If you’ve had a chance to read a little bit about CRAFTkitchen, then you probably know what we’re all about. While the restaurants that built me will always have a special place in my heart, I knew–for a very long time–I wanted to do something different. I wanted a kitchen of my own where I was free to experiment, fail, play. Today, I’m watching that dream, literally, be built, and I could not be more excited about it. Community is such an important part of why we do what we do, and my goal is to keep you in the loop on everything. So today, I wanted to walk you through the construction of CRAFTkitchen and what you can expect when we open our doors.
The current state of the union looks something like this: back-of-the-house walls are up, all front-of-the-house walls are textured and painted, custom wood tables for the dining area are currently being handmade, our ceiling grid is going up, and–the most exciting part in my opinion–equipment is starting to show up.
In short, we are coming right along (a fact I have to remind my very impatient self of everyday). I can actually walk in the space now (made up of what used to be a small restaurant and an insurance company) and visualize friends, family and community members sitting down and dining. I can picture our private dining room full for a party and our grab-and-go counter bustling with people looking for a good latte and warm croissant, or an iced tea and lump-crab salad. I can see my amazing team working the kitchen (the space I’m most excited about, for obvious reasons).
When all is said and done, you should walk into a space that feels industrial and rustic, yet welcoming and warm. You’ll be surrounded by greenery and local artwork (some of it from my talented daughter). You’ll be in a space that eats, breathes and thinks local: produce will come from local growers; coffee will be roasted by a company out of Boulder City; you’ll have your pick of some amazing local craft beers. And, if I’ve done my job right, you’ll feel comfortable and excited for what is to come–whether that’s a long night of vino with friends or a quick family dinner with loved ones.
