BELMONT, N.C. -- Nellie's Southern Kitchen opened her doors to a line of customers Monday. The new restaurant is on Main Street right across from City Hall with a menu just like Nellie herself: warm and inviting.
"We want people to come in and feel a big Southern hug, the way you would if you had walked into my Grandmother's house," said owner Kevin Jonas, Sr. "Because if you walked in her home, no matter how hard she worked, and the women who worked in cotton mills-- worked especially hard-- she loved you, she cared for you, and she would have a big pot of chicken n' dumplings every time I came home, no matter where I was in the world she knew that was my favorite meal."
Guests will see a portrait of Nellie in the main dining area, with references to her life inside. For example, spoons hang from her dress, an instrument she was happy to play with friends and family.
Jonas Sr. credits his grandmother with giving the family the foundation to follow their dreams, including his famous sons: The Jonas Brothers.
Nellie's Southern Kitchen is open every day and open early on Sunday for brunch. Live music will feature some country and rock, but every song promises to be easy to sing along with.