EpiCentre News and Press

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Enso Celebrates its Anniversary in Style
Sushi demonstrations and nude sushi models highlight special event

Charlotte, NC (September 8, 2010) – Enso Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar will celebrate its one year anniversary by saying “thank you” to its customers next Thursday, September 16 at EpiCentre in uptown Charlotte.

In addition to its flavorful sushi, seafood and signature entrees, Enso will present traditional Asian entertainment, including sushi demonstrations and nude sushi models.

Anyone who makes a reservation for that evening will receive a complimentary dessert, as well as champagne or sparking cider for a special anniversary Kanpai, which is a common Japanese toast. There is limited seating available for this special event; reservations are now being accepted by calling 704-716-ENSO (3676) or online at EnsoCharlotte.com.

“We are very thankful to the Charlotte community for a successful first year,” says Colin Jones, Enso General Manager. “Without our loyal customers, we wouldn’t be as successful as we are. We hope to see some familiar faces – and some new one’s – here at Enso next week to help us celebrate.”

Enso Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar is a destination to dine, drink, and delight located in the heart of uptown Charlotte at EpiCentre. Part bistro, part lounge, part meeting place, Enso has something for everyone. Every detail from the menu to the lavish, yet understated, interior design to the soothing beats of down-tempo music has been painstakingly selected for a reason; to create a warm, vibrant, and welcoming environment. From the exotic flavors offered on the menu to its contemporary, elegant design and decor, Enso is a feast for the senses.

For additional information on Enso visit #mce_temp_url#EnsoCharlotte.com or follow Enso on Twitter at twitter.com/ensocharlotte.

Contact: Sammy Eanes, WhirlWind Creative, mobile: 540-525-0864, sammy@whirlwind-creative.com

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Filed under: News, Press Releases by The EpiCentre

The Margarita Revolution is Coming to Vida
Win tickets to the Skinny unveiling September 18

Charlotte, NC (September 8, 2010) – Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina is changing the way Charlotte looks at margaritas by introducing The Skinny, Vida’s low caloric version of the classic margarita.

The average margarita served in restaurants checks in upwards of 300-350 calories, while The Skinny at Vida is made with simple, fresh ingredients and weighs in around 100 calories. Vida will unveil its Skinny Margarita Saturday, September 18 during the Vida First Look Celebration. The First Look Celebration is an invitation only event, but Vida will be giving away tickets leading up to September 18 to members of The Good Life Club.

The Good Life Club is Vida’s members only dining club, which is free to join. Club members will receive complimentary guacamole prepared tableside on their first visit to Vida, as well as special offers to help commemorate birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions. Members will also be the first to know about the latest happenings at Vida, including new dishes, special events and promotions. Application for membership in The Good Life Club is available online at VidaCantina.com.

“We want to serve our guests a cocktail that’s not only refreshing, but a healthier option as well,” says Sean O’Brien, Vida Operating Partner. “The Skinny at Vida has the authentic margarita taste you love, without all the calories.”

Vida will host its Grand Opening Celebration on Thursday, September 30 on the main level of EpiCentre, 210 East Trade Street, in uptown Charlotte. Reservations are now being accepted for the Grand Opening Celebration online at VidaCantina.com or by calling the restaurant at 704-971-8432

Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina is Center City Charlotte’s first Mexican restaurant and tequila bar offering traditional, regional and contemporary cuisine in the heart of the vibrant uptown scene at EpiCentre. At Vida, bold, deliciously unexpected flavors are presented with refreshing style, alongside signature “Skinny Margaritas,” handcrafted cocktails and an extensive list of tequilas. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, specialty Mexican fare, hospitality and impeccable service, Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina offers a distinctive experience for its guests. Vida is evolved Mexican cuisine.

For additional information on Vida visit www.VidaCantina.com, connect with them on Facebook at facebook.com/VidaCantina or follow Vida on Twitter at twitter.com/vidacantina.

