L’Incanto—“The Enchantment” in Italian—is more than a restaurant. It is a place where craft, passion, and people come together to create something unforgettable.
At the heart of the kitchen stands Executive Chef Alex, whose journey reflects both discipline and discovery.
Born in Costa Rica and shaped by a lifetime devoted to culinary refinement, Chef Alexander Abarca Salazar brings over three decades of international fine-dining experience to L’Incanto.
Since arriving in the United States in 1993, Chef Alex has cultivated a career rooted in classical technique, disciplined execution, and a profound reverence for hospitality. His early rise drew the attention of renowned restaurateur Michael Cetrullo, leading to his role at the acclaimed Scalini Fedeli, long celebrated among the country’s distinguished dining institutions.
In New York, Chef Alex continued his ascent with Piano Due in Manhattan, where his cuisine earned critical recognition for its sophistication and precision. His culinary path further deepened through collaboration in Little Italy with celebrated chef Mario Batali, refining a philosophy grounded in artisanal pasta, regional Italian tradition, and elevated contemporary expression.
His cuisine is guided by the principles of alta cucina—purity of ingredient, mastery of technique, and respect for tradition—while embracing the warmth and soul that define true hospitality.
In 2014, Chef Alex brought this philosophy to South Carolina, contributing his craft and leadership to the respected Olympia Family Restaurant.
In 2025, Chef Carlos Echeverri invited Chef Alex to join L’Incanto—recognizing in him not just technical skill, but a shared philosophy of food, family, and experience. Today, Chef Alex leads the kitchen with a deep respect for Italian tradition, elevated through his global journey.
His cooking is not simply prepared; it is composed.
The Founders of L’INCANTO
L’INCANTO The Enchantment of the finest Northern Italian cuisine. A labor of love from visionaries Chef Carlos Echeverri and Manager Kristi Echeverri. These two proprietors have decades of experience in the restaurant industry. But L’INCANTO represents a new adventure for their longtime passion.
L’Incanto is the creation of Chef Carlos Echeverri and Kristi Echeverri—a partnership built on experience, passion, and purpose.
Carlos brings over 35 years of culinary expertise, having worked his way up in New York City from dishwasher to Executive Chef. His foundation in Northern Italian cuisine is both authentic and deeply personal, earning him a respected name in the industry and ultimately bringing him to the Greenville area.
Kristi’s journey spans every corner of the restaurant world—bartender, server, hostess, dishwasher, cook—culminating in over 15 years of front-of-house leadership. Her experience across Florida and North Carolina shaped her ability to create an environment where guests feel both cared for and connected.
The two met while working at Coal Fired Bistro, where their chemistry quickly evolved into both a personal and professional partnership. Within a year, they were engaged, married, and dreaming of something greater—a restaurant of their own.
That dream became reality in 2013 with the opening of Da Vinci’s, where they built a loyal following and established themselves as entrepreneurs.
New Adventures
After the five-year lease was up, Carlos and Kristi were determined for change. They sized up a neighboring small city with a close knit downtown district and exciting plans for revitalization… Greer just felt right. They claimed a beautiful space on historic Poinsett Street for their latest project. L’INCANTO opened in December 2018. Previous customers have flocked over. Locals have been charmed. And although new, business is very good and leaves a fantastic outlook for this Northern Italian fare to be a staple.
Longtime Passion
L’INCANTO owners put passion into every part of this business. Thoughtfully designing meals to showcase the traditions of Northern Italy with modern flare. Curating the atmosphere for elegant comfort – no detail, like frosted glass rose emblems or chic blue light emanating from the bar, left unconsidered. Carlos and Kristi are incredibly proud of this restaurant and would be honored for you to visit time and time again.
Carlos Echeverri, Chef
Kristi Echeverri, Manager