OUR STORY
The Story of COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket
Where Heritage
Meets Hospitality
At COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket, we're more than a restaurant—we're keepers of Evansville's culinary soul. Our story begins in 1983 with the original Cross-Eyed Cricket, a beloved local diner known for its hearty portions and welcoming atmosphere. Today, in our beautifully restored historic downtown building, we honor that legacy while redefining Southern comfort food for a new generation.
Where Heritage
Meets Hospitality
At COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket, we're more than a restaurant—we're keepers of Evansville's culinary soul. Our story begins in 1983 with the original Cross-Eyed Cricket, a beloved local diner known for its hearty portions and welcoming atmosphere. Today, in our beautifully restored historic downtown building, we honor that legacy while redefining Southern comfort food for a new generation.
A Downtown
Landmark
Our Five-story building opened as the Washington House Hotel in 1855 has been:
Meticulously restored (refurbished hardwood floors)
A Downtown
Landmark
Our Five-story building opened as the Washington House Hotel in 1855 has been:
- Meticulously restored (refurbished hardwood floors)
When the Tudela Food Group revived the concept in 2018, they committed to:
- Preserving the Cricket's most beloved recipes (like our famous buttermilk fried chicken)
- Elevating ingredients through relationships with 20+ local farms.
- Creating a multi-dimensional dining experience across four unique spaces
Today, we honor that legacy while pushing boundaries with:
- Award-winning smoked meats (18-hour brisket, St. Louis ribs)
- Seasonal Southern dishes that change weekly
- An acclaimed bourbon program featuring rare Kentucky finds
Meet The Team
Christen
Director Of Operations
Christen is a results-driven hospitality executive overseeing Tudela Restaurant Group’s portfolio, including Nando Wood-Fired Steak & Seafood and COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket. With over 15 years in restaurant management, Christen combines operational strategy, team development, and culinary expertise to drive consistent guest experiences and business growth. Passionate about mentorship and training, they foster high-performing, engaged teams across all concepts.
%201.png)
Zach
Culinary Director
Chef Zach brings refined technique and innovative menu design to Tudela Restaurant Group. A Stratford Culinary Institute graduate, he has led kitchens in Washington, D.C., and Indianapolis, including Komi, RPM Italian, and Nesso. Zach combines creativity, ingredient-focused cooking, and thoughtful leadership to deliver exceptional dining experiences.
Meet The Team
Christen
Director Of Operations
Christen is a results-driven hospitality executive overseeing Tudela Restaurant Group’s portfolio, including Nando Wood-Fired Steak & Seafood and COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket. With over 15 years in restaurant management, Christen combines operational strategy, team development, and culinary expertise to drive consistent guest experiences and business growth. Passionate about mentorship and training, they foster high-performing, engaged teams across all concepts.
Zach
Culinary Director
Christen is a results-driven hospitality executive overseeing Tudela Restaurant Group’s portfolio, including Nando Wood-Fired Steak & Seafood and COMFORT by the Cross-Eyed Cricket. With over 15 years in restaurant management, Christen combines operational strategy, team development, and culinary expertise to drive consistent guest experiences and business growth. Passionate about mentorship and training, they foster high-performing, engaged teams across all concepts.
Come Be Part of Our Story
We invite you to:
Sip progress at The Hideaway bourbon bar
Make memories in our event spaces
.png){kind=logo}