As a founding partner of Alexandria Restaurant Partners (ARP), Dave Nicholas brings decades of experience in operations, recruitment, talent acquisition, and concept development. A native of Rochester, New York, Nicholas began his hospitality journey in South Florida in 1980 as a bartender. Captivated by the dynamic restaurant industry, he mastered a range of roles that deepened his expertise and ignited his entrepreneurial spirit. Along the way, he launched training schools for aspiring mixologists and developed unique concepts that showcased his innovative approach.

In 1992, Nicholas became the General Manager of the original Café Tu Tu Tango in Coconut Grove, Florida. His leadership propelled him to Regional Manager and Director of New Project Development for the brand’s Miami-based development group. By 2000, he was overseeing operations as Director of Ghirardelli Chocolate Company’s $30 million Restaurant and Retail Division. Seeking a lifestyle shift, Nicholas transitioned to ownership in 2005, establishing the critically acclaimed Himmarshee Bar & Grill in Fort Lauderdale, which he operated until 2012.

In 2006, Nicholas partnered with long-time colleague David Clapp to form Bottom Line Hospitality (BLH), a restaurant management and development company. Together, they owned and operated several Florida establishments, including Chispa, Bruschetta, and Shooter’s Waterfront. Their shared vision ultimately led to the acquisition of the Café Tu Tu Tango brand, marking a return to the roots of their collaboration.

In 2013, BLH was tapped to revitalize Virtue Feed & Grain, a modern American tavern in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Within two years, Nicholas and his team doubled the restaurant’s sales and transformed it into a landmark dining destination. Inspired by the area’s potential, Nicholas and Clapp expanded their efforts, evolving BLH into Alexandria Restaurant Partners (ARP).

Today, Nicholas leads operations for a portfolio of 10 celebrated concepts.