Judging by the reception it’s been getting, a new restaurant in the area is more than up to par.
The Ktchn opened about a month ago at the Braestone Club in Oro-Medonte, at 3000 Line 11 N., just off Horseshoe Valley Road.
The Ktchn overlooks the sprawling 18-hole golf course and was designed with both the past and present in mind, said Sarah Keith, director of hospitality and events with Georgian International, which operates Braestone.
“The concept here was essentially a large farmhouse, so we tried to play off that,” she said, noting vintage furniture and other items were repurposed to create “a modern spin on an old farmhouse.”
The rural setting also lends itself to the theme of the building.
“We like the idea of going back to nature and we wanted it to feel homey,” Keith said. “When you come in here, you do feel like you’ve known this place and the people forever.”
“It’s a welcoming place, but it goes both ways. People have been welcoming to us,” added Rhys Jenkins, food and beverage manager.
The Ktchn has earned a number of fans in the short time it’s been open.
“We found people were excited to try it the first time, but many have been coming back,” said executive chef Sam Vance.
His menu has been a factor in that early popularity. He likened it to pub food that is elevated but not pretentious.
“It was meant to be approachable,” Vance said. “It’s a fine menu, but it’s casual.”
It includes steaks selected from Canada and the United States and unique spins on favourites such as fish and chips, salads, nachos and burgers.
There is also an extensive cocktail list as well as wine from Niagara, California and Italy.
Vance is most proud of two dishes on the menu.
“For a real classic taste experience, try the filet plate,” he said, noting it comes with filet mignon, roasted garlic mash, asparagus, charred fennel, local microgreens, and demi-glace poured tableside.
For dessert, he recommends his signature peaches and cornbread.
The Ktchn has various settings for diners to enjoy their food and drinks — regular table seating and more private areas, including seats near fireplaces — and they can take in the paintings from talented artists on the walls.
It’s been a positive experience so far, but there were struggles that came with building a new restaurant during a pandemic.
“It was challenging because everyone across the board had delays,” Keith said, noting it took some time to get windows, doors and lumber. “We did struggle, but not for very long. We found a team that was really excited about something that was new and different. Everyone pulled together. It was really heartwarming.”
The Ktchn employs 13 people.
Its hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Thursday to Saturday (lunch and dinner service) and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays (brunch and dinner service). It is expected those hours will be expanded when the golf season returns in the spring.
More about The Ktchn can be found on its website.