Once upon a time, New York City was full of magic; Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is helping to bring it back.
Pre-2020, you could walk through Times Square and find a restaurant with a party on almost every block. Then the pandemic changed it all; stores and restaurants closed up shop. While the light stayed on, the energy was gone. Finally, it is time to bring life back to New York. Lucky for us, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley has brought some of that energy with its grand opening.
From the moment you walk in, you can hear Kelley’s philosophy on his food. “Welcome Home” is the greeting you hear after each interaction. This phrase is important because for Kelley “home” is central to his vision for this chain. We had a chance to speak to Kelley, and he shared that some of these dishes come from his family. Support from his family has been important to Kelley. He recalled that his late grandmother, who taught him much about food, often ate from his restaurant. Kelley also mentioned that his Oxtails have an authentic origin, with the recipe coming from his mother-in-law.
Photo Courtesy: KK Concepts
“When it comes down to it, I want to welcome you home, treat you with love and give you some food,” Kelley said. And Kitchen + Kocktails makes good on this. We started off with their 24K Magical Champagne paired with the Collard Green dip. Hearty and filling, the dip is a perfect starter for a night out. Next up were the Caribbean Jerked Lamb Chops, which were tender and seasoned to perfection. To close, we cozied up with the peach cobbler. Warm and decadent, the dessert was a perfect close to a dinner at “home.”
Photo Courtesy: KK Concepts
Kelley noted the restaurant has enough space to host more than four events simultaneously. And with a playlist to keep you moving all night long, Kelley has made something special. Kitchen + Kocktails brings its signature soul food to this perfect ambiance. The restaurant masters a balance of good food, ample space, and music that is loud enough for you to enjoy and carry a conversation. Kitchen + Kocktails is what Times Square has been missing for some time.
