Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story stated Ben Sullivan and the existing kitchen staff will remain in place. Sullivan departed the restaurant prior to the purchase; the rest of the staff will remain in place. We regret the error.

The parent company of SouthPark restaurant Peppervine has purchased a popular Hickory restaurant. Imagine One Hospitality, which owns Hickory restaurant Cafe Rule as well as Peppervine, has added Highland Avenue to its portfolio, as well as event space The Crossing at Hollar Mill. Imagine One was founded by Robert Lackey, with a reach that spans 40 companies across the service and product industries.

Former executive chef Ben Sullivan departed the restaurant prior to the purchase. Highland Avenue has held a reputation for serving seasonal, farm-driven dishes. Both Kyle McKnight of Barrister’s and Daniel Wheeler of Dot Dot Dot spent time as executive chefs at Highland Avenue.

Imagine One Hospitality plans to renovate the mill that houses both Highland Avenue and The Crossing, with a short-term facelift taking place this summer. A more significant update will take place in 2020.

Highland Avenue and The Crossing were previously owned by Carolina Moon Hospitality. —Kristen Wile