Susan and Kevin Johnson (credit: Jonathan Boncek)
James Beard award-nominated chef Kevin Johnson and his wife Susan, who opened The Grocery in downtown Charleston in 2011, this week announced their upcoming second concept, Lola Rose. Located at The Bend (3540 Park Avenue Blvd.) in the Carolina Park neighborhood of Mt. Pleasant, Lola Rose is slated to open in summer 2023.
The Johnsons say Lola Rose will feature coastal Mediterranean cuisine in “a relaxed, convivial setting.” Designed by the renowned David Thompson Studio in Charleston, the interiors feature a bar, dining room with an open kitchen showcasing a custom pizza oven, and a covered patio.
Conklin (credit: Jonathan Boncek)
Chef Johnson will be joined in the kitchen by Hunter Conklin, who has been with The Grocery since 2021. Johnson and Conklin have collaborated on a menu that features seasonal salads, wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, local seafood, and classic mains.
At the bar, classic favorites will be served alongside seasonal spritzes, local beer, and a wine list that focuses on the winemakers of Mediterranean and American coastlines.
“Susan and I have long talked about where we saw ourselves opening a second concept, and are so excited to have found this spot,” said Kevin Johnson. “We love our Mt. Pleasant community and feel very fortunate to be able to live, play and now work in such a beautiful and welcoming place.”
An early summer 2023 opening is anticipated, and Lola Rose is now hiring for all positions. For more information, visit lolarosemtp.com and follow along at @lolarose_mtp.