Contact: Sammy Eanes, Full House Productions, office: 704-936-5648, mobile: 540-525-0864, seanes@fhp-usa.com

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Filed under: News, Press Releases by The EpiCentre

Dear Pavilion, Suite, EpiCentre, Revolution, 

In the past few weeks, you have Rocked my Republic and Soaked my Sunday. I am delightfully impressed.

 Although I am a lover of all things Epi, I must admit that I was skeptical about both events; you took a risk, and it paid off big time. Let’s start with SOAK. Although I knew the event would serve as a staycation, I had no idea that Pavilion would completely transform itself into a believable Miami-esque poolside party, complete with pools, turf, cabanas and even champagne fights!? Delicious! I’m still hearing people talk about the event, and rumor is that there will be a follow up. (Stay tuned!)

Now let’s move on to Rock the Republic, presented by Revolution and Suite. I wondered how a rooftop fashion show in Charlotte would turn out, especially since several of the event organizers were (and still are) straight guys. When I think “anticipated fashion event,” a fashion show in Charlotte is not what I have in mind, unless I am watching Sex and the City.

 Again, I was proven wrong. Rock the Republic was lively, exciting, ambitious, and packed with some of the most diverse – and best dressed – people that I have seen in Charlotte. (FYI: I headed up to the event after cheering for LSU at the SEC Party held at StrikeCity, so I was underdressed in a tank and flip flops to say the least.)

 The event’s execution was flawless from the music by DJ Five to the models’ seductive and slightly sadistic walks. The hair, makeup, and clothing were cohesive, innovative, and had me craving a new super hot pair of Rock and Republic jeans and a bump it to create big messy model hair. I am delightfully pleased to say that event was a staycation in its own right.

 Final Thought: Two weeks. Two Staycations. EpiCentre is bringing diverse events to Charlotte and giving us a culture of our own.

 Sincerely,

 Natalie @EpiLite

 PS: For your enjoyment, I have attached some of my favorite pictures from both events with commentary of course!

Filed under: @EpiLite by Natalie Hymel

Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina Announces Grand Opening Date
Evolved Mexican Cuisine is coming to uptown Charlotte

Charlotte, NC (September 1, 2010) – Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina will hold its Grand Opening Celebration Thursday, September 30, according to Operating Partner Sean O’Brien and Executive Chef Chris Swinyard.

Located on the main level of EpiCentre overlooking the intersection of Trade and College Streets, Vida is uptown Charlotte’s first Mexican restaurant and tequila bar, featuring traditional, old-world style Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist. Imaginative concepts developed by Swinyard highlight the menu, including surf and turf tacos, orange chipotle-glazed ribs, pan-seared salmon with manchamantal and grilled pineapple salsa and red chile pecan chicken. Vida will also use tortillas made fresh daily using 100% North Carolina white corn with no preservatives by a local artisan. The entire menu will be available soon online at VidaCantina.com.

While Swinyard was constructing the menu, O’Brien oversaw two other ingredients vital to Vida: ambiance and service. Vida boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, accentuated with rich materials and Earth tones, including mesquite flooring and reclaimed brick. On the service side, O’Brien has spent the past decade at Capital Grille, a restaurant renowned for its first-class atmosphere and impeccable service. Under O’Brien’s watch, Capital Grille Charlotte won multiple awards for operation and service and he instilled those same values when creating the blueprint for Vida.

No experience at Vida is complete without a cocktail, and Vida has some of the most unique offerings in Charlotte. Vida’s extensive list of tequilas totals approximately 100 different varieties and features traditional favorites, as well as rare, unique and hard-to-find brands. Vida will also offer tequila flights, which give guests the opportunity to sample multiple tequilas from their expansive list. Those tequilas are the base for Vida’s handcrafted margaritas, which are made with simple, fresh ingredients, including the Vida Skinny Margarita, which will weigh in at around 100 calories.

Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina is Center City Charlotte’s first Mexican restaurant and tequila bar offering traditional, regional and contemporary cuisine in the heart of the vibrant uptown scene at EpiCentre. At Vida, bold, deliciously unexpected flavors are presented with refreshing style, alongside signature “Skinny Margaritas,” handcrafted cocktails and an extensive list of tequilas. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, specialty Mexican fare, hospitality and impeccable service, Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina offers a distinctive experience for its guests. Vida is evolved Mexican cuisine.

