According to recent reporting, an exciting new European inspired restaurant is nearing completion.
Local Chef Scott Alters and beverage program director Gabrielle Alters are planning to open Selaya Riviera Cafe in October’s first half at 2006 San Marco Blvd.
“Here, the husband-and-wife team will take an active part to carve Southern European culture around the Italian-influenced Balis Park. And in the process, they will continue to uplift what they see as an incredible gastronomic opportunity for the city,” the business journal states.
“We need people to want it,” Alters told the Business Journal. “We definitely have the resources. We definitely have the infrastructure. Now, we need more desire from the people.”
“On a 10-day road trip along the French coastline west from Marseille to Monton on the Italian border, in the midst of ancient farmer’s markets, art shows and sidewalk cafes and the famous Cours Saleya street in Nice, a vision for their Jacksonville home took shape,” the report continues.
“We’re like, this is what San Marco needs to be,” Chef Alters said.
The report states that Selaya will “offer up a taste of the French (and Italian) cafe cuisine: at least 16 different sandwiches and paninis built on just-baked focaccia, hand-made soups, fresh vegetable salads and “socca” dips — spiced sauces astride gluten free chickpea flatbread.”
“We’re focused on being part of our community,” Chef Alters said. “We know all the people who come to eat in our restaurant. If it sucks, we are held accountable. There’s real accountability when you’re locally-owned.”
