Andres Kaifer was born and raised into Spanish culture which has remained a key aspect and driving force in his life and career.
From learning the basics from his mother to his first restaurant job at age 15 to graduating from the Culinary Institute of America
and cheffing across many fantastic restaurants, Andres has committed his life to make every food experience an incredible one.
Starting in Miami, he worked in esteemed restaurants including Wish, Wynwood Kitchen and Bar, Area 31, and partnering on
Beaker & Gray and Mason before being called to the rich ingredients that make NC food so unique. First landing in Durham,
Andres brought life to the menus at The Durham Hotel, Crawford & Son (which he considers his most influential experience) and
Vidrio before finding his way to Charlotte where he worked diligently as the culinary director at Mac’s Hospitality Group,
overseeing the vision and operations of all brands and locations. In 2022, the opportunity arose to take over as Executive Chef and
Owner of Charlotte mainstay, Customshop, where he brought his culinary expertise, menu development and all areas of restaurant
operations and management. Since then, he has collaborated with Michelin Star Chef Michael Beltran, increased sales by 75%,
invested nearly $75,000 into renovations and rebuilding the brand into the fine dining, community-loved staple it is today.
ABOUT CUSTOMSHOP:
Located at 1601 Elizabeth Avenue, Customshop has been a Charlotte gem since 2007, known for its handmade, sustainable dishes
that highlight the seasonality and beauty of local NC produce, seafood and specialty items in a weekly rotating menu. Just
recently, the Elizabeth staple was recognized as Charlotte’s number one best restaurant by Axios. Customshop is open from 5 p.m.
to 10 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday. More information can be found and reservations can be made at customshopfood.com.