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Shaker Square Restaurateur Who Hires Former Inmates Tells Akron Audience Why it Works

By Sarah Taylor

Published February 21, 2019 at 11:17 PM EST

Edwin's Restaurant owner Brandon Chrostowski visited briefly with Buchtel HS culinary students and their teacher after his Akron Roundtable address at Quaker Station. He paused for a photograph with senior Cashmere Peterson. [Sarah Taylor / WKSU] — Edwin's Restaurant owner Brandon Chrostowski visited briefly with Buchtel HS culinary students and their teacher after his Akron Roundtable address at Quaker Station. He paused for a photograph with senior Cashmere Peterson.

A criminal record often makes it difficult to find employment. But a Cleveland chef has found success employing former prison inmates. Brandon Chrostowski of Edwin’s Restaurant in Shaker Square told the Akron Roundtable Thursday it’s about giving people confidence and skill.

Edwin's Leadership & Restaurant Institute co-founder Brandon Edwin Chrostowski shared details of his program, that creates a "culture of care" to help the formerly incarcerated develop sought-after skills and confidence.

“The NFL has no problem hiring someone who’s been in prison because they have an elite skill that can make or save them money. In business it’s no different. Our grads have 55 jobs waiting to hire. They have an elite skill that can make or save someone money.”

Chrostowski runs a six-month training program in prisons, which has grown to include the restaurant, housing for his trainees, and a butcher shop that recently opened in Shaker Square.

Chrostowski has served as a consultant for a Medina restaurant, Serenite, which employs those recovering from addiction.