural floor continues the vibe, and plush sofas and leather chairs in the entry welcome guests. Even so, copper accents—in particular, stunning copper lighting throughout—add a hint of polish.

Greenery throughout the space, as well as spice displays, hint at tastes soon to dance over diners’ palates.

Schmidt, who lives and works in Jupiter, said the project was a dream come true.

“Chef Marathe and General Manager Andy Dugard had an incredible vision for this concept. Being able to take that and help complete the atmosphere with this design is exactly why I love what I do,” Schmidt said. “Being able to do this right in my own backyard, in Palm Beach Gardens, and to help bring this great concept to our community was an added bonus.”

Schmidt has worked with nationwide restaurant brands and upscale independent restaurants previously, including Ruth’s Chris, Seasons 52, Disney Springs’ Polite Pig and more.

To view high resolution photos of Stage, click here.

For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com.

About Anna Schmidt Interior Design

Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Anna Woodman Interior Design selected for work on Free the Cork Wine Bar

TAMPA, Fla. (Oct. 18, 2019) – Anna Schmidt Interior Design has been selected for work on Free the Cork Wine Bar, a wine tasting and small plates restaurant coming to Sparkman Wharf, Tampa’s transformational Water Street Tampa neighborhood.

Anna Schmidt, of Anna Schmidt Interior Design, has been selected for work on Free the Cork Wine Bar at Sparkman Wharf.

Free the Cork Wine Bar, scheduled to open spring 2020, is the new hotspot for Sparkman Wharf’s office tenants, visitors and the Tampa community as a whole. The restaurant is located at 615 Channelside Drive on the ground floor of Sparkman Wharf. Overlooking views of a scenic park and dining garden, it will serve as a place for friends and family to gather around, and share over amazing small plates or glass of wine.

Anna Schmidt will blend this concept of fellowship with city influences, bringing the project to life with a high-end industrial, yet chic, design.

Project highlights include:

  • The wine bar is over 4,000 square feet and will seat approximately 142 people throughout the bar, dining and patio areas.
  • Striking concrete elements and industrial millwork will be seen throughout the space, creating a sleek city vibe.
  • Sparkling glass chandeliers hanging across the restaurant will add elegance to the refined yet edgy interiors.

The large, central bar will serve as the hub of this project. Featuring suspended ceilings, rustic details and surrounded by plush barstools, this space will invite guests to sit back and relax, sharing good eats and worldly wines.

In addition to the stunning bar and lounge area, there will also be a private room perfect for holding events, wine tastings and special wine-pairing dinners. A “grab and go” window will be installed to offer options like wines by the glass, European sandwiches, cheese and charcuterie and coffee to the busy Tampa residents or people wishing to stroll along the Riverwalk. For those who like to see the sunset and feel the breeze off the water, patio dining is available. All of these features will keep in line with the clean, stylish finishes throughout the wine bar, tying in elements used elsewhere in the project.

“It’s an honor to be chosen to design Free the Cork Wine Bar,” said Schmidt. “Sparkman Wharf is a beautiful destination in downtown Tampa, just steps from the waterfront. I’m looking forward to creating a chic industrial design in this area and can’t wait for everyone to see the finished project.  I’m also pleased to be working with BCA Architecture of Orlando and Interstruct Commercial Construction of Tampa, two amazing professional teams in the industry.”

Free the Cork Wine Bar is just one of the many incredible projects Strategic Property Partners has brought to downtown Tampa. The company aims to elevate the city’s national prominence, all while incorporating principles such as sustainability, connectivity, walkability, design quality and wellness.

Anna Schmidt Interior Design is based in Jupiter, Fla.

For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com.

About Anna Schmidt Interior Design

Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

About Strategic Property Partners

Strategic Property Partners, LLC (“SPP”) is a partnership between Cascade Investment LLC, and Jeff Vinik. SPP is a full-service commercial real estate development firm focused on world-class execution, innovation, and creating high-quality and experiential places. SPP’s first project, Water Street Tampa, is being developed on over 50 acres of contiguous waterfront land the company controls in downtown Tampa. The phased Water Street Tampa development project is revitalizing a currently underutilized tract of land into an urban, mixed-use waterfront district consisting of approximately 9 million square feet of new commercial, residential, hospitality, cultural, entertainment, education, and retail uses, totaling over $3 billion in private investment from SPP. Integrating principles of walkability, sustainability, connectivity, design quality, and wellness, SPP is developing and will own and operate this new world-class neighborhood in in Tampa, while also working to elevate the city’s national prominence. For more information on Water Street Tampa, visit www.waterstreettampa.com.

