Hailing from Montego Bay Kaysilyn Lawson has for the past 11 years called NYC home, where she has worked in the restaurant industry. Energy and passion are hallmarks of her personality and this has endeared her to a number of restaurateurs including the Miss Lily’s proprietors and former boss Marcus Samuelsson. Lawson has overseen the opening first impressions of a number of restaurants and, despite her hectic schedule, finds time to participate in charitable endeavours. We caught up with Lawson in her hometown and got to know her a bit better.

What’s your beverage of choice?

Martini – Gin not Vodka – or a glass of Chablis.

You’ve worked in hospitality for upwards of 10 years. What attracted you to the field?

Being from Montego Bay it was a natural choice for me. Ultimately, I’ve found joy in creating or enriching people’s experiences in hotels and restaurants around the world.

You’ve spearheaded a number of restaurant openings. Which is the most memorable and why?

Red Rooster London in the Curtain Hotel in Shoreditch. The cultural differences between the US and the UK were much more pronounced than anticipated but the similarities between Jamaican and UK culture made it special for me as it almost felt like working in Jamaica except for the grey skies and cold rain.

What are your three essential NYC restaurants?

Raoul’s, Red Rooster, Miss Lily’s (was really hoping for full alliteration here, but alas!)

How often do you get to come home?

I’m fortunate enough to come home about six to nine times each year.

Who/what inspires you and why?

My grandmother – Miss Winnie. She has been the foundation of my family and a true inspiration. Raised her children as a single mother and supported our family until she passed in 2016. She made her own path and created opportunities where there were none in sight, a value she instilled in me at an early age. Her work ethic, strength and unwavering determination are a driving force behind everything I do.

You’ve been closely involved with charity work. Why is giving back important to you?

There is a saying: “Talent is distributed evenly, opportunity is not.” Whether this is true or not, there is certainly much to be appreciated in concept. There are many factors that affect the need for charity work globally and when I think of the impact that can be made in my own backyard I have no option but to be involved especially given the opportunity to do so.

What are five things about you that many would find hard to believe?

I’m single!

I don’t spend a lot of time on social media.

My brains!

I’m a real country bumpkin. Love green banana and dasheen with breakfast.

I love travelling alone. Maybe number one and two are correlated.

Which app can’t you live without?

WhatsApp. It allows me to stay connected with friends, family and colleagues around the world.

What’s your favourite dessert?

I can’t say I have just one as I tend to order at least two to three desserts at dinner to try different options. Though when in Jamaica grapenut ice cream is a must-have.

Heels or flats?

Heels!!!!

Jeans or LBD?

LBD for sure.

Who would you call at 2:00 am for advice?

Haha, depends on what kind of advice! Paul Salmon would most likely be my call.

What’s your go-to self-care routine?

Twice per week I give myself a mini-facial including an eyebrow plucking session. Being on the go it can be challenging for me to find the time or place (when not home) to maintain an adequate care routine, so doing as much as I can on my own is essential.