Edwin’s, the renowned restaurant and culinary institute, is set to open its newly relocated doors this weekend, inviting diners to experience authentic French cuisine with a romantic twist. The new location takes over the historic Nighttown Bar and Restaurant building, offering a unique Parisian-inspired atmosphere and an immersive dining experience.
Brandon Chrostowski, the founder, president, and CEO of Edwin’s Leadership & Restaurant Institute, expressed his excitement about the relocation. He shared, “This is just like Paris, if you were to dine. You’ll have options for a three-course, five-course, or seven-course tasting menu.”
Intimate Dining Experience with a Touch of Nighttown’s Legacy
Edwin’s new space is designed to foster connections in a cozy, intimate setting. The dining area, salon, brasserie, and cigar bar feature small tables and cozy nooks, creating a welcoming atmosphere for guests. However, the spirit of Nighttown remains alive, with live music playing a key role in the restaurant’s ambiance. The pink-themed dining room will become a stage for musicians, including Jackie Warren’s Jazz Trio on Friday and the Latin Quartet with Sammy DeLeon on Saturday.
“We want to create a space where people can fall in love again—whether it’s with someone or with food,” said Chrostowski.
Expanding Culinary Training Opportunities for Formerly Incarcerated Adults
In addition to its fine dining offerings, Edwin’s continues its mission of providing culinary training to formerly incarcerated adults. The program, which has seen a steady increase in applicants, has outgrown its previous location in Shaker Square. The new space offers a larger, more cutting-edge kitchen and classroom to accommodate the growing number of students.
Chrostowski noted, “If the volume keeps up, we’re looking at a real cutting-edge culinary school. Real pressure, real volume, real skills.”
With nearly 100 students expected to train in the new facility, Edwin’s is making strides in offering life-changing opportunities for aspiring chefs.
Stories of Redemption and New Beginnings
Tia Eanes, a student who served time in prison before enrolling in Edwin’s culinary program, shared how the program has helped her reset her life. “I feel like I started something. I opened something,” she said, acknowledging her nerves but excitement for the opportunities ahead.
For many students, including Tristen Neuenschwander, Edwin’s offers a path to success without the burden of expensive culinary school debt. Neuenschwander, who previously worked as a chef on Cleveland’s east side, said, “I would’ve ended up with probably $200,000 in debt if I tried to get this education at a culinary school. This opportunity is not just for incarcerated people. It’s for anyone who needs a jump start.”
A Place to Fall in Love with Food
Edwin’s goal is not only to provide world-class French cuisine but also to make dining accessible to everyone. Chrostowski emphasized that affordability remains a priority, both for customers and aspiring chefs looking to build a career in the culinary arts.
Whether guests are sitting at the bar or enjoying a meal for two, Edwin’s aims to provide a memorable dining experience that transports them to the heart of Paris. Chrostowski summed it up perfectly: “This is a place to fall in love again, and we hope you come out to try it.”
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