Hard Rock Design

Hard Rock Café Miami sings new tune with design refresh by Anna Woodman Interior Design

MIAMI, Fla. (June 27, 2019) – Located right on Biscayne Bay, the Hard Rock Café has long been a go-to spot for dining and music in Miami. Now, the restaurant has a whole new look.hard-rock-design

Designer Anna Schmidt, of Anna Schmidt Interior Design, completed an interior refresh of the Miami landmark to match the city’s vibrant energy while staying true to the iconic Hard Rock brand.

Design highlights include: The refresh included more than 8,000 square feet of dining space and nearly 1,000 square feet of retail space. The design focused on incorporating the brand’s musical elements while making it unique to Miami—one of the brand’s most popular locations.

  • A chain drapery depicting Miami resident DJ Khaled greeting guests in the hostess area
  • A backdrop wall with brass cymbals on display, along with vibrant Hard Rock signage
  • A modern, striking bar and backbar, replacing the venue’s historic guitar-shaped bar

The entire indoor space was painted, and new wood-look floors were installed throughout. The space also features new seating, including feature banquettes, and a new bar lounge.

Guests can enjoy the indoor dining space, which seats about 340, or take in the views from the outdoor patio, which seats about 150.

One of the challenges of this project, Schmidt said, was accommodating the foot traffic of the restaurant. Because the Miami location is so popular, Schmidt kept durability in mind throughout the design process, choosing furnishings, décor and textiles that could withstand heavy use, all while keeping the style consistent with the design.

“It was an honor to work on such an iconic property here in Miami and with this worldwide brand,” Schmidt said. “Blending the two made this project so fun. I love the results and know guests will too!”

Anna Schmidt Interior Design has worked with many nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants across the country. Notable projects the firm has completed include Disney Springs’ Polite Pig, Cocina 214 in Winter Park and Cask & Larder in the Orlando International Airport.

Anna Schmidt Interior Design is based in Jupiter, Fla.

For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com.

About Anna Schmidt Interior Design

Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Stage

Anna Woodman Interior Design selected for work on Stage

Anna Schmidt Interior Design selected for work on Stage

South Florida commercial designer contracted for new restaurant
in Palm Beach Gardens

JUPITER, Fla. (Feb. 4, 2019) – Anna Schmidt Interior Design, South Florida’s premiere commercial interior design firm, has been commissioned to design an acclaimed Miami chef’s latest project.

ANNA SCHMIDT, OF ANNA SCHMIDT INTERIOR DESIGN, HAS BEEN SELECTED FOR WORK ON STAGE.

The renowned Chef Pushkar Marathe is opening Stage (pronounced “staahj”), a modern small-plates restaurant in Palm Beach Gardens. The eatery will offer fresh bites inspired by Marathe’s Indian background combined with global influences from his travels. The food, drink and service will all be impressive, but the concept aims for an approachable vibe.

Anna Schmidt will be a big part of delivering that through the design.  To mimic Stage’s offerings, Schmidt will take inspiration from the chef’s travels, delivering an eclectic global feel. Hints of the eatery’s flavorful ingredients will be woven into the design in
creative ways as well.

To deliver on the decidedly un-stuffy atmosphere, Schmidt is planning a bar-centric focus with comfortable lounge seating. Throughout the restaurant, there will be several dining environments, such as seating at the Chef’s line and versatile larger party seating. A patio promises to be popular, offering guests a unique outdoor dining experience.  Anna Schmidt will be a big part of delivering that through the design.  To mimic Stage’s offerings, Schmidt will take inspiration from the chef’s travels, delivering an eclectic global feel. Hints of the eatery’s flavorful ingredients will be woven into the design in creative ways as well.

Finally, to celebrate the culinary talent at the restaurant, the show-stopping open kitchen will be on display to diners.

“Design is such an important part of delivering on a restaurant’s concept,” Schmidt said. “I’m thrilled to be working closely with Chef Marathe and General Manager Andy Dugard to fully execute their vision in a beautiful and memorable way at Stage.”

