Norton County’s Destination Kitchen will provide you with one of the finest dining experiences in this part of the state. Destination Kitchen opened its doors in October 2008.

Current owners Shannon and Scott Esslinger bought the business in January of 2013. While some would say its location in downtown Norton is “out in the middle of nowhere,” loyal customers would consider that heresy and laud the fine food featured at Destination Kitchen.

“We have become a destination for delectable desserts, a cozy cup of California-roasted Peet’s coffee and top-of-the-line teas,” Shannon says. “Customers rave about our many sandwiches, and our wood-fired pizzas remain popular luncheon menu items.”

Sprinkled in among the busy cooks and eating area, dozens of displays of essential tools and gifts for the home cook can be found.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The many home-grown cooks and bakers who turn out the tasty treats at Destination Kitchen all hail from this region of northwest Kansas. Locals who eat regularly at the Norton café will tell you the ladies who work there make sure clientele are pleased with the food.

“We all have a life-long passion for exploring all avenues of food,” Shannon says. “We truly enjoy food, expanding our repertoire of new recipes and delight in tasting something for the first time.”

So, the next time you’re driving along Highway 36 and have a hankering to eat — stop by Destination Kitchen and enjoy.