by Michael J. Solender
There was little fanfare in September when Charlotte chef and restaurateur Bruce Moffett quietly opened Sala, a European-style cocktail lounge next to his stalwart Italian restaurant, Stagioni.
The opening was, however, an homage to Blanche Morgan Reynolds-Gourmajenko, the Charlotte socialite and legendary hostess who built the Tuscan-style villa in the 1920s at the spot where Stagioni and Sala now reside. Sala is the newest addition to Moffett Restaurant Group’s portfolio, which also includes Barrington’s, Good Food on Montford, and Bao and Broth.
“Blanche was all about hospitality and entertaining,” Moffett says. “Our vision here is an extension of that feeling. We offer an accessible before or after dinner experience where people can enjoy a cocktail or light glass of wine in a relaxed and comfortable space.”
When the compact space — formerly a day spa — became available, Moffett initially thought of opening a coffee shop. But citing a need for more bar space at Stagioni, General Manager Lee Ann Dolcetto quickly talked him out of that idea. The team pivoted to create an extension of Stagioni, but with a broader European flair.
There are nearly 100 imported wines featuring French, Spanish and Greek varietals and nearly two dozen by-the-glass selections. Wines are mainly light and semi-dry; think rose, orange wine, Cotes-du-Rhone and rioja. Many are well-suited as aperitifs to prepare your palate for dinner ahead.
The cocktail menu follows a similar easy-sipping format, with both classic and seasonal libations. There are more than a half-dozen variations on the spritz, ranging from the classic (Aperol, prosecco, soda) to the more esoteric, such as the Hugo (elderflower, prosecco, mint) or the Sbagliato (Campari,
prosecco, sweet vermouth).
Snacks include a board with charcuterie and cheeses curated by Orrman’s Cheese Shop, seasonal oysters and ceviche, truffled cauliflower puree, Tuscan white bean salad, and goat-cheese-stuffed piquillo peppers.
About 60% of Sala guests dine at Stagioni, Moffett says.
“We wanted to create a casual place where people can enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine and appetizer before stepping next door. We’re also open for the after-dinner crowd who would like dessert, a late bite or to extend their evening with a coffee or after-dinner drink.”
At just 50 seats, Sala (meaning “room” in both Spanish and Italian) exudes a Euro-chic vibe with clean lines and a soothing palette. An L-shaped banquette hugs aquamarine walls to create intimate seating, and the windowed back door opens to a breezeway and the promise of culinary treats to come. A pair of blue and gold abstract paintings adds a contemporary feel to the minimalist space.
Sala also features a private room that seats 20 on the second floor. To come: an upstairs patio for additional seating.
Miss Blanche would undoubtedly approve. SP
Sala is located at 715 Providence Road.
RECIPE: Sugar Cookie
A dessert cocktail for a sweet send-off
Sala offers guests several dessert cocktails to close out the evening. The Sugar Cookie is a nutty, chocolatey and just slightly savory goodnight kiss.
Ingredients
1 ½ ounces vanilla vodka
½ ounce amaretto
½ ounce Baileys Irish Cream
2 ounces almond milk
Ice
Directions
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add all additional ingredients, and shake vigorously until well-chilled, about 15–20 seconds.
Strain into a chilled martini glass.
