Carena Ives held her breath and hoped for the best when she elected to temporarily close her restaurant, Carena’s Jamaican Grille, for renovations.
The gamble appears to have paid off. Six months later, she has doubled her business and continues to rally behind the larger renaissance taking place along the Midlothian Turnpike corridor. Read “Corridor Seeks to Recapture Glory Days”- Richmond Times Dispatch.
“I’ve always believed in this area, and I’m excited to be a part of the rebirth that’s happening here,” Ives said. “There’s so much energy right now, and I know it’s only going to continue to grow.”
Read “Development Continues to Develop Along Midlothian Turnpike”- WWBT (NBC 12)
“I’ve always believed in this area, and I’m excited to be a part of the rebirth that’s happening here. There’s so much energy right now, and I know it’s only going to continue to grow.”
Carena’s has drawn visitors from all over Metro Richmond since its grand opening in 2007. Ives’ authentic Jamaican cuisine, featuring savory menu items such as jerk prime rib, conch fritters and ox tail, helped the restaurant develop a cult-like following over the years. Read “Short Order” – Style Weekly
Ives invested in a food truck to continue offering her cuisine during the hiatus. This allowed her to reach Richmonders both at the site of her restaurant and at popular events around town. Read “Carena’s Gets A Makeover” – Richmond Magazine
“I’m so grateful for all the community support we’ve received over the years, and especially the past six months. We’re delighted to see friends old and new.”
The new 2,800 square foot building is bright, open, and colorful. Much like the original restaurant, the new building features murals from local painter Happy the Artist. In the warmer months, guests can dine al fresco on a large new patio.
In addition to the fresh new look and the dishes diners have grown to love, Chef Patrick is pleased to offer delicious new menu items such as a jerk angus burger, Appleton Rum-glazed baby back ribs, and grilled salmon in a creamy coconut sauce.
“I’m so grateful for all the community support we’ve received over the years, and especially the past six months. We’re delighted to see friends old and new.”
Carena’s Jamaican Grille is located at 7102 Midlothian Turnpike in the Spring Rock Green Shopping Center. The restaurant is open 11am-10pm Monday-Thursday, 11am-11pm Friday and Saturday, and 11am-9pm Sunday.
