Chef Michael Beltran’s innovative New American restaurant was never envisioned as a takeout joint, but it might be one of many lasting changes spurred by the pandemic. With DIY meal kits and personalized in-house delivery, including top-tier wines sold to-go at retail prices, Beltran and his team found that they could bring the Ariete experience to a wider audience.
Meanwhile, an expansion of the wine program became a focus for both home dining and in the restaurant as a sense of normalcy resumes.
“This past year gave me the opportunity to take a closer look at Ariete and figure out ways to elevate the restaurant, and I realized one of the best ways to do this was with our wine program,” says Beltran. “Once we got back on our feet and saw ourselves in a good place, we decided to reinvest in the program. It’s made such a difference.”