WC Disher Kate Brennan visits Mo’s Rhythm Kitchen and reported back on her experience.

It’s easy to walk by Mo’s Rhythm Kitchen, the little restaurant on Gay Street between Landmark Americana and Ryan’s Pub.  However, this modest spot is worth a visit inside.  There may not be much in the way of seating, and the kitchen may be rather no frills, but Mo’s certainly accomplishes what owner Kevin intended – to “create smiles with good food.”

Kevin Hogue, a general contractor turned local restauranteur, had always wanted to open a restaurant.  Inspired by trips to the Caribbean, Kevin started Mo’s Rhythm Kitchen when the lagging economy slowed down his contracting work.  A West Chester local who tired of the regular cuisine, he craved “something different” that couldn’t be found at any other restaurant in town.  Mo’s boasts “authentic cuisine from Georgia to Jamaica,” basically a soul food tour of the South Atlantic.

Mo’s Rhythm Kitchen offers starters, chicken, pork, beef and fish dishes.  Appetizers range from staples like Fries and Chicken Tenders to unique choices like Catfish Fingers with Sweet Soul Sauce and Fried Plantains with Garlic Sauce.  There are a variety of beef, pork and fish sandwiches and entrees, but I went with the Caribbean Jerk Chicken platter, which included two huge pieces of juicy white chicken and a side (I picked Mac and Cheese on the cashier’s recommendation).

My chicken was by far the juiciest, most savory chicken I’d had in as long as I can remember.  Part of the secret was the recipe – apparently Kevin marinates his chicken for twelve hours in a homemade buttermilk sauce, then breads and fries the chicken to order (regular or spicy).  The result is a succulent piece of chicken with a tasty, crispy skin.

Not all the dishes will ruin your bathing suit season, of course.  In these warm summer months, Mo’s salads are a perfect refreshing lunch or hearty dinner.  Make sure to take advantage of the $1.00 off special on Tuesdays.  Highlights include Jerk Chicken Salad with tomato, pepper jack cheese, pineapple, onion and avocado, and the BBQ Chicken Salad with cheddar, corn, black beans, tomato and avocado.

Mo’s is open daily for lunch and dinner, as well as late nights on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  In addition to dine-in and take-out, catering is available.

Mo’s Rhythm Kitchen is located at 154 West Gay Street in West Chester.  Visit www.mosrhythmkitchen.com or call (610) 429-1700 for more information.