A new addition was added to one of Kent’s oldest bars, Venice Cafe, on Wednesday night. The authentic bar welcomed the addition of the Erie Street Kitchen, a southern-style restaurant.

Erie Street Kitchen was created by Atlanta native Chef Jeff Crowe. Crowe has experience operating restaurants and catering in many cities including Nashville, Tennessee; Charlotte, North Carolina; and Akron, Ohio.

According to Crowe’s wife, Alicia Crowe, Jeff was inspired by his love for cooking and local businesses.

“Jeff has always been interested in good food, especially southern style meals,” said Alicia, a Kent State associate professor of middle and secondary social studies education in the School of Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum Studies.

Alicia also shared that many of Crowe’s recipes come from within their family and are homemade. She said Erie Street’s signature honey mustard recipe has been in their family for decades.

Many of Erie Street’s food options revolve around a southern theme such as Nashville hot chicken.

All food made by Erie Street comes from fresh and local sources, including producers such as Busy B Bakery in Stow and Lucky Penny Creamery in Kent.

“We strive on the local love and resources,” Alicia said. “We’re merging old Kent with the new up-and-coming Kent.”

The Erie Street menu has gluten-free option, as well as vegetarian options. The menu also consists of a wide variety of shareables for those who want to divide their meal among a group.

Erie Street Kitchen is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to midnight.

Dominque Pishotti is the fashion reporter, contact her [email protected].