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New restaurant offers ‘Americana’ experience
STRUTHERS
A huge American flag hangs on the wall behind the bar, greeting restaurant customers.
Facing the flag on the opposite wall is a framed painting of legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.
And painted directly on the wall next to Ali is renowned musician Bob Dylan.
“This diner is definitely Americana,” said Ross Fowler, chef and owner of The Kitchen Post, 582 Youngstown-Poland.
The restaurant’s design and decor – including the shipping carton-themed tables and seats to accommodate up to 30 customers – was put together by Ross and his mother and business partner, Linda Fowler.
The menu represents America’s multicultural side with categories such as tacos, nosh bowls, sodas made in-house and sweets. Meal prices range from $4 to $15.
Unlike the traditional restaurant, Ross said there is no set menu. It can change multiple times a day; fried pork tacos are the only set item for now.
“It’s innovative,” Linda said, adding that they use social media such as Facebook and Instagram to let customers know what’s on the menu.
On Fridays, the restaurant offers 10 small-plate items on the menu, and Southern-type breakfast Saturdays. Ross said he would like to add a selection of craft beers.
He studied cooking at Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts in Pittsburgh and graduated in 2011. The Poland native spent three years working in North Carolina before returning to Youngstown.
The Kitchen Post is open from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturdays.