Esmie’s Caribbean Flavors of St. Kitts Arrive in Birmingham, UK

A vibrant culinary partnership has blossomed in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, uniting the established neighbourhood charm of Temper & Brown with the authentic Caribbean flavours of Esmie’s Caribbean Fusion. This collaboration, spearheaded by pub owner Roifield Brown and fueled by the culinary legacy of Esmie, a St. Kitts native, promises a tantalizing new dining experience. Reopened in July 2023, Temper & Brown, located on Albion Street and boasting a hidden courtyard oasis, is now set to offer a menu infused with the warmth and spice of island cuisine, featuring dishes like Jerk Chicken Skewers and Curry Mutton, crafted with recipes passed down through generations.

Esmie’s culinary journey began on the sun-kissed shores of St. Kitts, where her passion for cooking ignited later in life. Upon moving to the UK at the age of 20, she found herself drawn back to the vibrant flavours of her Caribbean heritage. This reconnection led her to embark on a street food venture in 2004, where she quickly gained a devoted following, captivated by her innovative creations, most notably her signature fried dumpling burger. This unique dish showcased her ability to blend traditional ingredients with a creative flair, foreshadowing the culinary success that would follow.

Now, Esmie’s culinary legacy is carried forward by her daughter, Heaven-Leigh, who has embraced the family business with a renewed energy and a contemporary perspective. Esmie’s Caribbean Fusion, under Heaven-Leigh’s guidance, continues to honour the time-honoured recipes and bold flavours that define Caribbean cuisine, all while embracing a fresh, modern approach. This ensures that the essence of Esmie’s original vision remains intact while also appealing to a new generation of food enthusiasts eager to experience the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean flavours.

The partnership between Esmie’s Caribbean Fusion and Temper & Brown is built on a shared foundation of passion – a passion for exceptional food, vibrant music, the importance of family, and the creation of memorable experiences. Roifield Brown, owner of Temper & Brown, recognizes the synergy between the two entities, emphasizing the authenticity and love infused into every dish prepared by Esmie and now carried forward by Heaven-Leigh. He expresses confidence that their patrons will be captivated by the incredible flavours and the warm hospitality that defines both establishments. This collaboration promises a dining experience that transcends mere sustenance, offering a taste of Caribbean culture and the heart-warming stories behind the dishes.

Among the standout dishes offered at Temper & Brown is Esmie’s Jerk Chicken Skewers, a dish deeply rooted in nostalgia and family tradition. For Esmie, the smoky, spicy aroma of jerk chicken evokes cherished memories of family gatherings, with her mother presiding over the stove and her father playfully sneaking tastes from the simmering pot. Each bite is a sensory journey back to those treasured moments, seated around the family table, surrounded by laughter and love. This dish exemplifies the power of food to connect us to our roots and evoke a sense of belonging. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of family recipes and the emotional resonance they carry.

The launch of Esmie’s Caribbean Fusion at Temper & Brown marks a significant culinary moment in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, offering a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant tapestry of Caribbean flavours in a warm and inviting setting. Beginning March 4th, diners can embark on this culinary adventure, savouring dishes that tell a story and connect them to a rich cultural heritage. For those eager to explore this exciting new culinary collaboration, further information can be found on the Temper & Brown website at www.temperandbrown.com or by following their Instagram account @temperandbrown. This partnership promises a delicious and heartwarming dining experience that celebrates the power of food to bring people together.