Stage is on track to open fall 2019 is a space on the renowned PGA Boulevard.

Anna Schmidt Interior Design has worked with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants across the country. A few notable projects the firm has completed include Seasons 52, various Ruth’s Chris locations, Disney Springs’ Polite Pig, Cocina 214 and Cask & Larder in the Orlando International Airport.

Anna Schmidt Interior Design is based in Jupiter, Fla.

For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com.

About Anna Schmidt Interior Design

Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Media Contact:

Will Wellons
Wellons Communications
407-339-0879
will@wellonscommunications.com

 

 

Cask & Larder Beer Taps

Anna Woodman project named among best airport dining in North America

Often, travelers want to get an authentic taste of their destination. At Orlando International Airport, visitors have one of the best chances to do that in all of North America.

Credit: Gary Bogdon Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport was ranked No. 3 on USA TODAY’s list of Best Airport Local/Regional Dining.

Cask & Larder’s OIA location, designed by Anna Schmidt, was recently ranked No. 3 among the Top 10 Airport Local/Regional Dining in North America by USA TODAY.

Cask & Larder, which was a popular destination in Winter Park, was tapped to bring its local flavor to OIA’s Terminal 2 in 2015. A project of James Beard-nominated chefs James and Julie Petrakis, it serves up farm-to-table fare, signature drinks and beer.

But though the food gives diners a taste of Orlando, the design also helps transport them away from the terminal. Renowned restaurant and commercial interior designer Anna Schmidt drew on sustainable and natural elements to bring the restaurant’s theme to life.

The eatery incorporates wood and pops of sky blue and red. Wooden fencing and lush greenery serve to separate the space from the rest of the terminal, and at the center of it all is a huge oak tree with lighted lanterns and reclaimed jars hanging from its boughs.

The airport location of Cask & Larder opened late last year. The team worked closely with Johnny Rivers of Inglur, Inc. and Peter Amaro, Jr., CEO of Master ConcessionAir, LLC (MCA) to bring the concept to the OIA terminal.

The project’s architect was BCA Architecture, and the general contractor was Gomez Construction.

To compile the top 10 listing, USA TODAY worked with Airport Revenue News, which had industry experts vet and nominate 15 finalists. USA TODAY’s 10Best readers then had four weeks to vote daily.

Cask & Larder beat out airport restaurants around the country, including those at Los Angeles International Airport, Boston Logan International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International and Denver International Airport.

To see the full listing, visit http://www.10best.com/awards/travel/best-airport-local-regional-dining-2017/.

Eco Design

Eco design brings spaces to life

One of the topics I am finding more often with current clients is their desire to incorporate some “life” into their projects.

They are requesting products and spaces with eco-friendly components much more now than ever before. Natural and organic materials such as cork, river rocks, natural woods, and stone are drawing notice, and the more live plants the better. Not only does live greenery bring vibrancy into a space, but the oxygen releasing components of live plants nurture our health and well-being.

Being a huge lover of the outdoors, I don’t find myself resisting! Keep an eye out for ways nature is being embedded into the newest spaces you encounter.

Cask & Larder Market

Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport

Anna Schmidt adds upscale touch to Cask & Larder’s Orlando International Airport location

Design embodies restaurant’s farm-to-table concept

ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 29, 2016) – From the rich wood features and upholstery accents to the huge oak tree adorned with glowing lights towering overhead, nothing about the Cask & Larder’s new location makes you think of rushing through the airport to catch a flight.

Credit: Gary Bogdon Designer – Anna Schmidt incorporated Cask & Larder’s farm-to-table concept into the restaurant’s design with sustainable and natural elements, such as reclaimed wood, lush greenery and a large oak tree adorned with reclaimed jars and lanterns.

In fact, renowned restaurant and commercial interior designer Anna Schmidt selected each element to transport diners away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando International Airport and give them a taste of Orlando.

Cask & Larder, a popular Winter Park destination since 2012, was tapped to bring its local flavor to OIA’s Terminal 2 last year. Cask & Larder is the project of James Beard-nominated chefs James and Julie Petrakis, who are also behind several other concepts, including Winter Park’s Ravenous Pig and Disney Springs’ Polite Pig.

