Kitchen Proper

If you are looking for a place where gastronomic traditions meet modern urban style, be sure to stop by Battle Creek. This is home to Kitchen Proper—a cozy establishment that describes itself as a "Rustic Urban Eatery". It is a true oasis for foodies in the heart of the USA, where the focus is on exceptional freshness and a signature approach to cooking.

The restaurant's name is inspired by the term "city proper," which in major American metropolises refers to the central, most vibrant part of the city. The creators of Kitchen Proper wanted to emphasize the establishment's connection to the pulse of downtown and its significance to the local community. Here, a warm atmosphere awaits you, along with a menu based on wild-caught fish, high-quality meats, and homemade pasta.

The restaurant is the result of a creative collaboration between husband and wife Anthony Davis and Sarah Barany, whose extensive experience in the restaurant business is felt in every detail—from the table setting to the curated wine list. This spot has become a symbol of the area's culinary rebirth, offering guests honest and delicious food in a stylish interior.

To book a table or check the current menu, you can use the contact details provided below. The restaurant is deservedly popular with locals and visitors alike, so it is best to plan your visit in advance.

The main reason to visit Kitchen Proper is to experience the seasonal menu, which is updated regularly to delight guests with the freshest flavors. You can try homemade pasta with exquisite sauces, freshly caught fish, or hand-cut steaks. Be sure to check the special chalkboard in the dining room: there, the chef lists daily exclusive offerings that showcase his creative imagination.

Connoisseurs of quality drinks will find an extensive list featuring local breweries, signature cocktails, and carefully selected wines. Of particular note are the monthly wine dinners organized by Sarah Barany. These are a wonderful opportunity not only to taste rare wine varieties but also to learn more about food pairings in pleasant company.

If you are planning a celebration, the restaurant offers catering services and the option to host private events. The team is ready to develop a custom menu to make your occasion truly special. Visitors often remark not only on the taste of the dishes but also on their impeccable presentation, which turns an ordinary meal into an aesthetic pleasure.

Finding this gastronomic destination is easy—it is located in the city's historic center at 34 West Michigan Avenue. Thanks to this central location, the establishment is within walking distance for those already strolling along the main streets or exploring local sights.

If you are arriving by car, there is convenient parking available near the restaurant. For the most accurate route, we recommend using GPS navigation. You can also quickly reach the restaurant from anywhere downtown by taxi or by using local bus routes that pass through the business district.

The story of this establishment began in August 2018, when husband-and-wife duo Anthony Davis and Sarah Barany purchased the building that formerly housed Malia Mediterranean Bistro. Interestingly, both founders have a close connection to this location: Sarah worked here as a server for about six years, and Anthony was the head chef. Combining their forty years of industry experience, they created a project that has become a vital part of the downtown revitalization.

Anthony Davis is a high-level professional who graduated with honors from the renowned Le Cordon Bleu culinary school in Las Vegas. Before opening his own business, he served as the director of operations for a large bakery, which helped him establish flawless processes in the Kitchen Proper kitchen. His passion for quality ingredients became the foundation of the restaurant's concept.

The opening of Kitchen Proper was made possible in part by support from a microloan program through the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. Since its inception, the restaurant has become a magnet for a diverse crowd: from local artists and businesspeople to tourists seeking authentic flavors in the heart of Michigan.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere and the chef's craftsmanship, we recommend setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time for a leisurely dinner, including appetizers, a main course, and perhaps one of the signature desserts or a glass of wine.

If you plan to attend one of the special wine dinners occasionally held at the establishment, you should set aside a bit more time for the evening. In any case, Kitchen Proper is not a place for fast food, but a space where the culture of dining and quality service are truly valued.

The restaurant operates on a convenient schedule for evening visits; however, please remember that the establishment is closed on Mondays and Sundays. From Tuesday to Thursday, the doors are open from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. On Friday and Saturday, hours are extended until 8:30 PM, allowing guests to enjoy the weekend atmosphere a bit longer.

As hours may change on holidays or due to private events, we recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Exploring the surrounding area after your meal will allow you to fully experience the city's atmosphere. Within a few minutes' walk, you will find cozy breweries as well as significant historical monuments.