Karen’sKitchen

Just wanted to update my last post on this restaurant. Went to there to see what’s going on and just get a sense of the NEW owner’s vision. I was contacted by the new owner weeks ago regarding my scathing review of the place from the previous owner. This in itself is completely rare, but he took the time to reach out to me.
What did I see… A completely different vibe and feel. Totally redone and no longer smelling of dust, neglect and abandonment.
Chris was very gracious considering my review of days gone past. He told of Yet pending improvement and I can only imagine great personal risk. Also, met his wonderful wife and she is completely committed to making their dreams come… Btw, she is the driving force behind the renovation and totally spot on.
The name will soon change to 701 main… Please try this place and give them a welcome to Newton… We need more new businesses here that want to provide great service and awesome eats.

I really liked this place, and after the ownership changed hands recently, i figured it wouldn’t be much of a difference and decided to get my lunch there anyway. BIG MISTAKE. I got the same meal i always got before, but this time, it was over mayo’d WAY TOO MUCH MAYO, and half the chicken was surrounded by a huge fat and gristle border. The salad shrunk, still good salad but the portion was teeny. I peeled off the bacon, since it was overly fatty and the texture was icky– im not blaming them for that though sometimes bacon is just not good– and ate half the sandwich. the other half was sitting in oil, so the bottom was not edible, and when i removed the bottom i saw that the chicken was only on half the bun. Needless to say i didn’t eat it, by that point i was upset and put off my lunch. The décor that was so welcoming and homey has been completely wiped out and what remains is barely a cafeteria like feel. The cute doodads to browse have been removed, leaving stark, blank walls. I will not be returning.

Everything made from scratch while you wait. Excellent drinks, breakfast items and sandwich items to choose from. Hubby had a pancake platter that was filling and delicious. I had a bierock and Italian chicken soup. Spicy and a great take on your grandma’s, stepped up a notch.

Delicious. Eat here! Sandwiches are made with quality bread, meats and cheeses. I would definitely return.

I was in town visiting relatives for Christmas. We decided to try out Karen’s Kitchen at my friend’s suggestion. I ordered the reuben on rye. My sister-​in-​law had a turkey sandwich. We both loved our sandwiches. The reuben had great flavor, the tang of the sauerkraut melded well with the dressing. I wish there was a bit more corned beef. I didn’t get a taste of her turkey sandwich but she polished it off just as fast as I finished mine. The sandwich comes with a selection of chips, fruit, or salad. I didn’t get a choice and they gave me Lay’s potato chips.
We also ordered lattes and they were pretty good. Being from Seattle, I am a bit picky about my coffee. They did a good job pulling their espresso shots.
The restaurant also has some random kitsch to buy: candy, small toys, things you’d find for stocking stuffers.

Found this place on a Saturday noon somewhat empty of customers which may indicate it caters to the weekday crowd.
The atmosphere was unique and interesting and the only café I recall being in that also sold novelty toys, household accessories. This actually did not take away from the uniqueness.
We found the food good but expected more than a small bag of generic potato chips from this side. My wife’s club sandwich came untoasted and on marble rye — not what one would expect for a club.
Ordering food was at the counter and this is where the meals are picked up. Staff did not stop buy to ask about the meal nor offer refills of beverages so the customers were on their own.
I may return but not expect as much next time.

Outstanding food, service and atmosphere. The club was so good! This is a classic small town American experience.

Driving north out of Wichita, I needed a coffee to keep going. Karen’s Kitchen is on the main street in Newton Kansas and a great place to stop. Staff was very friendly and the latte was great. Cool place for relaxing from the road, and a chance to unwind before heading back north.
Definitely will be back if in the area!

Everything made from scratch! Super yummy. Definitely a must for lunch. I have not tried the breakfast but I’m sure it’s just as fantastic. Karen was super friendly and helpful. Also, they sell Jones sodas! Was a little wait for food during lunch hour which is expected.

Great little coffee shop with tasty breakfasts and sandwiches. Very relaxed, with a whimsical décor. Bunches of magazines to read. Great bluesy music playing in the background. I love the section with couches to sit on while I sip my tea.

Enjoyable place.

This is an interesting little deli/​coffee house in downtown Newton. We had bierox and salad. Meal was delicious, place was clean, all the employees were pleasant. Looking around at other diners, the sandwiches and reubens really looked great. I would like to eat here again!