Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles
Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles, a restaurant that became a defining part of Detroit’s culinary landscape, operated for eleven years on Livernois Avenue, becoming known for its signature dish and its role in the city’s revitalization efforts. The establishment, while now closed, left a significant mark on the Avenue of Fashion and the broader Detroit food scene. [1]
History
Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles was founded and owned by Ron Bartell. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, becoming a destination for both Detroit residents and visitors. In December 2014, *Detroit Eater* highlighted Kuzzo’s, providing essential information about the establishment and its offerings. [2] The restaurant’s success coincided with a period of renewed interest and investment in the Livernois Avenue corridor, often referred to as the Avenue of Fashion. In 2019, Kuzzo’s was recognized as one of metro Detroit’s decade-defining restaurants, specifically lauded for its execution of chicken and waffles. [3]
The restaurant’s closure was announced in early 2026 after eleven years in business, marking the end of an era for many in the Detroit community. [4] The decision to close came after navigating the challenges presented by the coronavirus outbreak, which significantly impacted the restaurant industry. In March 2020, Ron Bartell discussed the effects of the pandemic on Kuzzo’s and the adaptations made to continue serving customers through carryout and delivery services. [5] Despite these efforts, the long-term effects proved insurmountable.
Geography
Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles was located at 19345 Livernois Avenue in Detroit, Michigan. [6] This address placed the restaurant squarely within the Avenue of Fashion, a historically significant commercial district in Detroit known for its concentration of Black-owned businesses and its cultural importance to the city. Livernois Avenue itself is a major north-south thoroughfare in Detroit, connecting several neighborhoods and serving as a vital corridor for commerce and transportation.
The location on Livernois Avenue was strategically chosen, as the area was undergoing a period of revitalization and economic development. In 2014, Kuzzo’s was a stop on a tour led by Mike Duggan and Bill Castro, exploring opportunities to further revitalize Detroit’s neighborhoods. [7] The restaurant’s presence contributed to the growing vibrancy of the Avenue of Fashion, attracting customers and fostering a sense of community.
Culture
Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles quickly became more than just a restaurant; it became a cultural hub within Detroit. The restaurant’s menu centered around the classic combination of chicken and waffles, offering a soul food experience that resonated with many residents. The establishment’s atmosphere and service contributed to its popularity, creating a welcoming environment for diners.
The restaurant’s branding was also a key element of its identity. The founders collaborated with Who’sThat? to custom-craft the Kuzzo’s ‘K’ and chicken emblem, and to design the eye-catching horizontal cedar facade of the building. [8] This attention to detail in both the visual and culinary aspects of the business helped to establish a strong brand identity and cultivate a loyal customer base. The restaurant’s success demonstrated the power of Black entrepreneurship and its contribution to Detroit’s cultural landscape.
Economy
Kuzzo’s Chicken & Waffles played a role in the economic development of the Avenue of Fashion. As a locally-owned business, it provided employment opportunities for Detroit residents and contributed to the local tax base. The restaurant’s popularity also attracted other businesses to the area, further stimulating economic growth.
The closure of Kuzzo’s in 2026 represented a loss for the local economy. The restaurant’s absence left a void in the Avenue of Fashion’s commercial landscape. The challenges faced by Kuzzo’s during the coronavirus pandemic highlighted the vulnerability of small businesses and the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs. The restaurant’s story serves as a case study in the economic pressures faced by businesses in Detroit and the need for ongoing investment and support to ensure their long-term sustainability. The restaurant's presence also contributed to the revitalization efforts of the Avenue of Fashion, attracting customers and investment to the area.
Restaurants in Detroit
Avenue of Fashion
African American history in Detroit
Soul food