FOOD & BEVERAGE CLOSE-UP
THE TASTEMAKER
Butler Enterprises has handed over the reins of the Stengel Field Food Hall to chef Bert Gill and what he has in mind is anything but old-school .
It ’ s time to stop thinking of farm-to-table eatery concepts , eco-conscious design , and responsible consumption as trendy . They reflect the new reality of the retail marketplace and it isn ’ t about to change anytime soon . Bert Gill knows something about that . The American chef and restaurateur is committed to ethical sourcing and creating sustainabilityminded culinary experiences that bring communities together and his next project is a testimony to that ongoing focus . He has partnered with Butler Enterprises to oversee the concept development and operation of Stengel Food Hall . It will debut next year at the company ’ s new mixed-use development : The Residences at Butler , a luxury apartment community that will anchor Butler Town Center ’ s main street in Gainesville , Florida . He ’ s got carte blanche to pick the vendors and will oversee the food hall ’ s operations as well as run his own new eatery : French bistro , L ’ Avion .
“ I have a longstanding relationship with [ company president ] Deborah Butler and couldn ’ t pass up the opportunity to contribute to the local and regional food scene . I am excited to be working in a dynamic environment where I can mentor budding entrepreneurs and incubate their restaurants [ and ] food service concepts ,” Gill said .
While this will be his first foray into the food hall business , he feels up to the task .
“ My wife and I have opened , owned , and operated multiple restaurants in town . Layout and design are complete [ and ] we are in the process of interviewing tenants .”
Besides offering patrons a choice of different foods and culinary styles , Gill believes that the food hall ’ s distinctive features will be its prime location and dynamic layout , not to mention the fact that the national food hall trend will land in the city for the first time .
“ There is a community movement toward supporting local small businesses and this will be a collective of such businesses in a central location . [ It ] will not only draw folks from Gainesville , but also surrounding smaller towns ,” he noted .
His bistro will provide its own unique experience .
“ It will have a combination indoor / outdoor dining space with a contemporary French feel and modern style . The idea is that
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