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.
New Orleans, LA - On October 22, 2024, I recently had an opportunity to attend the grand opening of Caesars New Orleans, marking the completion of a stunning $435 million transformation of the former Harrah’s New Orleans. It was an evening to remember, filled with excitement, luxury, and the vibrant spirit of New Orleans. The festivities began on Canal Street with an exhilarating ceremony led by Caesars Entertainment CEO Tom Reeg, President & COO Anthony Carano, and Caesars New Orleans General Manager Samir Mowad. The atmosphere was electric as they joined Caesar himself and an iconic New Orleans second-line band in a lively procession into the casino. It felt like the entire city had come out to celebrate, with Caesars New Orleans team members and Mayor LaToya Cantrell also joining the event to commemorate this historic occasion. Anthony Carano’s pride in introducing Caesars to New Orleans was palpable. “From local favorite Emeril Lagasse to our long-time partner, Chef Nobu, to the beautiful state-of-the-art Caesars Sportsbook, all-new rooms and gaming floor, and of course, our gorgeous new center bar, Octavia, Caesars New Orleans offers something for everyone. It’s a world-class resort in the heart of the Big Easy, and we can’t wait for our guests to experience it,” he said. The ceremony was a spectacle, kicking off with an iconic Mardi Gras float featuring Caesar and his court, and a dazzling firework show that lit up the New Orleans sky. The second-line band then led us revelers into the resort’s elegant center bar, Octavia, where we indulged in a “Taste of Caesars New Orleans.” Each bite from the six on-property restaurants was a delightful journey, capturing the essence of New Orleans’ rich culinary scene. Throughout the night, elemental entertainers, including the Saints Cheer Krewe, Mardi Gras Indians, Zulu Tramps, and showgirls, created an authentic and unforgettable Big Easy experience. Everywhere I turned, there was something new to marvel at, each performance more mesmerizing than the last. Samir Mowad, SVP and GM of Caesars New Orleans, highlighted the significance of the transformation, stating, “This year marks 25 years since we opened in New Orleans, and the completion of this project is the perfect way to usher in a new era with Caesars. Synonymous with the Caesars name, our new resort is pure elegance, and we’re excited to introduce a luxury brand like this to New Orleans. We are extremely grateful for the support of the community, our team members, and our guests as we come to the finish line of this tremendous transformation.” The hotel itself is impressive,…
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