Updates at local landmark intended to draw customers
PHOTOS BY JACQUI L. HERSHBERGER
The Dutch Kitchen, 14278 E Lincoln Way, was recently renovated and reopened to offer an updated modern farmhouse style.
By JACQUI L. HERSHBERGER
DGKN correspondent
DALTON From the outside, Dutch Kitchen, a popular restaurant, bakery, gift shop and event center for local residents and out-of-towners alike, hasn’t changed much. But, inside, all sorts of changes are taking place.
When you enter, the gift shop still offers something for everyone on your list, and currently looks much the same. The real difference is in the dining area and event rooms, which have been updated to a modern farmhouse style, and the buffet line has been moved.
“The easiest way to put it is that not a lot is going to change,” said Derek Kelsey, the general manager, “we’re still going to offer home-cooked style food.”
The four women who run the bakery will still make fresh bread and donuts every day, he said.
Events and groups can still rent out the Event Center, Cottage, and rooms that seat anywhere from 22-200 people. Off-site catering is still available.
A salad bar and buffet are still offered, with the new addition of a dessert bar. When a new and extended buffet opens – hopefully by the end of March – there will be some additions, including a shorter children’s buffet. Placed at a height so that children can reach it, kids should be able to find some of their favorites, like macaroni and cheese and chicken tenders. On the extended buffet, they also hope to have a different culinary theme each week, like Italian or Mexican.
“Between the executive chef, Lexi Jackson, and myself, we have about 50 years cooking experience, so the extended buffet will be a place we can bring in some new flair to the menu,” Kelsey said.
Online ordering is expected to be available soon, and Dutch Kitchen also plans to advertise more on social media.
“We’d love to draw in younger families to try the restaurant, and to try to figure out what would pique the interest of locals,” said Delight Howells, Director of LincWay, and part owner of Dutch Kitchen.
LincWay LLC is a project that has been progressing next to Dutch Kitchen and is a partnership with the Wayne County Children’s S.T.E.A.M Playlab, and J & CO Hair Studio. LincWay Café & Market, Art Studio, and Workspace are all part of the plans.
