Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant, the largest Caribbean franchise chain in the nation, boasting over 110 restaurants across eight states, marked the one-year anniversary of its new Palmetto Bay location this past weekend. The celebration was a vibrant affair, drawing in community leaders, cherished customers, and a special appearance by Rohan Marley, the son of Reggae legend Bob Marley.
The festivities treated Floridians to complimentary samples of Golden Krust’s renowned Jamaican-style patties and delectable jerk chicken.
Attendees were further entertained with face painting, a skilled stilt walker, and lively beats courtesy of DJ Sanjay and Waggy Tee Movements from 99 Jamz. Leading the event was Steven Clarke, Vice President of Marketing at Golden Krust, ensuring a memorable and engaging experience for all.
A beloved Caribean brand
The Golden Krust Palmetto Bay location is owned by Andrew and Michelle McKinley, both born and raised in Jamaica and migrated to the United States to further their education.
The McKinleys have actively engaged with the community, frequently sponsoring various events such as golf outings and basketball tournaments. They’ve also collaborated with Circle House Studios for Reggae Month earlier this year.
Andrew expressed their enthusiasm for being part of such a reputable brand, citing Golden Krust’s impressive track record and exceptional food quality.
“It’s the largest owned Caribbean franchise and they have an amazing track record. The founder Lowell Hawthorne and his family built an amazing, solid brand. The quality of the food is exceptional and the taste is great. And even though it started in New York, it’s now known in those key places across the diaspora in the United States, and South Florida is one of those places,” he told Caribbean National Weekly.
Read: Golden Krust’s Lowell Hawthorne dead at age 57
Aside from being beloved by Caribbean nationals in the diaspora, it’s also popular among celebrities in the United States. Jamaican comedian and actor Oliver Samuels, DJ Khaled, Lizzo, Rihanna, and cricketer Chris Gayle are among the famous faces spotted at Golden Krust locations over the years.
In addition to an appearance from Marley at this weekend’s celebration, other special guests included Palmetto Bay Village Mayor Karyn Cunningham, Miami-Dade Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins, and Executive Director of Chamber of Commerce Melissa Cancio. Several South Florida Golden Krust Franchisees joined the celebratory ribbon cutting to support the McKinley family. Beverages were provided by our partners Vita Coco, Red Bull, and Bigga.
What’s on the menu?
The menu at Golden Krust remains faithful to its signature offerings, featuring an extensive selection of Jamaican patties, traditional dishes like jerk chicken, brown stew chicken, and braised oxtail, as well as beloved bakery classics such as spice bun, hard dough bread, and carrot cake. Additionally, patrons can enjoy daily chef’s specials and explore vegetarian and beyond-meat alternatives.
At this particular Golden Krust location, new menu additions like the jerk BBQ baby back ribs add excitement for customers seeking a Caribbean culinary experience. Andrew expressed his desire to cater to a broader audience appreciative of Caribbean cuisine.
Setting itself apart from other franchises, this branch exudes an upscale ambiance with local art adorning the walls and chic decor throughout. The owners have intentionally infused art and music to craft a culturally enriching space, aiming to attract a diverse clientele beyond the Caribbean community.
Another aim for the owners is to break the stigma attached to Jamaican restaurants as it relates to customer service. Andrew said that it is quite possible to get both “delicious food and good customer service” from a Jamaican restaurant and that’s what Golden Krust wants to achieve.
The pair is planning to expand to other locations within the next year.
Golden Krust Palmetto Bay is open now. Visit 9534 Southwest 160th Street, Miami, FL, Monday through Thursday, 8 AM to 7 PM, and Friday and Saturday, 8 AM to 8 PM. Delivery is available through Uber Eats, DoorDash, and EZ Cater.
