A brand-new Caribbean restaurant is set to open in the heart of town.
Geez Jerk House will be bringing an authentic taste of the Caribbean to Bridge Street in Kidderminster.
Owner Gina Capecci, who started Gees Kitchen in 2023, said she wanted to bring something new to the town.
The mum-of-one said: “We’re really excited to open. We are a family female run business. We feel women need an environment where they feel welcome and safe.
“I started the business in 2023 doing events and pop-ups. I took over a place in Dudley and we also used to have a premises in Old Hill. We’d been interested in opening somewhere in Kidderminster for a while, so when this space came up, it was such a relief to finally find the right place.
“We do a lot of events in Stourport and Kidderminster, so we know the hype for Caribbean food is there.”
Customers can expect Caribbean themes night with a “chilled and mellow” vibe.
There will be a big cocktail and mocktail menu along with fresh fruit platters and all your favourite Caribbean food from jerk chicken to stuffed dumplings.
A kids’ menu is on offer for families whilst Sunday roasts will also be available with bookings now open for Father’s Day on Sunday (June 21).
Ms Capecci, who is from Dudley, said: “We’re hoping to extend the licence so we can open a bit later and have food collection through Uber. We’re also looking to have a little DJ on a weekend.
“We wanted to create a space for the older generation to come and relax and have an authentic Caribbean experience in Kidderminster.
“It’s a family business that is female-run. I’ve got a seven-year-old daughter, so we’re also very family-oriented.”
The restaurant used to be home to Drag Me Out before it closed this year with Ms Capecci and the team completing a full renovation of the site in a green, white and gold theme.
The grand opening is set to take place in a few weeks when the licensing has been approved.
Ms Capecci, who will be running the kitchen, said the opening will be a “big celebration” with free samples, a bouncy castle and more to enjoy.
She said: “So many people have already reached out to us from Kidderminster especially on TikTok. Our post went viral and it’s lovely that people are so supportive. We’ve had success with our events and at our other shop, so we can’t wait to bring our restaurant to Kidderminster.
“We’d encourage the community to get behind us and even if you’ve never experienced Caribbean food before just come down and give it a try.
“It’s something completely new for the town – there’s nothing like it. There is already a good nightlife in Kidderminster with so many venues opening up, so it feels like the perfect time to open.”
The business is looking for staff, including in the kitchen, with on the job training offered.
The team said it could be a good opportunity for a school leaver.
CVs can be sent to geeskitchen23@gmail.com
To find out more about Geez Jerk House and to view the menu visit https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576529767013
