One of Rochelle’s newest and innovative dining venues is struggling with an identity crisis.
The Kitchen Table, located three miles west of Rochelle located in part of the iconic Klondike Restaurant, has been tagged a “soup kitchen” in the tradition of Depression-era assistance to the poor and needy, down and out, devoid of fortune. And it’s an image the owners are anxious to change.
Depression time soup kitchens were set up quickly, served soup and perhaps a sandwich. More sophisticated of these set ups sometimes even included a donut for dessert. The Kitchen Table is more than just mere sustenance, but rather a hearty meal, a sense of community and care where diners can pay what they can afford, or “pay it forward” by assisting the facility in the preparation and serving of meals to other customers.
In terms of payment, soup kitchens offered totally free meals, no questions asked; eat and be on your way. The philosophy that guides the activities at the Kitchen Table extend beyond the basics: food is served on a “free will” basis. This can involve paying the price of the meal, or whatever the diner can afford, or offering practical help at the facility. And there is no need to rush out the door when done.

“The Kitchen Table is not a soup kitchen,” one board member said. “We offer a complete meal; meat, vegetable, usually a salad, bread and butter and dessert. At times, we have a choice between two different meats and sometimes options on vegetables. We are a not for profit café; we operate on the free will donations we receive from our patrons. We’re here to help those in need, but of course we need help in return, either by monetary donations or by volunteering.”
One patron recently said they wouldn’t expect this type of meal from any restaurant and be charged two or three dollars. I donate what I would expect to pay at any other restaurant and then some. Another said they couldn’t get the ingredients for any of the meals offered from the grocery store to prepare at home for less than five to seven dollars per meal.
The Kitchen Table operates on the donations received to pay the bills: electricity, gas, phone, groceries, utensils, whatever. When something breaks down, it costs to have it repaired or replaced.
The Kitchen Table also stresses a community spirit, which brings it more in line with the definition (nationally recognized) as a community kitchen. While carry outs are available, patrons are encouraged to seated at table with others, fellowship, and contribute to just that: a community spirit.
The Kitchen Table is open Tuesday and Thursday late afternoon and evenings and on the first Sunday of the month for brunch.
For additional information, check out the facility website on Facebook for menus, photos, news of special events, and more.