While attending Auburn University, Bo Hamilton spent a few summers living, playing and cooking at ski resorts in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. He discovered that being in the kitchen was something that he really enjoyed. When classes resumed, he worked the remainder of his undergraduate years at Auburn’s Terra Cotta Cafe. After graduating, Bo and buddy, Matt Heim, partnered to open a fine dining restaurant. They were the proprietors of J. William in Auburn. The property the restaurant was located on was ultimately sold. The guys were able to sell the business which resulted in the end of a four year run and the beginning a new career journey for each partner.

Bo moved to his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama and accepted a job utilizing his marketing degree. During that time he met his wife, Molly, who is from Oxford, Mississippi. The newlyweds decided to move to Jackson, Wyoming where Bo could revisit his happy place and resume doing what he enjoyed so much as a student. While in Wyoming, the couple started making plans for Hamilton to create something of his own. After the birth of their first child, the couple decided that they needed to be closer to family. They planned their descent home with a business plan in hand and set their sights on Oxford, Mississippi.

After giving some thought about the limited outdoor recreational options for their young family, the Hamiltons decided they needed to explore a coastal location. They visited the Eastern Shore this past April and after 10 days, they dropped their pin on Fairhope, Alabama. The Hamilton’s arrived at their destination last October and Bo reports that “things pretty much fell right into place”.

Hamilton found a spot at Fairhope’s Windmill Market and has been hard at work getting things up and running at OX KITCHEN. His a la carte menu utilizes techniques he procured during his fine dining days and focuses on simplicity. “With very little waste and a minimal staff, you can sell a burger for $6.50” says Hamilton, “You don’t have to reinvent the wheel if you make a really good wheel”. The Ox Kitchen menu boasts of the basics with accents of originality. Try an Ox Burger, Ox Chicken Sandwich (grilled or fried), a Fried Gulf Oyster BLT or a Pork & Greens Sandwich. The Pecan Smoked Wings are flash fried and served with Alabama White Sauce.

Sides are separate and generous. Options include house fries, side salad, collard greens or mac & cheese. If you are looking to go lighter try a Chopped Southern Salad with grilled or fried chicken or a Berry & Feta Salad with grilled chicken. The kiddos won’t be able to complain either! They get to choose from grilled cheese, mac & cheese, fried chicken, grilled chicken or berries. Look for daily specials to be added and be sure to ask about their Ox Fries.

The Ox Kitchen is currently open for lunch Monday through Saturday from 11am until 3pm and Friday for dinner from 5pm until 9pm.