The end of August saw some controversy as Kern Food Hall management rolled out (and then rolled back in) a new parking fee, leaving many with a bad taste in their mouth. Social media reflected the disillusionment of customers who already feel the pressure of higher costs everywhere. Meant to be a deterrent for people who want to park for free at Kern’s for extended periods without patronizing the businesses inside, the parking fee was put in place for only a matter of days before it was removed.
From their social media: “Free parking is back at Kern’s Food Hall!
In response to community feedback, Kern’s Food Hall is announcing a revised parking policy. Effective September 5th, the previous parking fees have been suspended, and a new purchase-based validated parking system is being implemented for patrons who visit Kern’s.
This new system will allow patrons to validate the parking from their purchases within the food hall.
We are committed to listening to our community and making positive changes. This new parking policy will better serve our patrons and vendors while continuing to provide an excellent experience at Kern’s Food Hall.”
It is unclear at this time what the “new purchase-based validated parking system” will be, but we will let you know.
In other Kern’s Food Hall news, there have been several openings since we last updated you, and at least four more are in the works.
Here are the latest additions!
Awaken Coffee is now open and serving all your favorite coffees, teas, fraps and matchas. Owned by Adam and Sarah Lutts, who have owned and managed Awaken Coffee in the Old City since 2016, you get the same excellent service and interesting atmosphere in the new Kern’s Food Hall location. Customers can order takeout, get a drink, and shop at Mae Lee’s Boutique, Archer Paper Goods, or the new home décor and more store, Mellow Knox, or sit back to get your nails done at the Orange Nail Spa.
If you’re not in the mood for coffee, stop by Hey Bear Café, where you can try bubble tea and many other tastes of Asian culture. Hey Bear Café has been around for several years at the Food Truck Park on Middlebrook Pike, and the food hall is its second location.
Myrtle’s Bakehouse now has a permanent residency inside Kern’s Food Hall. You can get your sweet treat seven days a week with their creative and insanely large cookies. Flavors include Tiramisu and a Caramel Pumpkin Spice sandwich cookie, in addition to crowd favorites like The Scruffy City.
Amaryllis Taqueria is the creation of the local chef and owner of Clean Smoke BBQ, Joseph Root. Root uses the same quality smoked meats to make his tacos as he does with his BBQ. “Amaryllis Taqueria draws its inspiration from the vibrant taquerias and rich traditions of carnitas in Mexico. Capturing the essence of Mexican street food, Amaryllis Taqueria brings authentic flavors, bold spices, and culinary craftsmanship to every dish.” The menu has homemade tortillas for tacos and quesadillas, local produce, and live fire-smoked meats. Operating as a food truck while construction is ongoing, Clean Smoke BBQ is expected to open sometime this fall.
Kandilige Ghanian Cuisine recently moved into their new stall and first permanent location. Originally opening in 2022 through Real Good Kitchen, Owners Ramson Ayuba, a Ghanaian immigrant, and American wife Amina did pop-ups at Crafty Bastard Brewery and others while growing their customer base. They also began a 501c3 organization to help feed underprivileged children and elderly good, healthful food instead of the “junk” he saw being served. Read more HERE and view their menu.
Ooh Lala Indian Kitchen has quickly become a crowd favorite for its spices and flavor. All the food is prepared to order and I’ve only heard good things, but haven’t tried it myself yet.
My personal favorite so far is Hemingway’s Cuban Kitchen. I’m a sucker for a great Cuban sandwich, and this one does not disappoint. I’ve had the yuca fries and sweet plantains along with it. All were delish. Eventually I’ll branch out and get something else from the menu, but right now, this sammy is hitting the spot for me.
Still to open are Clean Smoke BBQ, Eggspectation, Aunt Nazzira Hummus Bar and T. Ralph’s Burgers.
Kern’s is filling a niche in the city with pop-up shops, special events and game-day parties. Their events page keeps you up to date with all that’s going on at the food hall.