Chicken Kitchen closes its doors

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GREENVILLE — As the Great Darke County Fair prepared to open its gates, a nearby eatery, and local landmark, closed its doors Thursday.

The Chicken Kitchen, 102 Birt Street, in Greenville, announced two months ago it was shutting down August 18. Since the announcement, business has been brisk as local customers have sought to get their fill of delicious chicken one last time, especially during its final hours.

“The customers today have had an hour to an hour-and-a-half wait, whether they walk in or call in,” said Angie Beumer, who has owned the restaurant along with her husband, Kevin, for the past 17 years. The couple purchased the Chicken Kitchen in 1999 from Alvin Beumer, Kevin’s father, who originally started the business in 1963, which was then located on Front Street.

When asked why they are closing, she said her husband is retiring due to medical concerns, and, after taking some time off, she will seek another job. The family is also planning to vacation in the near future.

The business employs four non-family members who will also be seeking employment.

Beumer called the choice to close down “a hard decision” on their part, especially given the thoughtful sentiments and well wishes offered by their customers.

“A lot of our customers are regulars. We know what they want when they pull in the parking lot. They’re like family,” she said.

“I want to thank everyone for the outpouring of support. It’s been unbelievable,” Beumer added. “We’ve gotten a lot of sweet notes and hugs.”

The Chicken Kitchen, 102 Birt Street, in Greenville, closed its doors for the last time Thursday. It had been in business since 1963 and at its current location since 1999.
https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_chicken-kitchen-0002-PRINT.jpgThe Chicken Kitchen, 102 Birt Street, in Greenville, closed its doors for the last time Thursday. It had been in business since 1963 and at its current location since 1999. Erik Martin | The Daily Advocate

Angie and Kevin Beumer (center and right), owners of the Chicken Kitchen, served their customers one last time on Thursday. They are joined at the counter by their daughter, Tiffany Kester (left).
https://www.dailyadvocate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/web1_chicken-kitchen-0004-PRINT.jpgAngie and Kevin Beumer (center and right), owners of the Chicken Kitchen, served their customers one last time on Thursday. They are joined at the counter by their daughter, Tiffany Kester (left). Erik Martin | The Daily Advocate
A Greenville presence since 1963

By Erik Martin

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The writer may be reached at 937-569-4314. Join the conversation and get updates on Facebook search Darke County Sports or Advocate 360. For more features online go to dailyadvocate.com

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