The team worked closely with Johnny Rivers of Inglur, Inc. and Peter Amaro, Jr., CEO of Master ConcessionAir, LLC (MCA), to deliver the farm to terminal experience. MCA presently operates four retail locations in pre-security OIA and is partnered with Johnny Rivers to operate two Johnny Rivers’ Grill & Market locations, also housed at OIA’s Terminal 2. MCA has over 18 years of airport experience with over 100 food and beverage and retail locations in seven U.S. airports.

The OIA location is meant to offer diners a true foodie experience with dishes inspired by Cask & Larder’s original concept, as well as quick-serve options and signature drinks and beer. Schmidt designed Cask & Larder’s original Winter Park location, as well.

As with the original location, Schmidt aimed to mirror the restaurant’s farm-to-table concept in her design at OIA, which draws on sustainable and natural elements.

The main restaurant area incorporates reclaimed wood and pops of sky blue and red. Wooden fencing and lush greenery also provide a sense of escape. Diners can choose from a variety of table styles, including banquettes, singles seating, rustic communal tables, or a bar that offers views of the kitchen.

At the center of the design is a large oak tree with lighted lanterns and reclaimed jars hanging from its boughs.

Schmidt continued the theme into Cask & Larder Provisions, which offers travelers quick options such as paninis and sandwiches. The area includes a lighted wooden trellis that mimics the tree’s branches, as well as reclaimed wood shelves for products and an antique chalkboard to display specials.

Finally, the location includes a bar, which picks up touches of the restaurant’s greenery and includes antique painted door panels and wooden keg displays.

“This was a wonderful opportunity to draw from Cask & Larder’s concept but do something new,” Schmidt said. “I loved being able to create something that will both catch travelers’ eyes and give them a taste of the local area.”

Cask & Larder’s new location replaced Kafe Kalik and Au Bon Pain in Terminal 2 and extends into what was formerly a runway observatory.

Anna Schmidt Interior Design has worked with a number of national restaurants and companies, including Olive Garden, Seasons 52, Red Lobster, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Ruby Tuesday and FOX Sports Grill.

For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com.

For high resolution images of this project, visit http://bit.ly/2fOZILQ.

About Anna Schmidt Interior Design

Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces.  For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Media Contact:

Will Wellons
Wellons Communications
407-339-0879
will@wellonscommunications.com

Anna Woodman selected to design The Polite Pig at Disney Springs

The Polite Pig

Design of new 5,000-square-foot restaurant will take inspiration from local flavor

Orlando, Fla. (August 25, 2016) – Renowned restaurant and commercial interior designer Anna Schmidt has been selected to create the look and feel of The Polite Pig, a new 5,000-square-foot restaurant at Disney Springs.
The Polite Pig is the next project from husband-and-wife chefs James and Julie Petrakis, who developed the popular eatery The Ravenous Pig in Winter Park, Florida. The pair will work on the restaurant with James’ brother, Brian, who owns and operates the Orlando restaurant Greens & Grille. Schmidt has previously worked with the Petrakis family to design their widely acclaimed Winter Park, Florida, restaurants Cask & Larder and The Ravenous Pig. Schmidt has also completed the design for their newest Cask & Larder location at Orlando International Airport, which will open this fall.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to work with the Petrakis family again,” Schmidt said. “Their creativity in the kitchen knows no bounds, and I can’t wait to help bring their vision to life for visitors from all over the world to enjoy at Disney Springs.”
The Polite Pig, which is scheduled to open in spring 2017, will feature wood-fired and smoked and grilled items, as well as fresh seasonal sides. It will also serve beer, wine, cocktails and house-made sodas and lemonades.
Schmidt plans to play on the restaurant’s fare and theme in her design. She will incorporate vibrant colors and wood tones to complement the wood-fired items and crisp, light finishes to showcase the fresh seasonal fare. Hints of days gone by will be captured in the furnishings and worn brick walls throughout, while elements of surprise will remind guests of the ingenuity of the founders’ culinary talents.
The Polite Pig will be located in Town Center at Disney Springs. The 5,000-square-foot space will accommodate about 200 guests, and the restaurant will be open daily. Gomez Construction is leading the project, and HHCP Architects and Anna Schmidt are working to develop the architecture and interiors, respectively. Lure Graphic Design will spearhead branding efforts.
Schmidt has also worked with a number of other national restaurants and companies, including First Watch, Olive Garden, Seasons 52, Red Lobster, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Ruby Tuesday and FOX Sports Grill.
About Anna Schmidt Interior Design
Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces. For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Media Contact:
Will Wellons
Wellons Communications
407-339-0879
will@wellonscommunications.com

