A seafaring city synonymous with the Kennedy clan, Hyannis in Massachusetts is where the well-heeled go to sail and hang out. It is also home to Karibbean Lounge Express, a Jamaican restaurant operated by Allanah Bodah.

Previously known as Karibbean Lounge, it opened on January 24 with a name change and venue. Bodah, who is from Annotto Bay, St Mary, says there has been enthusiastic response to the new address and focus.

“We are currently at 15 Charles St within a convenient store. We have been gaining a lot more new customers, and our loyal customers are now acknowledging our new home,” she told Observer Online. “We are located in the low income area where foot traffic and traffic is more frequent. We now offer different sized meals, so it’s convenient for all budgets.”

Unlike Karibbean Lounge which was a dining restaurant, Karibbean Lounge Express is a take-out venture. Naturally, Jamaicans comprise most of its clientele, but Bodah says the establishment’s eclectic menu attracts diverse patrons.

Haitians, for example, savour Oxtail while Brazilians are big into chicken dishes. Puerto Ricans consistently order curried goat and patties.

As proprietor of Karibbean Lounge for four years, Bodah got acquainted with the indiscriminate tastes of the Hyannis community. She currently heads an all-Jamaican staff of five at Karibbean Lounge Express, which is open six days a week, except on Sundays.

The prospects are promising after three weeks.

“Most definitely, in many different aspects. Our new mission is definitely making sense,” said Bodah.