From NJ to NC: The Process Behind ESO Artisanal Pasta’s Relocation to Charlotte

After operating two businesses in New Jersey, AJ Sankofa and Kristina Gambarian chose to shift operations to AJ's hometown of  Charlotte, North Carolina. The relocation and relaunch  in August of ESO Artisanal Pasta at Optimist Hall required a two-year process of assembling a local team of design/build professionals, learning how to navigate Charlotte’s permitting process, redesigning the space to accommodate storage and weight issues, and securing international vendor relationships.

The transition from one market to another highlighted the operational, logistical, and regulatory challenges small food businesses face when entering a new city. The chef entrepreneurs outline key steps and setbacks involved in relocating their concept. 

Chef Kristina Gambarian and Chef AJ Sankofa

Photo by Julia FayWhy did you decide to relocate to Charlotte after building two businesses in Morristown, NJ.?There were a few key reasons. First and foremost, AJ’s mom lives in Charlotte, and…