Roots run deep here.
Kris Bateman
Kris was born and raised in Edenton. He went to school here. Before he cooked, he was an artist — painting and drawing. That instinct never left; it just found a new medium.
He'd always pictured himself running a high-end French restaurant. COVID changed those plans, but not the craft. At Downtown Roots, he uses classic French technique in new ways, on simple things like sandwiches and salads, for people who might never try them otherwise.
"Every dish is a mix of three things: flavor, texture, and temperature. Getting all of those just right is an art."
— Kris Bateman
A town that throws its arms around you.
Downtown Roots is an ode to the deep roots Kris has in this community. When he opened, he had no idea what would happen — the world was still adjusting. But Edenton embraced the shop in ways he never imagined.
Along Broad Street, most businesses are run by people who live here. They solve problems together, support each other, and recommend each other. It's a storybook Southern town — and Downtown Roots is proud to be part of its next chapter.
Meet some of the team
Stop by, say hello, and grab a sandwich. You'll love it.
— Kris Bateman, Edenton, NC 27932