For additional information on Vida visit http://vidacantina.com/, connect with them on Facebook at facebook.com/VidaCantina or follow Vida on Twitter at twitter.com/vidacantina.

Contact: Sammy Eanes, Full House Productions, office: 704-936-5648, mobile: 540-525-0864, seanes@fhp-usa.com

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Filed under: News, Press Releases by The EpiCentre

Until Friday night, I have never celebrated a two year anniversary. In my opinion, two years is a long time. Since graduating from high school, I have not lived in the same house for two years. I have never kept a boyfriend for anything close to two years. But BlackFinn, last Friday, I celebrated two wonderful years with you. 

A little known fact is that I am a lyricist – a rapper and a rhymer. My flow and style is inspired by the late great Dr. Seuss. My closest friends receive rhymes during the most important moments in life – select birthdays, first marriages, bad breakups – basically events that result in my shot taking.

 So here’s to you, BlackFinn. 

Two years ago a relationship did start,

First, Blackfinn, you took my hand, then my heart.

Your upscale, yet, sporty style took my breath away,

And soon I began to think about you every day.

During work and after hours

Sometimes even during hot showers

(Get your mind out of the gutter-

Thinking about sliders and football made my heart flutter.)

Quality food, drinks, sports and hot men

Kept my friends and I going again and again.

Like RHOA’s Kim, I could not be “Tardy

For the Party-” The BlackFinn Weekend Dance Party.

Even after a year, you kept the flame burning,

Because there were things about you that I was still learning

I will never forget December 2009,

As I went to BlackFinn with a man who was fine, divine, and (formerly) mine.

On this day I had my first taste of  Sweet and Spicy Shrimp

And as my taste buds went limp,

I realized that a relationship with flavor

Is one I will always savor.

Oh, BlackFinn, you have given me so much in our two years

At your booths, I have danced and cheered,

And in your bathrooms, with Miss JoAnne, I have shed tears.

So last Friday night at your open bar,

I toasted the best relationship I’ve had thus far.

Congrats on two years-

Raise your glass and CHEERS!

 Congrats to the BlackFinn Team on their Two Year Anniversary… thanks for throwing a great party!

Pictures from the Party

Here are some of my favorite BlackFinn memories:

Filed under: @EpiLite by Natalie Hymel

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fashion Rocks the Runway at Pavilion Friday Night
Event will feature denim from Rock & Republic

Charlotte, NC (August 24, 2010) – This Friday night, August 27, at 8 p.m., Pavilion at EpiCentre is being transformed into a high-fashion hub as Revolution presents Rock the Republic, the most anticipated fashion event of the year, benefiting Project Go.

Rock the Republic will feature styles from Rock & Republic, the world’s most popular denim brand, and its edgy approach to fashion. The event will blend fashion with popular 80s rock music mixed with a modern twist by the popular DJ FIVE, resident DJ at both Tao and LAVO on the Las Vegas strip.

Tickets are available at Suite and Revolution inside EpiCentre, 210 East Trade Street in uptown Charlotte. VIP tickets are $20 and include premium runway seating. General admission tickets are $10. For additional ticket information, contact Shahn Sawary at 704-654-1416 or ssarwary@suitecharlotte.com. VIP Cabanas are available for $350 and include one bottle of your choice, one bottle of champagne and a gift bag valued at $500. Additional information about VIP Cabanas is available by contacting Shane McKee at 704-526-5845 or smckee@suitecharlotte.com. Rock the Republic is a 21-and-up event

A portion of the proceeds from Rock the Republic will benefit Project Go. Project Go is a non-profit humanitarian aid organization which brings relief and education to some of the poorest and most remote civilizations in the world. Additional information about Project Go is available at www.ProjectGoWorld.com, facebook.com/projectgoworld or by following them at twitter.com/projectgoworld.

