In the heart of Jupiter, a culinary masterpiece is in the making as Fondu Hospitality, led by seasoned restaurateur Steven Fondu, gears up to launch its newest venture – Ara. Set to open its doors early next year, Ara promises to be a gastronomic haven with a touch of the Mediterranean, featuring a kitchen commanded by none other than French Laundry alum Kayla Casale.
Nestled at 1406 Cypress Drive, the 3,800-square-foot restaurant is more than a space; it’s a canvas where culinary excellence meets thoughtful design. Boasting seating for 125 people, a chef’s table, and a well-appointed bar, Ara is poised to become a culinary destination that fuses exquisite flavors with a captivating ambiance.
Behind the artistry of Ara’s interiors is the talent of Anna Woodman Interior Design, a Jupiter-based firm renowned for its prowess in shaping hospitality spaces. The melding of aesthetics and functionality promises an immersive dining experience that goes beyond the palate.
What adds a unique flavor to this endeavor is the backstory of the property itself. The restaurant space, acquired for $1.9 million in August, found a new owner in retired Major League Baseball pro Frank Seminara. His journey from the baseball field to Morgan Stanley and now to the world of culinary investments echoes the diverse narratives converging in Palm Beach County.
For Steven Fondu, Ara marks his debut as a restaurant owner. Having previously served as the assistant general manager at Stage Kitchen & Bar in Palm Beach Gardens, Fondu brings a wealth of experience and a passion for culinary excellence to the forefront. His journey from bartender to restaurant owner reflects a dedication to the craft that goes beyond the expected.
At the helm of Ara’s kitchen is Kayla Casale, a distinguished alum of the renowned French Laundry and a culinary artist whose previous experiences include establishments like Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill and Eiffel Tower in Las Vegas. Casale’s stint at the French Laundry during the height of pandemic restrictions adds a layer of culinary resilience to Ara, promising patrons an extraordinary dining experience.
Ara is more than a restaurant; it symbolizes the dynamic culinary landscape that Palm Beach County is fast becoming. With luminaries like Thomas Keller also making their mark on the county, the gastronomic transformation fueled by the influx of Northeasterners and Californians continues to unfold.
As Ara prepares to enchant taste buds and elevate dining experiences, it stands as a testament to the evolving culinary scene in Jupiter and the broader canvas of Palm Beach County. The anticipation for this Mediterranean gem is palpable, and Ara’s arrival promises to be a delectable chapter in the gastronomic journey of South Florida.
Article for reference: https://therealdeal.com/miami/2023/12/01/french-laundry-alum-kayla-casale-to-helm-jupiter-restaurant/
