Fontana Di Vino

Jeff welcomes restaurateur Robert Maynard, and Chef Scott Liebfried – the team behind Fontana de Vino in downtown Davidson.

Scott shares how his experience with the Four Seasons and California cuisine shaped his approach to hospitality and concept creation.

Robert and Scott unveil Fontana de Vino – an Italian-forward, steak-friendly concept blending “old world meets new” with an approachable vibe. Expect hand-cut, house-made pastas, prime steaks, and lively table-side activations – including a communal polenta pour inspired by Tuscan family gatherings. The wine program is rooted in Italy’s regions.

They also discuss affordability by design, staff comfort and service, and why they prefer a buzzing dining room to hushed “fine dining.” 

Set inside Davidson’s historic former ice house at 416 S. Main Street, the build-out journey was long – and full of lessons – but the mission is simple: create a place where families and friends gather, feel seen, and leave happier than when they arrived.

Listeners will hear candid talk on reviews, margins, and resilience – and why community sits at the heart of hospitality. Fontana de Vino is aiming to open by the end of November.

Fontana Di Vino

About the Host:

Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN. He’s a licensed real estate broker and accomplished digital marketing professional.

Since 2020, Jeff has been sharing the stories of Lake Norman’s most inspiring small businesses and nonprofits.

When he isn’t working, you can usually find Jeff boating, playing pickleball, cycling local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.

Photo credit: LKN Images by Kathleen Martin