About the Owners
Many chefs and restaurant managers who "always dreamed of having their own" open restaurants. Meriwether's owners John and Renee Orlando took a slightly different path to restaurant ownership.
Renee first fell in love with the building at 2601 NW Vaughn Street as a child in the early 70's, when she passed by it each week on the way to church on Highway 30. She and John noticed the building was for sale in 2003. Remembering its rich history all over again, together they decided to purchase it without a clear vision for its future.
In 2004, 2601 NW Vaughn received a total facelift, but no structural changes were made. With his past experience and connections, John was the obvious choice to supervise the remodel, and he was able to bring in many of the sub-contractors he'd worked with when he operated his own construction company. The outdoor gardens and dining areas were inspired by Renee's love of gardening. The goal during every step of the Meriwether's remodel was to create an environment that would be as warm, comfortable and inviting for customers as visiting John and Renee's home.
