Elaia and Olio are opening in early November. The restaurant and wine bar, located at 1634 Tower Grove Ave., at the intersection of McRee Ave., have been highly anticipated for a number of reasons. Both are projects by well-respected chef-proprietor Ben Poremba, co-owner of Salume Beddu. Poremba has nabbed talented advanced sommelier Andrey Ivanov from 33 Wine Bar, knighted him GM and handed him the reins to work his wine magic. Another reason we’re watching Elaia and Olio? The adjoining venues – both located in historic buildings (a nearly century-old home and a former gas station) – may well be key components for urban renewal in the once blighted McRee Town neighborhood now known as Botanical Heights, particularly as Elaia and Olio will soon be joined by patisserie Chouquette, right across the street.
Olio will quietly open to the public this Friday, November 2, followed by Elaia on Sunday, November 11. When regular hours of operation commence on Tuesday, November 13, doors will be open at Elaia Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 to 10 p.m.; and at Olio Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
For an inside look at Elaia and Olio, visit our Facebook page.
— Photos by Michelle Volansky
This article appears in October 2012.