Anna Woodman named interior designer for new Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport

Anna Woodman named interior designer for new Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport

Schmidt joining forces with Cask & Larder to deliver a homegrown experience at new location

Orlando, Fla. (12-01-2015) – Anna Schmidt, a renowned restaurant and commercial interior designer, has been selected to oversee a new Cask & Larder location coming to Orlando International Airport in 2016.

Conceptual Rendering – Cask & Larder at Orlando International Airport (Credit: Anna Schmidt Interior Design)

Anna Schmidt has been a successful force behind a variety of commercial and hospitality design projects, including Winter Park’s popular Cask & Larder. Schmidt brilliantly captured the essence of the Cask & Larder brand for its flagship location in 2012, making her firm a natural selection when the restaurant’s farm-to-table concept was tapped to bring local flavor to Orlando International Airport. The new location will be a more mainstream version of its Winter Park counterpart, with the same homegrown elements and inviting atmosphere.

Schmidt joins Cask & Larder’s James and Julie Petrakis in the ambitious facelift of Orlando International Airport’s edible offerings. The team, which includes BCA Architecture, will work closely with Johnny Rivers of Inglur, Inc. and Peter Amaro, Jr., CEO of Master ConcessionAir, LLC (MCA), to deliver a farm to terminal experience. MCA presently operates four retail locations in pre-security OIA and is partnered with Johnny Rivers currently operating two Johnny Rivers’ Grill & Market locations, also housed at OIA’s Terminal 2. MCA has over 18 years of airport experience with over 100 food and beverage and retail locations, in seven different US airports.

Set to open late summer or early fall of next year, the airport Cask & Larder will replace Kafe Kalik and Au Bon Pain, in Airside Terminal 2. It will extend through an area currently serving as a runway observatory, which will become the new Cask & Larder’s bar. The bar will feature familiar signature drinks and Cask & Larder crafted beer.

Anna Schmidt Interior Design has worked with a number of other national restaurants and companies, including First Watch, Olive Garden, Smokey Bones, Seasons 52, Red Lobster, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Ruby Tuesday and FOX Sports Grill.

About Anna Schmidt Interior Design

Anna Schmidt Interior Design (formerly Schmidt Design Studio, Inc.) is a professional interior design firm with an exceptional reputation built over the years through the design of one-of-a-kind spaces and strong client relationships. Established in 2003 and based in Jupiter, Fla., the firm has worked extensively with nationwide brands, franchises and upscale independent restaurants throughout the country, as well as many corporate and commercial spaces. Our mission is to create functional and beautiful places in which to work while delivering outstanding design and valuable service for each and every project.  For more information, visit www.annaschmidtinteriors.com or call (407) 399-6808.

Media Contact:

Will Wellons
Wellons Communications
407-339-0879
will@wellonscommunications.com

The Story of Cask & Larder

When James and Julie Petrakis approached me to design their second restaurant, Cask & Larder, I was thrilled to begin a quest that would turn into one of the hottest restaurants in Winter Park, FL.  Their sister restaurant, The Ravenous Pig just down the street, was my first start at working with the husband and wife team years prior and is as equally as popular as it’s younger sibling.  Calling themselves a “Southern Public House”, Cask & Larder paid tribute to this legacy by creating a congenial neighborhood

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Urban Winery Makes Its Mark

winery-designOwners Jill Ramsier and David Forrester had a vision – to create a winery and wine tasting environment in Orlando that would transport wine to markets and ultimately the consumer in an environmentally friendly way.  Thus, Quantum Leap Winery was born.  The project was very special in that the 17,000 SF warehouse space would not only hold its very own winery, but its own wine tasting room and a VIP area within the winery itself for special events.  The Quantum Leap Winery model was to search for good quality, sustainably grown wine, wherever it is around the world but to transport it in large vessels to the Orlando winery. Continue reading