FIRST: Over Easy At The Depot

Located in the historic train depot on Franklin Avenue is Over Easy At The Depot. This woman-owned and operated business is a favorite for Kent students, especially those looking for a healthy breakfast.

“We serve the freshest ingredients,” owner Shannon Zemba said. “College kids come in and they get a good meal and enough to take home.”

For Zemba, it is all about leaving her guests happy and full.

“We want college kids that are far away from home, as well as our local college kids, to come in and feel like they’re at home getting the comfort food that they would get,” she said.

Since moving to the depot in 2021, Over Easy has continued to grow. The owner is looking to expand to dinner in the future and is currently in the process of receiving a liquor license.

“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the community and Kent State,” Zemba said.

SECOND: Wild Goats Café

Located on West Main Street, Wild Goats is a “fun and funky dining experience,” general manager Tom Holman said.

Breakfast options range from the traditional pancakes and omelettes to its famous morning clucker, a “hand-breaded buttermilk chicken breast served over cheddar crusted fried bread, topped with sausage gravy, over medium eggs, and cheddar cheese,” according to its website.

Making customers the priority is why Wild Goats stands out, Holman said.

“We are very customer driven,” he said. “The staff is trained extremely well in the hospitality industry.”

THIRD: Mike’s Place

This family-owned establishment on South Water Street was founded in 1987 by Mike Kostensky. With its funky decorations that are hard to miss, in-house band and family atmosphere, it is an experience unlike any other in Kent.

“We prepare all our food ourselves, and it doesn’t come precooked from some franchise distribution center,” the Mike’s Place website stated. “Yes, it might not look exactly the same as it was the time before on the plate but that is what happens with homemade food.”

It is the homey food that is the secret to the success of Mike’s Place. With over 200 items on the menu there is something
for everyone.

Alton Northup is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].