Barrington’s Jamaican Kitchen: A Community’s Heartbeat in Crisis

by Jameelah Mullen
April 11, 2025
Teamwork makes the dream work.

In the vibrant city of Bakersfield, California, a beloved Jamaican restaurant, Barrington’s Jamaican Kitchen, has found itself in a tough spot. The eatery, known for its mouthwatering jerk chicken and warm, inviting atmosphere, has closed its doors due to financial struggles. Owner Barrington Lewis is now reaching out to the community for help to bring this cherished local gem back to life.

Barrington opened his restaurant in 2017, quickly becoming a favorite among locals who craved authentic Jamaican flavors. “When you walk through those doors, it feels like home,” said one loyal customer, reflecting the restaurant’s welcoming vibe. However, the COVID-19 pandemic hit hard, bringing with it capacity limits and soaring inflation that left many small businesses gasping for air. Lewis shared his frustration, stating, “I fell short of getting the financial support that the nation was getting. They exhausted the money that was meant for small businesses like mine.”

Despite the challenges, Lewis remained committed to his community. He prioritized keeping prices affordable, even as costs for supplies and operations doubled. “I didn’t want to raise prices on my customers. They’ve supported me through thick and thin,” he explained. Unfortunately, this noble intention led to falling behind on rent, and his landlord ultimately terminated the lease, forcing him to seek a new location.

After securing a new building just five minutes from his original spot, Lewis had hoped to reopen on April 1. However, financial constraints have delayed those plans. “I’m struggling to gather the funds needed for equipment, supplies, and the rental deposit,” he lamented. To rally support, he launched a GoFundMe campaign, aiming to raise $20,000 to cover these essential costs.

The community has rallied around Lewis, who has a history of giving back. He often provided free meals to those in need, embodying the spirit of “One Love” that Jamaica is known for. “I just want to reconnect with my customers,” he said, reminiscing about the bonds he’s built over the years. “They’re not just patrons; they’re family.”

As the days pass, the anticipation for Barrington’s Jamaican Kitchen to reopen grows. Local residents are eager to return to their favorite spot, where they can enjoy delicious food and a sense of belonging. “It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s a place where we gather, celebrate, and share stories,” one frequent diner expressed.

While Lewis has yet to announce a specific reopening date, the community’s support is unwavering. With each donation to his GoFundMe, hope flickers brighter. “We’re all in this together,” he said, embodying the essence of teamwork that can make dreams come true.

As the journey continues, one question lingers: Will Barrington’s Jamaican Kitchen rise again, stronger than ever, to serve the flavors and warmth that have brought so many together? The answer lies in the hands of the community that loves it.