Rock the Republic is sponsored in part by Revolution, myuptownfun.com, 704Events, Relish Charlotte, The CUT, GirlsNightOut and Social Flockers. Tickets to Rock the Republic also include free admission to the official Rock the Republic After Party place immediately following the event at Suite, where show attendees can flaunt their own fashion-forward attire.

Pavilion at EpiCentre is Charlotte’s premier rooftop special event venue, located in the heart of uptown. With its breathtaking views, contemporary design and sophisticated Penthouse bar and lounge, Pavilion at EpiCentre redefines urban, upscale events. Flexible floor plans, the fully equipped Bud Light Sound Stage and unbeatable amenities combine to accommodate limitless creativity in event design for groups of any size.

For additional information, log on to www.pavilionatepicentre.com or follow Pavilion on Twitter at twitter.com/pavilionrocks.

Contact: Sammy Eanes, Full House Productions, 540-525-0864, seanes@fhp-usa.com

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Filed under: News by The EpiCentre

I grew up in a small town in Louisiana where we considered Express designer denim. Buying Calvin Klein at the outlet in Foley Beach was a BIG deal. In high school, designer denim became a bigger trend, and through my first year at LSU, I laughed at my big city friends who would spend their parents’ money on a $150 pair of jeans because it made their bottoms look smaller. My dad always said I suffer from “noassatall” disease. My jeans already sagged. Why should I pay more money to make my butt look SMALLER? I’d rather drink Crown and Grey Goose in my Gap jeans while my friends sipped on Natty-Light beer in their designer jeans. Personal preference.

 Everyone told me how fabulous their jeans fit. I just thought they were tight pants with fancy pockets and induced the muffin top, but in retrospect, I think that was because none of us wanted to buy a size up after the freshman fifteen.

After my freshman year, I had some extra cash, and the designer jeans boutique had a sale. Now was the time to see what the fuss was all about. The moment those Sevens slid up my legs and cupped my butt (and waist), I was in love and also proven dead wrong. Those jeans are still folded in my dresser. I’ll get the zipper working again in about five pounds. 

Comfortable and durable during LSU tailgaiting!

After losing the sophomore fifteen – yes sophomore – I had my eye on a pair of dark denim Rock and Republic jeans that I could not afford. One weekend my very frugal mother came to Baton Rouge for a visit and we decided to go shopping. Inside one of my favorite stores I walked straight past the sale section to the jeans I had been eyeing. My mother started sweating when she saw the price tag, which was equivalent to a round trip flight to Vegas. When I walked out of the dressing room with legs for days and a mini- JLo butt, my mother quickly reached for her checkbook, happy that she would no longer need to fund butt implants.

 The summer of 2006 changed my life forever; Rock and Republic did something that no other jeans could do… they cured my case of “noassatall.” According to www.stylelist.com,  they also cure muffin top.  

Needless to say, I was very excited to learn that Suite and Revolution are hosting Rock the Republic, a fashion show benefiting Project Go-  @projectgoworld.  (Attention @EpiLite Followers: This is another staycation opportunity!) Join me as I toast my favorite denim line, Rock and Republic, at Pavilion on August 27 at 8:00 pm. I hear DJ FIVE is coming all the way from Tao and LAVO on the Vegas strip, so make sure to stay for the afterparty at Suite! 

 Fashion with a cause at EpiCentre…Who could ask for anything more?

Charlotte's Most Anticipated Fashion Event

Filed under: @EpiLite by Natalie Hymel

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fresh, Handcrafted Tortillas Highlight Vida Menu
Local artisan will create tortillas daily

Charlotte, NC (August 19, 2010) – When Chris Swinyard set out to construct the menu for Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina he made a goal to only use only the freshest, most flavorful ingredients possible. With over 25 years in the restaurant business, Swinyard knew every great Mexican dish began with homemade tortillas.

Now after months of sampling and taste testing, Swinyard has found the tortillas that will lay the foundation for every dish at Vida. A local artisan, who was born, raised and trained in Mexico, will handcraft corn and flour tortillas, tortilla chips for dipping and fresh masa for tamales. These tortillas are made fresh daily from 100% North Carolina white corn with no preservatives using old-world, traditional Mexican techniques.

