Smiling faces and appetizing smells beacon hungry patrons to Earley's Kitchen, which is now open at SouthWood's Town Center. Specializing in Savannah-style cooking, owners Jay and Anita Morrell offer southern delectables such as cornbread, fried chicken, and an array of fresh vegetables. The atmosphere is warm and cozy, evoking memories of sitting around your grandmother's kitchen table.
Morrell didn't just bring a delicious selection of Savannah-style food to SouthWood, he also brought a wealth of culinary experience. Morrell is a Certified Chef by the American Culinary Federation and most recently served as Executive Chef at Florida A&M University, his alma mater, for eight years. His ultimate goal, however, has been to own a restaurant with wife Anita.
Realizing the advantages of purchasing a recognized brand versus starting a business from scratch, the Morrells purchased Henry's Meats & Earley's Kitchen on South Monroe from founders Eddie and Cynthia Earley nearly three years ago. Enjoying success at the 1812 South Monroe location, the Morrells aspired to expand to a second location.
"We're very excited to have opened a second location in SouthWood," says Jay Morrell. "I really like the master-planned community concept-everything happening in a small town within a city. I've always wanted to own a business in SouthWood and I'm thrilled to be a part of this community."
As Central Florida natives, Jay and Anita moved back to their hometown shortly after graduating from Florida A&M University. While working there, Morrell discovered the town of Celebration and fell in love with the master-planned community concept. In fact, he and Anita made sure their youngest son was born at the hospital in Celebration, driving past another hospital that was closer.
When returning to Tallahassee nearly a decade ago, Morrell heard about another master-planned community that was in its beginning stages named SouthWood. His dream of operating a business in SouthWood has finally come to fruition.
Patrons have the option of either dining in or carrying out, and full service on-site and off-site catering is available. Open for breakfast and lunch, operating hours are Monday through Saturday 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sunday Breakfast is served from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
"Our restaurant's casual atmosphere and menu as well as quick service are a good fit for families and the employees at the nearby state offices," say Anita and Jay Morell.
We welcome Earley's Kitchen to the SouthWood family and invite you to dine with Town Center's newest tenant.
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