Chef & The Farmer

Who knew this gem of a find is in Kinston? Obviously not me! A foodie friend invited us for her husband's birthday dinner. She has heard of Chef Vivian and her restaurant here in Kinston but never made it. When chef announced her $60 3 courses fixed priced menu, it's a go! For starter, I chose the tuna tartar. If you like poke bowls, this is for you. The hubby tried the beef tataki; well seasoned. Entrees were shrimp and blue corn grits with sautéed mushroom for me (didn't skimp on those shrimp. The sauce is almost like lobster bisque. 🥘); hubby picked the brined roasted chicken. I liked mine better. She changes her menu every week so yes, we'll be back. Oh, don't forget to order their cocktails. Blood orange mezcalita, definitely try it. 🍷

Vivian greeted us at the door, seated us, explained the menu, and “chatted us up”. Everything was fantastic and we really enjoyed the view from the kitchen seats. Got all the insider info on ingredients and watched the talented staff work. For starters we shared the soft shell crab and Brussels sprouts. I had shrimp scampi with in-house made tagliatelle and tasted my husband’s flank steak for the main. Dessert was chocolate coconut budino (pudding) and strawberry shortcake. We drank a glass of prosecco to start, then I had a glass of sparkling rose with dessert and the husband had a cab sav that was just delicious with his steak. The crab was absolutely amazing and so texturally pleasing. (I’ve had many that haven’t been that way.) The “red weapons” in the shrimp made it so good. It was, thank goodness, such a far cry from the gloppy mess you typically get when ordering scampi. The asparagus was super green and tender, stole the show for me surrounded by the veggie purée. Ok, another stole the show - basil whipped cream on the shortcake. Where has this been all my life? Just tasty and perfect with the strawberries and coconut cornbread. Make a reservation and GO! Such a gem in Kinston NC.

Food was awesome! The wait time was minimal for Shrimp & Grits and a Burger with Mac and Cheese. I gave 4 stars for atmosphere because the music that was playing softly kept being changed by the young girl at the counter. It was a little distracting to keep hearing the music changed because she didn't like the song or just had nothing else to do at the moment. I will come back and give it another try.

I recently visited Chef & the Farmer in Kinston after its reopening and was very impressed with the entire experience. I chose to sit at the counter overlooking the kitchen, which ended up being one of the highlights of the evening. Watching the chef and sous-chef prepare and plate each dish added a unique and engaging element to the meal. The staff was exceptional, attentive without being overbearing, and genuinely warm and personable. They made an effort to connect, which created a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. The food was outstanding. The blueberry chicken enchilada was unlike anything I’ve ever tasted—an unexpected combination of flavors that came together beautifully and was absolutely memorable. The space itself is intimate, with chic decor that blends antique touches like hanging pots and pans with a refined, modern feel. It’s thoughtfully designed and adds to the overall experience. Reservations are definitely required, as seating is limited and the restaurant is only open a few days a week. This is not a walk-in spot, so plan ahead. Overall, I highly recommend Chef & the Farmer. It’s a special dining experience that’s well worth the effort to secure a reservation.