More than two years in the making, Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles had its soft opening debut on The Avenue of Fashion in late-January. The combination of exposed brick, warm wood tones, and pop art commissioned from neighboring Red Bull House of Art, creates an active and inviting atmosphere that reflects the restaurant's name. Kuzzo, as a mural behind the bar defines it, is "a term of endearment for one who is a friend or family member."
The eatery cooks up southern-style cuisine including 10 different chicken and waffle combinations alongside omelets, salads, sandwiches, and more. Lemonade, sweet tea, Kool-Aid, and other more typical non-alcoholic drinks comprise the beverage menu, although the restaurant plans to add craft cocktails, beer, and wine to the list.
Owner and former NFL player Ron Bartell grew up in the neighborhood and tells Eater he hopes opening a restaurant on this block will inspire others to bring their businesses to Livernois. "The vision was to give [the area] upscale, casual dining in a neighborhood environment. You can come in jeans and a T-shirt or a suit and a tie. We want to have that type of feeling where everybody is welcome," Bartell says.
Kuzzo's will host its Grand Opening with extended hours beginning March 3. Check the restaurant's Instagram for updates and hours.