MISSION STATEMENT

Our commitment is to create an environment of pleasure, relaxation and quality entertainment for all who enter our doors. We are committed to serving our customers with the highest regard. Their needs are our top priority.

OUR HISTORY

Brothers Calvin & Benny Shelby opened the doors to the Epicurean Restaurant and Lounge in late 1979, in the middle of the 7500 block of Troost Avenue. This small facility quickly became a popular gathering place for good food, drinks, and juke box entertainment. Calvin & Benny started their business with the philosophy of a safe and fun party atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

The clientele ranged from local businessmen to family and friends and grew rapidly, seemingly overnight. The Epicurean had the distinction of being a private club for members only, and the select group of members became instantly famous.

The membership card gave its' owner entrance to the club at no charge, with privileges like use of the club or restaurant for private parties, receptions and business meetings. Many of our social and civic groups began to regularly reserve the Epicurean for annual affairs, and the New Year's Eve Buffet quickly became an annual tradition for many friends, families, businesses and couples wishing to ring the New Year in with style.

Very soon, expansion would begin with the acquisition of the business next door, a beauty salon. Renovation of the building and re-decoration became an annual affair, as the Epicurean and its' surrounding businesses always re-opened with a new look and an even better setup for it's' ever growing customer base. The Shelby Brothers would continue their tradition of quiet but effective businessmen by enlarging their existing businesses to include the entire block. This latest venture, operated by Ben-Cal, would involve the expansion of the Epicurean including installation of two bars and tri-level seating.

Many changes have taken place over the years, but the Shelby 's have kept many things the same. The restaurant has a tradition for good food to go along with the good times, and the popularity of its' Chicken Wings and Pan-Fried Catfish have made them the feature items on the menu for both dine-in and carry-out customers. For all of its growth, the Epicurean has held onto a steadfast tradition of being the “In-Spot” for the classy and mature.

Expansion has not always been an in-house thing, and in late 1992, the Shelby 's opened the doors to a new location: Bodyworks. The concept of Bodyworks would be the same as that of the Epicurean, but targeted towards a younger crowd. The need for a safe, fun, classy environment for the next generation of clientele brought about the birth of Bodyworks and the upbeat, contemporary flavor keeps the doors open and the dance floor packed.

The competitive nature of the entertainment business has constantly challenged this team, but creativity, vision and sheer determination have been strong components of their continued success. Calvin, Benny, and the entire staff of the Epicurean and Bodyworks have maintained excellent service in the entertainment business for over 20 years. They have continually made changes in the structure and improvements on the quality of their service, but the end has not yet come for them in this area.

An important part of any business should be its willingness to give back to the very community that led to its success. The Shelby Brothers have done just that, sponsoring many local youth athletic teams and organizations, working hard to support other local businesses and generating many business opportunities. Those efforts have garnered them several accolades from city officials, including Business Men of the Year, and have earned their clubs several awards for “Best Nightclub”. Ben-Cal believes in its community, and will strive to leave a legacy dedicated to youth and the empowerment of people, young and old alike.

To carry on the legacy of the Shelby Brothers,“Just Cuzzin's” Entertainment, owned and operated by Andrea Shelby and Sean Crain, are taking the Epicurean and Bodyworks to the next level for your entertainment experience. By offering a variety of entertainment including comedians, concerts, VIP parties and much, much more. Andrea and Sean are ready to re-establish a place on the map for the Epicurean and Bodyworks.

Many changes have taken place over the years, but the Shelby's have kept many things the same. The restaurant has a tradition for good food to go along with the good times, and the popularity of its' Chicken Wings and Pan-Fried Catfish have made them the feature items on the menu for both dine-in and carry-out customers. For all of its growth, the Epicurean has held onto a steadfast tradition of being the “In-Spot” for the classy and mature.

Calvin and Benny Shelby