Located in the heart of downtown Temple, TX, Ras Kitchen offers authentic Jamaican cuisine, based on recipes created by the restaurant’s founder and chef, Norris Barr, aka Chef Ras.
The restaurant offers a menu of Caribbean dishes where every offering is inspired by the flavors of Norris’ native homeland in Kingston, where he learned to cook at various Jamaican restaurants until he later moved to Washington, D.C. In D.C. learned new techniques from an elder Rastafarian man that taught him the art of cooking authentic Caribbean cuisine.
Years later, Norris launched his own brand by cooking at various bars and events, until he opened his own restaurant in Killeen, and eventually relocated to his newest spot, located in a newly renovated historic building in downtown Temple. Now alongside his wife and business partner, Emilie Wright, Ras Kitchen has become the go-to destination for authentic Jamaican Resort-style dining in the area.
The menu features traditional Jamaican comfort food favorites including several meat dishes like curry goat, jerk chicken, curry chicken, one of our favorite dishes — oxtails.
Other menu favorites feature an intensive seafood catalog, including items like whole lobster, soft shell crab, whole red snapper, and the curry seafood trio dish which offers a seafood combination prepared in a golden curry. Guests will also enjoy a selection of delicious sides, like rice and peas, fried dumplings, fried plantains, baked mac-n-cheese, and much more.
With loyal customers and fans from surrounding areas like Harker Heights, Fort Hood, and Copperas Cove, Ras Kitchen has gained a dynamic customer base as becoming the first Caribbean-based offering through delivery services like Uber Eats. He’s also participated in giving back to his community by donating food and services for various causes over the years.
“Wherever you may recognize Ras he is always humble and genuine in his demeanor.” Emilie says. “He lives with his heart and loves through his food.”
Ras Kitchen is located in downtown Temple, at 17 S. Main Street, offering a daily brunch menu from 11 am – 5 pm, and dinner from 5 pm – 10 pm.