Our Town
W
ith the words “Chef Devin” scripted on his jacket and a welcoming smile, Devin Marshall, owner of Curbside on Fifth, is easy to spot from behind the counter.
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Story By: Mariah Rocker Photos By: Tayler Shaindlin Designed By: Vanessa Cruz
He works swiftly and diligently as he transitions between calling out orders, preparing meals and ringing up customers. On most days, it’s a oneman show. Curbside on Fifth is one of the most recent additions to downtown Ellensburg’s restaurant scene. Located in the small building behind the Elks building, this bite-sized joint promises big flavor and quick service. As a walk-up restaurant with from-scratch entrees, “Craveable” is their slogan. “I put a maximum of five minutes [per order],” Marshall says. “Any longer is rare.”
Livening up the neighborhood Like many small business owners on the block, Marshall wants to revive Fifth Avenue, and such an anecdote is indicative of success. Bringing business to Fifth Avenue and livening up the area are Marshall’s primary intentions, and he’s been working with the owners of Shooters and the Kabob House to make that happen. As an expansion of his original business, the Kittitas Chef, Marshall felt the need to bring his food to a wider audience, and explains he had two goals in mind: “One, to bring great food and great flavors, and two, to expose the history of this block.” This endeavor led Marshall to the Kittitas County Historical Museum, where he was able to learn about the town’s history and incorporate it into his business model and his menu. “I take a lot of time figuring out what I’m going to put on the menu,” Marshall says. If an item makes the cut, then the name must incorporate Ellensburg history.
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