The dream became a reality March 8 for Brandon Byxbewith a side of cole slaw.
The doors of Byxbe's first restaurant opened that date for a few days in preparation for the formal grand opening of The Amazing Kale Burger ( 741 Howard St., Evanston ) a week later.
Customers came by for several hours for Byxbe's renowned kale burger and one of three side dishesand many compliments were heard during Windy City Times' hour-long visit. "Your place is awesome; I definitely will be back," one customer told Byxbe after she finished her lunch.
There are two small tables for two, and one large table that seats six, which is billed as the community table and where strangers are encouraged to sit together. In addition, there is a bar-like seating for five.
"I'm so excited; everything looks fantastic; I couldn't be more pleased," Byxbe said in between stints in the kitchen, where he cooks and prepares the tasty sandwiches which mix nine vegetables and are vegan-, gluten- and soy-free. The sandwich alone is 156 calories, with 29 grams of carbohydrates and eight grams of proteinand the bun is homemade.
Byxbe ( pronounced BIX-BEE ) has been preparing for the opening since last September, doing most of the construction himself and with the help of friends and family. He also had two major fund-raisers for restaurant needs.
"This is exactly what I envisioned; I'm thrilled; I think everything looks fantastic. I'm even surprised how good it looks," Byxbe said.
The restaurant boasts a comfortable, inviting feel, coupled with a vintage, circus-like vibe and coloring. The menu will ultimately carry six different kale burgers, though for the soft-opening only two were offered. In addition, Byxbe also will offer rotating specials, featuring kale burger meat, such as, shepherd's pie or tacos. Plus, brunch will be served on the weekends starting March 21.
There also is a record playerand he's willing to play customer's records as well.
Byxbe, the cook, will be joined on a daily basis by one of the restaurant's four servers, and each is part-time. And all four fall under the LGBT rainbow, including another trans man, like Byxbe.
"You have to be queer or a strong queer allies [to work at the restaurant]because I want that environment, an all-inclusive [staff]," he said.
The burger alone is $7, or $9 with a side, such as cole slaw or potatoes. The side dishes will be ever-changing, Byxbe said. Soup will be available at times, too.