In 2013, with nothing but a suitcase of old recipes and his mother’s blessing, James opened Jerkiz on Evelina Road. It was a tiny kitchen, but it was all heart. He cooked not just to feed himself, but to share the warmth of his Jamaican roots with a city he now called home.

The early days were tough. James worked two jobs, fired up the grill before sunrise, and hustled till closing, serving one loyal customer at a time. But word travels fast when food is cooked with soul. The smoky aroma of jerk chicken, the spice of curry goat, and the comfort of fried plantain drew people in. They came hungry, but they left with more than full bellies—they left with memories.

James never cut corners. Every marinade is made from scratch, every portion is generous, every smile behind the counter is real. His food is an invitation to belong, whether you’re fresh from work, missing home, or just looking for a proper meal that fills you up in every way.

Over ten years later, Jerkiz has grown, but nothing’s changed at its core. We’re still here, seven days a week, welcoming neighbours, families, and anyone who loves a good story told through food. For us, every dish is a celebration of Jamaican culture—a thank you to the community that believed in James’s dream.

At Jerkiz, you don’t just eat—you become part of the family. Our kitchen is your kitchen. Our table is your table. And no matter where you come from, there’s always a place for you here.