Ayesha and Stephen Curry are expanding their hospitality footprint in Charlotte, North Carolina, with several new restaurant openings. The debut of Ayesha’s Sweet July Cafe took place on July 20, 2026, inside The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Charlotte. The café offers breakfast and lunch menus inspired by Ayesha’s Caribbean heritage, featuring items such as coconut chia seed pudding, Jamaican beef patties, and a variety of desserts and beverages. This new location follows the earlier launch of Sweet July Cafe in Santa Monica, California, in May 2026.
The Currys’ Charlotte ventures connect deeply to their roots, as both were raised in the city and first met in high school. Ayesha Curry is well-known for her culinary presence on the Food Network and as a cookbook author, while Stephen made his first entry into the hospitality space in 2025 with The Eighth Rule, a bourbon-focused bar in San Francisco. That inaugural establishment was created in partnership with The MINA Group and Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina.
Building on their initial success, The Eighth Rule is now set to open a second location within Charlotte’s Ritz-Carlton Hotel. Stephen Curry emphasized that this expansion aims to create a communal environment where people can gather and celebrate while enjoying elevated food and drink experiences. The concept encourages guests to personalize their experience and establish their own "eighth rule" for enjoying life and social moments.
Additionally, the Currys plan to introduce Bourbon Steak to the same hotel, further strengthening their partnership with Chef Mina. These multiple restaurant projects in Charlotte mark a significant investment in the city that holds personal importance for the family, blending culinary innovation with local cultural energy. With these launches, the Currys continue to solidify their footprint in the hospitality industry, combining their celebrity influence with authentic, community-oriented dining experiences.
Really chef curry with the pot