Taste the Caribbean - Breezes Island Grill bringing authentic, diverse flavours to New York
Published:Thursday | October 29, 2020 | 12:06 AMKrysta Anderson/Staff Reporter
No sentiment has rung truer for the food of the tropics than, “You have to taste the culture to understand it.” One restaurant in the diaspora that has been using indigenous herbs and spices to create euphoric waves of fresh and bold flavours is Breezes Island Grill Restaurant and Lounge.
This gastronomic gem explores versatility in each and every melt-in-your-mouth offering. The menu is a pure reflection of the owners’ love for food and creative cooking. And the dedicated team, since the company’s inception, has gradually incorporated a few items crafted by their expert chef.
“We continue to add diversity to our menu for a wider selection for our customers,” Manager Nelecia Williamson told The Gleaner, of the restaurant which offers both casual and formal dining options.
Some of the crowd-pleasing favourites range from the ‘fully loaded’ snapper and seafood platter to the Irie Pasta, the signature meat lover’s oxtail, and the famous rum and raisin bread pudding. Customers not only rave about the delicious dishes, but they are truly impressed by the portion size and presentation as well. The customer service is impeccable, adding to the establishment’s quaint charm.
Located in New York, the Caribbean-inspired eatery jumped at the opportunity to open its doors after noticing a shortage of family-friendly restaurants in the area. Based on the great demand, the decision was made to tap into this sizzling market and satisfy the appetite of the demographic.
“Breezes Island Grill represents the Caribbean, providing relaxation, especially if one is on vacation, and authenticity in both food and drinks. We opened four years ago, and the reception has surpassed our expectation,” said Williamson.
What is important to note is that this small company, which continues to grow in savoury strides, is so consistent in the department of authenticity that it provides employment solely for Caribbean workers.
SURVIVING COVID CONDITIONS
The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc in unimaginable ways globally, and has put a damper on the daily running of businesses, locally and internationally. With most making the choice to stay safely indoors under COVID-19 restrictions, popular dine-in options, usually booked out by guests, are greatly affected. Despite these odds, the culinary company is determined to go the extra mile and meet the demands of foodies.
“Dealing with COVID has been nothing but challenging. It has not been easy, but we had to step up and accept the new normal, restrategising and coming up with a different game plan to widen our online, takeout and delivery services,” she shared. The systems implemented have since kept the restaurant up and running.
Her advice to others looking to start a Caribbean-infused food business abroad is to choose the ideal location and conduct extensive research.
“Create a business plan, but be optimistic and open-minded for changes. The food industry is a competitive but booming business, so always think outside the box. Once you have a passion for food and customer service, you will succeed.”
For more information, visit Breezes Island Grill Restaurant and Lounge at
230-06 South Conduit Ave, Rosedale, New York. Telephone: 718-527-5012, or email: info@breezesislandgrill.com.