My Mom said she always knew I would be a chef.  She recalls that while other children where making mud pies, I created well seasoned and decorated "cakes" that looked good enough to eat. I can remember being in the family kitchen -- the different smells, and roars of laughter, conversation, and the FOOD!!!! Like most Caribbean families, food is a very big part of everyday life.  Food became one of my greatest passions!  While helping my Mother in her Catering business, she taught me how to prepare wholesome foods using fresh ingredients with respect, love and care for those who ate it.  THIS is the standard that I live by.  Being raised in Jamaica and New York, I was exposed to Caribbean and International foods and found innovative ways to cook dishes with a Caribbean flare.

The concept of a Jamaican eatery that represented our island -- the culture, sights, sounds and flavors was born.  A place where people could come, enjoy a meal, good conversation, debate current events and participate in exciting domino matches, while soaking up our warm hospitality and spirit. 

My ex-husband, Lloyd Washington and I developed this vision after realizing that there were no places like this in Northern Virginia. In October 2005 - Jamaica Jamaica opened it's doors and welcomed those looking for home cooking and diversity. In November of that same year, we were featured in the Washington Post; it was one of my family's proudest moments.

Although my kitchen is industrial, the only difference between the way I cook here and at home, is the size of my pots.  I put the same love and attention into what I prepare for my extended family as I do for my immediate family. 

Over the years I have had the privilege to feed MANY including Redskins past and present (Renaldo Wynn, Chris Samuels, the late Sean Taylor, Anthony Montgomery, Sean Springs, Fred Smoot...and more).  I derive great satisfaction in seeing people well fed.

Regulars to Jamaica Jamaica become family. Customers recognize each other and are always greeted with what has become my signature "Hi baby, what are you having today?"  Daily items include jerk chicken, curry chicken, stew chicken, oxtail, and goat.  I prepare fish to order and can whip up specialty dishes if called in ahead. 

Music is always playing in the background -- usually Reggae. Musicians stop by often to show love and grace us with a song or two. Jamaica Jamaica is happening!