Chef Dom Taylor is back with a new project, Marvee’s Food Shop in Ladbroke Grove – a follow-up to The Good Front Room, his successful 10-month residency that showcased Caribbean cooking in the elegant Palm Court at the Langham hotel in Portland Place.
Named in honour of his mother, Marveline, the new project is a more casual affair, evoking the sights, smells and tastes that Dom remembers from his childhood in southeast London and trips to Jamaica. Set in music and events space UNDR, near Portobello Road, it will take bookings from next week ahead of the official 9 May launch.
Dom says: “Marvee’s Food Shop is something I’ve been dreaming about for years. It’s the kind of place I’ve always wanted to create — one that brings together the food memories that shaped me. From childhood days in Jamaica to watching the women in my family work their magic in the kitchen, and of course, everything I’ve learned from my mum, Marvee. She’s the heart of this project, and she’ll always have a seat in the restaurant. Every project I’ve done has been rooted in love for Caribbean heritage and flavour — and this is no different.
“But I want to be clear: this isn’t The Good Front Room. That’s its own thing, and there’s more to come on that at a later date. Marvee’s is a different vibe. More relaxed, more everyday. It’s another way for me to keep challenging the stereotypes around Caribbean food in the UK. I can’t wait to open the doors and welcome the community — old friends and new.“
For the menu Dom has reimagined two Caribbean classics – the Bammy, a traditional cassava bread, and the Jamaican Festival, a deep-fried sweet bread – in waffle form, to be served with a choice of toppings such as Jerk Chicken, Crispy Spiced Banana Blossom or Boneless Curry Goat. His take on the Jamaican patty pairs fillings like Callaloo, Beef, Saltfish or Chicken with dipping sauces including Oxtail gravy and a rich, sweet Dark Rum & Raisin sauce, while sides include Roast pineapple & heirloom tomato chow, Lime, Chilli & Maple Plantain & Spicy Pumpkin rice.
Nostalgic desserts include Old Skool Cake & Custard and Roasted Plantain & Molasses Soft Serve, while drinks include vegan-friendly pineapple punch, peanut punch and carrot juice, alongside UNDR’s selection of cocktails, wine and beer.
Marvee’s Food Shop’s retro interiors are inspired by Caribbean homes and takeaway shops of the 1980s and 1990s, while contemporary portrait artist Yvadney Davis has been commissioned to create work that celebrates the Windrush generation and their descendants.
