Giorgios Epicurean Market (GEM) marks the fourth collaboration between Giorgios Hospitality Group and ACS, and the third within Raleigh’s East End Development. Conceived as a morning-to-evening café and market, the GEM space has been designed to be the perfect backdrop for any occasion—from a morning coffee with friends to ending the day with a cocktail—and every moment in between.

ACS took great care to bring restauranteur Giorgios Bakatsias’ vision to life and to ensure every aspect of the project was attentively managed throughout all stages of construction. From tending to the noticeable customer-facing details to the many kitchen and behind-the-scenes particulars, ACS tackled the intricacies of both aspects.

GEM itself is a mixture of modern and traditional aesthetics—a vibe that Giorgios is both known and celebrated for. His ability to envision an ambience, coupled with CJMW Architecture’s design, results in a wonderful collection of warm details that create a comfortable area for shoppers and diners and encourages them to stay a while. Streams of natural light from the floor to ceiling windows highlight the custom painted murals, architectural millwork and artisan tilework. The polished concrete floor and statement lighting quietly complement the stone bar top. Even the perfectly proportioned caned chairs and café table tops help to set the modern scene.

In addition to transforming the previous warehouse space into GEM’s interior shop and dining room, ACS also built the sizable pergola which extends the seating area and creates a green oasis for the market. Our team also constructed the elegant private dining room that is shared with East End Bistrot to host special events for seating for up to 24 people.

ACS is proud to have worked on this collection of projects. Together, these spaces celebrate enjoying good food and friendship and are cornerstone additions to Raleigh’s East End development.

Architect
CJMW Architecture

Size
5,250 Square Feet