In an industry often marked by high turnover and fleeting ventures, the transition of a beloved local restaurant into the hands of its most dedicated staff signals a powerful commitment to continuity and community. Basic Kitchen, a Charleston staple, is embarking on a new era as its founders, Ben and Kate Towill, prepare to relocate to England. Rather than an external sale, this change involves a thoughtful and strategic elevation of two of its most pivotal team members. Longtime employees Eva Suarez and Executive Chef Charlie Layton are stepping into new roles as operating partners, a move that grants them partial ownership and entrusts them with the full scope of the restaurant’s daily operations. This decision has received the enthusiastic endorsement of the founders, with Ben Towill expressing immense confidence in Suarez and Layton, whom he credits as being instrumental to the restaurant’s sustained success. The transition ensures that the heart and soul of Basic Kitchen remain in the hands of those who have helped shape its identity from the inside.
A Foundation of Dedication and Expertise
The new leadership duo brings a profound and complementary blend of experience that has been cultivated within the very walls of Basic Kitchen. Eva Suarez’s history with the establishment is as deep as it gets; she was a key member of the original team that launched the restaurant back in 2017. Her journey has provided her with an unparalleled understanding of its operational intricacies, guest relations, and vital role within the Charleston community. Her expertise in hospitality has been a cornerstone of the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere. Meanwhile, Executive Chef Charlie Layton has been the creative mastermind behind the menu’s distinct and celebrated character. Originally from England, Chef Layton has championed a culinary philosophy centered on seasonal, produce-driven dishes. His menus skillfully weave together whole grains and globally inspired flavors, resulting in popular offerings like the vibrant Fattoush salad, the hearty Shawarma bowl, and the iconic grass-fed “Naughty Burger,” a dish that perfectly balances indulgence with quality ingredients, reflecting the restaurant’s core ethos.
Cultivating Continuity and Future Growth
With the leadership structure solidified, the future for Basic Kitchen was set on a course that honored its past while embracing organic growth. Suarez and Layton’s shared vision was not one of radical change, but of thoughtful enhancement. They planned to build upon the restaurant’s strong foundation by introducing new experiences and collaborations that would further cement its status as a cornerstone of the Charleston food scene. A key part of their strategy involved maintaining active participation in local culinary events, reinforcing the strong community ties the establishment has always valued. At its heart, the mission remained unchanged, a sentiment best captured by Suarez’s goal of “creating honest food that makes people feel good.” This enduring philosophy was supported by the unwavering dedication of the front- and back-of-house teams, who were essential partners in this new chapter. The transition ultimately stood as a testament to the founders’ belief in their team and a forward-thinking model for preserving a restaurant’s unique culture.
