A need identified from personal experience led one enterprising young entrepreneur to create Eleven Restaurant and Lounge, a trendy spot offering sumptuous fare, exotic cocktails and entertainment in Westmoreland.

Located in Savanna-la-Mar, Eleven was opened on August 11 of this year and represents a shift in food and entertainment offerings for the rural town. This was the thought process that led Glenton Rowe to finally execute an idea that was years in the making.

“For business meetings I had to rush to Negril or Montego Bay, and being based in Sav, that was a challenge as I couldn’t identify a spot that would work well here. Creating this space was something we have been thinking about for quite some time. On deciding on the menu options, we knew that we wanted items that look good, taste good and are easy to make. For this process I reached out to my friend Akeeno Clarke, a Jamaican private chef, based in the United States,” Rowe explained.

“The reaction from patrons has exceeded expectations. People are expressing appreciation, wanting to see the venture succeed and giving tips on how we can improve. Several like-minded individuals sharing the same need for a space like this in Sav are also expressing love for the space. The support from the community so far has been tremendous and we’re just excited to put all our plans in place,” Rowe added.

Friday Nights at Eleven started last week with plans to have Ladies’ Night on Wednesdays as well as a guest chef series on the last Sunday of each month.

“We’re bringing some new concepts and [giving] an experience of some of the culture, flair, flavours and cuisines from other parts of the world. Ideally, people should come in with an empty heart and open stomach to experience some things that might be shocking to the palate. It’s an international and Jamaican fusion but we bring the familiarity with flavours, seasonings and the cooking process. We have discerning citizens now; Jamaicans are travelling, their experiences have broadened, and this can give them a taste of what they have encountered elsewhere,” Clarke said.

Opening hours: Sunday – Saturday 11:00 am -11:00 pm

Address: 1 Beckford Street, Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland

Tel#: 876-223-9926

Instagram: @elevenwess