Kitchen Table — Review by Food Network
Omaha, United States — American, Farm-to-Table
Kitchen Table, opened by husband-and-wife chefs Colin and Jessica Dugen, showcases innovative scratch-made sandwiches featuring classical cooking techniques. The standout whole bird sandwich combines marinated chicken breast, salted thighs and drumsticks, crispy rendered skin, and house-made aioli on whole wheat sourdough, representing comfort food elevated to fine dining standards.
What was great: The whole bird sandwich with marinated chicken breast, crispy skin, creamy chicken salad aioli, and perfectly executed technique. The innovative approach to scratch-made sandwiches using classical cooking techniques.
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The primary focus was the whole bird sandwich, a masterclass in utilizing every component of the chicken. The sandwich features a marinated chicken breast prepared with Italian parsley, white wine, fresh garlic, and blended oil, marinating for 24 hours. The thighs and drumsticks are salted overnight, then braised in chicken fat at 275 degrees for five hours until they fall apart. The rendered chicken skin is pressed flat between sheet pans like bacon, creating a crispy textural element. The chicken salad combines the shredded, braised meat with diced celery and fennel, dry tarragon, red wine vinegar, and house-made aioli. Everything comes together on 10 percent whole wheat sourdough bread with a three-egg yolk aioli made with garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon, and blended oil, finished with salt and pepper.
The Experience
Kitchen Table operates as a farm-to-table establishment where Colin and Jessica have spent the last decade perfecting their craft. The restaurant embodies a philosophy of taking advanced culinary techniques and presenting them in approachable formats like sandwiches. The couple represents an inspiring immigrant story, with one chef coming from Mexico and the other from Peru, bringing their culinary passion to Omaha and creating a destination dining experience.
Value & Pricing
Specific pricing was not detailed in the transcript, though the level of preparation and technique suggests fine dining caliber pricing.
Notable Moments
The only thing I don't like about the sandwich is absolutely nothing.
Calling a chicken sandwich is like calling a Ferrari a car.
The reviewer was visibly impressed by the depth of flavor, the rich and creamy chicken salad balanced against the perfectly marinated breast meat, and the functional use of every chicken component.
The Verdict
Kitchen Table represents innovative American cuisine at its finest, where classical training meets sandwich culture. This restaurant is best for diners seeking elevated comfort food with meticulous attention to detail and ingredient quality. It appeals to those who appreciate the story behind their food and the dedication of chefs committed to their craft.