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The Excel project

Innovator Spotlight Feature: Cravin Jamaican Cuisine Expands in Mount Vernon

The Excel Project Community Spotlight Feature



Mount Vernon welcomed more than just a new restaurant in 2025. It welcomed a growing force in the local food scene that brings authentic Jamaican flavors and a strong sense of community.


Cravin Jamaican Cuisine officially opened its third location, a milestone that reflects a decade of dedication to quality, culture, and connection.

This expansion is more than a business success story. It is a celebration of heritage, entrepreneurship, and the power of food to unite diverse communities. Let’s explore how Cravin Jamaican Cuisine has grown, what it offers, and why its new Mount Vernon location matters.



A Decade of Authentic Jamaican Flavors


Since opening its first location in 2015, Cravin Jamaican Cuisine has built a reputation for serving authentic, home-cooked Jamaican meals. Owner Peter Murdock and his experienced team focus on using the finest ingredients to recreate traditional dishes that satisfy cravings and evoke nostalgia.


The menu features beloved Jamaican staples such as:


  • Jerk chicken with perfectly balanced spices

  • Tender curry goat slow-cooked to perfection

  • Rice and peas made with coconut milk for rich flavor

  • Freshly baked festival bread and plantains


Each dish reflects the care and heritage behind the recipes, offering customers a genuine taste of Jamaica. This commitment to authenticity has earned Cravin a loyal following across its locations.



Building Community Through Cuisine


Cravin Jamaican Cuisine is more than a place to eat. It is a hub where culture and community come together. The grand opening of the Mount Vernon location attracted local leaders, supporters, and food lovers who gathered to celebrate the brand’s growth and impact.


Among the attendees was Apostle Dr. Faith Walters, President of The Excel Project, who emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship that creates jobs, preserves cultural heritage, and strengthens local economies. Cravin’s expansion is a clear example of these values in action.


The restaurant’s mission goes beyond food. It aims to:


  • Create employment opportunities in the community

  • Preserve and share Jamaican culture through cuisine

  • Foster connections among diverse groups of people


This approach has helped Cravin Jamaican Cuisine become a beloved part of the neighborhoods it serves.


Embracing Digital Connections


Cravin Jamaican Cuisine is expanding its reach beyond physical locations with a new digital newsletter. This initiative keeps customers connected and engaged with the brand in fresh ways.


Subscribers to the newsletter will enjoy:


  • Announcements about new menu items and products

  • Exclusive discount offers to reward loyal customers

  • A Jamaican Recipe of the Week to try at home

  • Invitations to special events and community gatherings

  • Behind-the-scenes looks at the kitchen and cooking process

  • Spotlights on customers and their stories


This digital expansion complements the restaurant’s physical growth, helping Cravin build a stronger, more connected family of fans.


The Significance of Three Locations


Opening a third location within ten years is a clear sign of Cravin Jamaican Cuisine’s strength and consistency. It shows that the brand has:


  • Maintained steady demand for its authentic offerings

  • Managed operations effectively to support growth

  • Earned deep loyalty from its community


In a competitive restaurant market, this kind of expansion reflects more than just good food. It reflects trust, quality, and a meaningful connection with customers.


What the New Mount Vernon Location Brings


The new Cravin Jamaican Cuisine in Mount Vernon offers residents and visitors a convenient spot to enjoy authentic Jamaican dishes made with care. It also serves as a cultural touchstone, inviting people to experience the flavors and stories of Jamaica.


This location features:


  • A welcoming atmosphere with vibrant Jamaican decor

  • Friendly staff trained to deliver excellent service

  • A menu that honors traditional recipes while welcoming innovation

  • Community events that celebrate Jamaican culture and heritage


By opening here, Cravin strengthens its presence in a diverse and dynamic community eager for authentic culinary experiences.


Join the Cravin Family


Cravin Jamaican Cuisine’s journey from a single restaurant to a three-location brand is a story of passion, culture, and community. It shows how food can bring people together and create opportunities.


If you want to experience the rich flavors of Jamaica or stay connected with the Cravin family, visit their website and subscribe to their newsletter at https://www.cravinjc.com/.



Ready to share your impact with a wider audience? Apply to be featured in our next Excel Spotlight and let your story inspire communities everywhere at TheExcelProject.com/spotlight.



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