Daily News
From Home Furnishing Business
Crate and Barrel Opens First In-Store Restaurant
July 11,
2019 by Laurie Northington in Business Strategy, Industry 
Home furnishings retailer Crate and Barrel has announced the opening of The Table at Crate, a collaboration between Crate and Barrel and Cornerstone Restaurant Group, with James Beard-nominated Chef Bill Kim leading the kitchen.
Opened July 10 within Crate and Barrel's Oak Brook, Illinois store, The Table at Crate is the company’s first full-service restaurant and Cornerstone's first venture into the retail space.
"As a longtime destination for all things home, we know that our customers love to entertain," said Neela Montgomery, CEO of Crate and Barrel. "We share that passion and The Table at Crate creates a more immersive brand experience for our customers."
The menu, developed by Chef Bill Kim, takes a plant-centric approach and celebrates Midwestern seasonality and a modern way of dining that is lighter, brighter and layered in herbaceous flavor. The menu is divided into shareable Bites, Garden, Greens, Tartines, Bowls and Mains, with many ingredients sourced from local farms and purveyors. Like the food, the cocktails will take cues from the seasons, with a dedication to housemade syrups and juices.
Further blending restaurant and retail, guests can extend their experience by enjoying a signature cocktail as they explore the adjacent Crate and Barrel store. As part of its partnership with Cornerstone Restaurant Group, Crate and Barrel is also exploring unique and interactive programming on-site, such as chef demos, cookbook dinners and other special events for customers to draw inspiration.
"There is a tremendous opportunity to push the boundaries of the restaurant and retail spaces," said Josh Zadikoff, president of Cornerstone Restaurant Group. "We are excited to deliver a new and unique experience for our guests, connecting them with creative food and classic design and celebrating the simple beauty of everyday dining."