Since opening the doors of The Goodyear House in Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood in early 2020, Built On Hospitality (BOH) has significantly expanded its footprint in the area’s hospitality industry. Founded by Chris Coleman, Sean Potter, and AJ Klenk, Built On Hospitality’s mission is to create food and beverage experiences that reflect local flavor, offer top-tier service, and feel like places you want to return to again and again.
“From the very beginning, our goal has been to create places that feel genuine to Charlotte—where every detail, from the menu to the design, tells a different story. No two spaces are alike, but they all share a commitment to thoughtful food and intentional hospitality,” says Chef Coleman.
The group’s launch in Charlotte was,more than anything, a trial by fire. Just weeks after The Goodyear House’s grand opening, the COVID-19 pandemic forced restaurants everywhere to shut down. But instead of folding, BOH doubled down. What began as a passion project in a restored mill home evolved into a brand rooted in resilience. The Goodyear House has since become known not only as a favorite brunch and dinner destination, but also for distinctive, full-scale events in their beautiful, very spacious outdoor area. They host a number of weddings along with corporate dinners, baby showers, and birthday or anniversary parties.
Unexpected Expansion
Just one year later, BOH expanded with the opening of Old Town Kitchen & Cocktails in Rock Hill. This neighborhood-friendly spot has Southern charm and approachable fare. Then, in 2024, the group added two cocktail lounges, Folia and Chief’s, to its lineup with help from Charlotte mixology legend Bob Peters. These venues began as nightlife-focused concepts. However, they have since evolved into all-day destinations, serving everything from artisan coffee (via a partnership with local favorite Night Swim Coffee) to shareable bites and curated cocktails in design-forward spaces.
Each of the three founders brings a unique strength to the group. Coleman, a well-known chef in the southeast, leads all things culinary, crafting menus that balance comfort and innovation. Klenk, a commercial real estate expert, helps identify strategic opportunities for growth. Meanwhile, Potter focuses on the guest experience from start to finish.
Although leadership in this area is outsourced, design is also a major part of BOH’s identity. Each venue offers a distinct aesthetic. there’s the warm, homey feel of The Goodyear House (thanks to design partner Cluck). In contrast, there’s the moody elegance of Folia (Black Dove Interiors) and the classic charm of Chief’s (Delgar Interior Design). No two places look or feel the same. However, all share BOH’s signature attention to detail and commitment to creating memorable environments.
What’s Next for Built On Hospitality
Looking ahead, BOH has its sights set on ever-more ambitious projects. In partnership with KHP Capital Partners, the group will manage all four food and beverage concepts inside The Beckworth, a boutique hotel opening in uptown Charlotte’s historic Johnston Building in 2026. Details on the culinary direction are still under wraps, but expect a blend of distinct style and delicious dining, as BOH has become known for.
“We’ve grown by staying true to who we are and who we serve. The common thread is hospitality that feels personal. As we look ahead to projects like The Beckworth, we’re excited to keep raising the bar for what dining in Charlotte can be,” says Potter.