“There is absolutely no substitute for fresh tortillas,” said Swinyard, Executive Chef at Vida. “It is the difference between a good dish and a fantastic dish. One of the things that will set Vida apart from other Mexican-themed restaurants is the attention to detail we put into every recipe – and that starts with fresh tortillas made with local ingredients produced daily. Once you try our dishes, you will be able to taste the difference.”

Opening this September, Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina is Center City Charlotte’s first Mexican restaurant and tequila bar offering traditional, regional and contemporary cuisine in the heart of the vibrant uptown scene at the EpiCentre. At Vida, bold, deliciously unexpected flavors are presented with refreshing style, alongside signature “Skinny Margaritas,” handcrafted cocktails and an extensive list of tequilas. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, specialty Mexican fare, hospitality and impeccable service, Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina offers a distinctive experience for its guests. Vida is evolved Mexican cuisine.

For additional information on Vida visit http://vidacantina.com/, connect with them on Facebook at facebook.com/VidaCantina or follow Vida on Twitter at twitter.com/vidacantina.

Contact: Sammy Eanes, 540-525-0864, seanes@fhp-usa.com

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Filed under: News, Press Releases by The EpiCentre

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Summer in Charlotte Just Got Hotter
SOAK Sunday takes place this Sunday at EpiCentre

Charlotte, NC (August 19, 2010) – What happens when you combine the southern hospitality of a Carolina backyard pool party with Miami-inspired groove? Find out on Sunday, August 22 as Suite presents SOAK Sunday, on the rooftop of EpiCentre at Pavilion from noon through 7:30 p.m.

SOAK Sunday is a high-energy poolside party infused with all the amenities of EpiCentre’s popular restaurants and nightclubs. At SOAK Sunday, Pavilion at EpiCentre will be transformed into a South Beach-style oasis, with turf grass covering the floor, six durable above ground pools, chaise loungers, a delicious food menu from BlackFinn American Saloon, superior customer service, first-class entertainment, a bikini fashion show and leisure activities such as ping-pong tables, a bocce ball court, corn hole, limbo, twister and more.

Tickets are available for SOAK Sunday at Suite, 210 E Trade Street, on the third floor of EpiCentre for $10. VIP cabana and pool service is available by contacting Shane McKee at 704-526-5845. SOAK Sunday is a 21-and-up event and is sponsored by Blackfinn American Saloon, Charlotte Athletic Club, Creative Loafing, Emerson Joseph, Heritage Landscaping, Kiss 95.1, Libretto’s Pizzeria & Italian Kitchen, StrikeCity, Suite, Vida Mexican Kitchen y Cantina and Whisky River. As the sun goes down and the poolside pandemonium comes to a close, StrikeCity keeps the atmosphere alive by hosting the official SOAK Sunday After Party.

“SOAK Sunday is going to be a one-of-a-kind event for uptown Charlotte,” said Ray Dover of Pavilion. “Our goal is to keep our Carolina identity and mix in the big-city, Miami-style feel with premium service.”

Pavilion at EpiCentre is Charlotte’s premier rooftop special event venue, located in the heart of uptown. With its breathtaking views, contemporary design and sophisticated Penthouse bar and lounge, Pavilion at EpiCentre redefines urban, upscale events. Flexible floor plans, the fully equipped Bud Light Sound Stage and unbeatable amenities combine to accommodate limitless creativity in event design for groups of any size.

For additional information, log on to http://pavilionatepicentre.com/ or follow Pavilion on Twitter at twitter.com/pavilionrocks.

Contact: Sammy Eanes, Full House Productions, 540-525-0864, seanes@fhp-usa.com

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Filed under: News, Press Releases by The EpiCentre

Thirsty? Stop by BlackFinn American Saloon at EpiCentre and let Nina, or any of their expert bartenders, mix your favorite drink today.

The Charlotte Observer stopped by BlackFinn this week to find out how to make the perfect Mojito. Check it out!

Filed under: News by The EpiCentre