Thesa Vaughan
Babu’s Jerk Joint
537 Federal Road, Brookfield, CT 06804
(203) 448-5720
www.babusjerkjoint
Thesa was spiritually drawn to her location on Federal Road. Working as a Nanny, in NYC, she was spending week ends in the area with a lifelong friend when she stumbled across what is now Babu’s Jerk Joint. With a network of support from friends, she undertook the greatest challenge of her life. Along with her partner and Mother, Patricia, they have recreated her Grandfather’s (Babu) favorite recipes from her Mom’s home in Clarendon, Jamaica. Her mentor and business coach remains her former employer in NYC.
Thesa was raised in Kingston, Jamaica and came to the US when she was 22. As an immigrant, she noted, you have to let go of all preconceived ideas and realize that all work is honest work. She has put her training in journalism on hold to concentrate on the business of business. Initially setting the menu and refining the flavors, she is now concentrating on plating, portions and marketing her business through social media as well as at street fairs and festivals. She is finding that she is developing a loyal following of a diverse clientele and attributes her success to the generous spirit of the people in her church (Faith Church) as well as the community.
In the coming year, she hopes to increase her staff to accommodate outside catering as well as being able to hold events on the property, which includes a large field and miniature golf course. Her vision includes game boards under tented areas for people to relax or have afternoon tea as well as live music. As much as she would like to modernize the venue, she wants to keep the authentic family run hut feel that you would find in Jamaica.
In addition to the wonderful array of jerk spiced entrees, she is proud of their pastries including pineapple upside down cake, fruit cake marinated in wine, potato pudding and gizzada (coconut pie). They will cater and are open 11:00am-8:00pm Mondays thru Wednesdays, 11:00am-9:00pm on Thursdays and 11:00am-9:30pm Fridays and Saturdays.