By Emily Luther
Wilmington is filling up on more than just food at The Foxes Boxes, a new kind of eatery in the Brooklyn Arts District. Randy and Rachel Fox opened the historic doors of The Foxes Boxes in 2016 with the help of their kids—Isabel, Jackson, and Henry.
Having worked in the restaurant industry for many years, this was a natural business venture for Randy. While Randy was in the kitchen, Rachel was pursuing her interests within public administration. The Fox’s reached a magical moment where they decided it was time to marry their interests and do something together that would help them realize their own economic and personal growth, but that would also achieve growth in the community they were to impact.
While Randy is busy developing new flavors for his dishes, Rachel is busy working on The Foxes Boxes Externship Program. This program was always at the forefront in helping motivate and guide the conceptualization and spirit behind the restaurant. The Foxes Boxes is joining forces with local community organizations to provide a job training program incorporating leadership skills, interpersonal skills, and a work ethic that helps empower individuals to feel motivated and confident to go out in the local work force and obtain jobs within the local service industry. This paid externship program requires a commitment of 240 work hours, lasting between 8-10 weeks. The Foxes Boxes has already had several individuals successfully complete the program to find employment afterwards.
It was serendipitous and coincidental that this 1920’s venue would become available during the most opportune time for the Fox family. They knew this location could be the foundation for their fresh new restaurant concept. The interior is quite lovely in its simplistic architectural beauty. There is a definite minimalist style with fun elements of home that help create a sense of warmth.
The Foxes Boxes is very proud of their partnership with the Dreams Center for Arts and Education. Through this program they are able to showcase some of the talented young artists in our community. Artwork rotates on a monthly basis, so be sure to check out the walls for the newest talent. The Foxes Boxes strives to be “that spot for all people in the community,” explains Rachel. They want to be the place that can accommodate all budgets, which is why their menu provides a range of boxes from $6-$12. The one thing that they all have in common – fresh food with big, yummy flavor.
The menu was developed from items the Fox family enjoyed eating while growing up. You will find Falafel Sliders and Cuban Pork Sandwiches in their menu, accompanied by sides such as Fresh Fruit, and Carrots with Ginger Salad. Don’t pass the opportunity to try their family favorite, Bacon, Egg and Cheese Waffle Stack. There are daily features to their everyday menu such as Pork Carnitas and Spicy Beef Taquitos. Vegetarian or Vegan – no problem, they’ve got you covered. The Foxes Boxes and their incredible food is really just a facade for the great work that is taking place behind the scenes. It is designed by family-for family.
“I just love each and every person that walks through these doors,” states Rachel. While the Fox’s finish up their first year in business, they expect future expansion in the coming years. Keep your eye on The Foxes Boxes making a continued and ongoing impact within the community…..and I am not referring to just their flavorful menu options!
Emily Luther is a Broker with Nest Realty Wilmington. Emily’s goal is to always exceed her clients’ expectations while making real estate exciting and transparent!