The words “gourmet” and “restaurant” make me think of sitting down in slick leather booths and metal tables to enjoy grease-free food that isn’t wrapped in paper. It makes the moment more authentic — something you don’t get eating a Sonic burger at home alone with your dog.
That’s why I was caught off guard by Scratch — a gourmet express and catering restaurant in Prairie Village that switches out their menu every week, Crumbl Cookie-style. The new restaurant gives you the chance to have that five-star dine-in experience, but in the comfort of your own home.
Since I noticed that Scratch’s right in the middle of the East community, I decided to check it out for myself. With the quick, top-notch food and desired location, it’s perfect for a quick stop between running errands at Houston’s Hardware for my dad.
When I first arrived, I didn’t know what to expect since I’m accustomed to thrown-together takeout meals from Panda Express or McDonald’s. It’s food, but not restaurant food. All of my worries melted away just like the cheese on my lasagna when I tore open my to-go box.
Family events on my mom’s — very Sicilian — side are always packed with spaghetti, bread, lasagna, you name it. So when the layers of parmesan, meat and pasta came together, it brought me that familiar feeling of family dinners with loved ones.
Lasagna can be difficult to get right since the layers can melt together, ruining what should be a multi-flavored dish. But Scratch got their lasagna just right. I could taste every layer and distinguish each flavor from one another, even the spices used to marinate the meat inside.
The zestful chicken parmesan and spaghetti with garlic breadsticks reminded me of times spent at my Nani’s house — the peak of childhood comfort. Plus, the s’mores cupcakes for dessert were just the right amount of gooey delightess. You could see it on my family’s faces, as my mom’s eyes lit up and my sister pestered me for more of my meal. It completely outpaced any dine-in restaurant for me.
While you can rent out the indoor dining area for small events, Scratch’s main selling point is that they’re a gourmet express restaurant. From ten in the morning to 4 p.m., you can place an order that’ll be ready to pickup anytime before 7 pm. All it takes is one short phone call with their friendly staff and you’re golden.
When I went to pick up my food, I was surprised by the tiny event space inside — replace the stalls with tables, and you’ll see the entire restaurant is about the size of the East Bathrooms.
Despite its size, the event area was well put-together, sporting a wall decorated with bottles of seemingly expensive wine. The space gave off a classy atmosphere that felt like a perfect location for small birthday dinners and sport banquets.
To surmise, Scratch elevates your dining experience by selling the feeling of home and giving your family a reason to gather around the kitchen table — just ask my family. A good restaurant makes you remember the food, but an amazing restaurant — like Scratch — makes you remember why you came: to have a memorable time.