A local Jamaican food truck will soon launch its first brick-and-mortar restaurant.
Ryan and Ebony Meeks, the husband-and-wife duo behind Memphis Jamaican Kitchen, are gearing up to open their first sit-down eatery at 1354 Madison Ave in Midtown, formerly home to Soul Haven.
Ryan, a Jamaica native, met Ebony in his homeland before moving to Atlanta, where he worked at his aunt’s restaurant, Contreju Jamaican. The couple’s bond grew across the miles, eventually bringing Ryan to Memphis.
The Meeks debuted their food truck in 2019, quickly building a loyal following with their authentic Jamaican dishes like oxtail, sweet plantains, jerk chicken, and patties.
In the summer of 2023, the truck was stolen but swiftly recovered the same day, thanks to the community’s overwhelming support. Moved by this outpouring of love, the Meeks decided to expand their vision with a permanent location—a dream now coming to life.
The new restaurant will feature all of Memphis Jamaican’s signature staples alongside breakfast options such as eggs with plantain, codfish with fried breadfruit, and boiled cassava, according to Memphis Business Journal.
The couple is currently transforming the Madison Ave space with upgraded equipment, reupholstered seating, and vibrant touches inspired by the Jamaican flag to create the feel of a tropical getaway.
Memphis Jamaican Kitchen plans to celebrate its grand opening before the end of January 2025.
