House built 1915

Chimney in kitchen, had a leak in roof due to poor roofing on saddle. That problem is fixed, but leak ran down side of chimney, ruining really bad 'fake brick' paneling. Also caused most of plaster finish to bubble off chimney brick.

Removong plaster revealed brick chimney that adds character to kitchen.

What should be used to 1, clean bricks and 2, seal them to prevent additional dust from bricks or mortar and to seal against splash's from grease, etc. Chimney is next to cook-top.

Finally, the location for what I assume to be the original cook-stove to vent to chimney is visable. Decorating ideas?

Thank you