News Summary
Ratio, a popular Peruvian tapas restaurant in Elgin, will close its doors on June 28 after five years of service. Chef Javier Uriarte announced the closure due to lease expiration and personal priorities. The restaurant has been a cherished dining spot, known for its innovative take on Peruvian cuisine and commitment to craft hospitality. As the closure date approaches, Uriarte hints at future endeavors to keep the Ratio brand alive, potentially through catering and pop-up events, inviting both loyal customers and newcomers to enjoy the restaurant one last time.
Elgin – Ratio, a beloved Peruvian tapas restaurant located at 566 Spears Creek Church Road, will soon close its doors after five years of service. The announcement came from chef and owner Javier Uriarte via his Instagram account on May 1, with a final service date scheduled for June 28.
Uriarte’s decision to close Ratio was influenced by the expiration of their lease and a shift in personal priorities. Since he opened the restaurant as a newlywed, he has embraced a new chapter of life that includes his role as a father of two, prompting him to seek rest, family, and reflection.
Over the years, Ratio has established itself as a prominent dining destination in Elgin, known for its chef-driven menu that highlights small plates and innovative cocktail offerings. The restaurant has been described by Uriarte as a gathering place, a platform for creativity, and a heartfelt tribute to traditional Peruvian flavors and craft hospitality.
Throughout its operation, Ratio garnered a loyal following and was warmly received by the Columbia community. Its influence in the local culinary scene earned Uriarte recognition as one of the three 2024 SC Chef Ambassadors. This program honors chefs who make a positive impact on South Carolina’s dining landscape.
In addition to his ambassadorial title, Uriarte showcased Ratio at the Columbia Food and Wine Festival each year, further solidifying the restaurant’s reputation. The unique takes on traditional Peruvian cuisine and small plates created a distinct culinary experience that attracted food enthusiasts.
Although the physical restaurant will close at the end of June, Uriarte has hinted at maintaining the Ratio brand through alternative avenues in the future. Plans may include catering, private events, pop-ups, and creative collaborations, allowing the essence of Ratio to continue beyond its brick-and-mortar establishment.
For those wishing to experience Ratio one last time, the restaurant will remain open from Wednesday to Saturday until June 28. Uriarte encourages both regular customers and newcomers to visit and enjoy the renowned dishes that have made Ratio a favorite among locals.
As the countdown to closure continues, the Elgin culinary scene prepares to bid farewell to a cherished restaurant that has made a lasting impact on the community and showcased the vibrant flavors of Peru.
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Additional Resources
- Cola Daily: Popular Peruvian Tapas Restaurant in Elgin Announces Closure
- Wikipedia: Tapas
- Post and Courier: Ratio Closing Columbia SC Tapas Chef
- Google Search: Peruvian Cuisine
- Greenville Online: Dining Out Follow SC Chef Ambassadors Culinary Trail
- Google Scholar: South Carolina Chefs
- Columbia Business Report: South Carolina Chef Ambassadors
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Peru Food
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