A new dining event in London is bringing people together for community, youth activities, and business networking, all with a special Bajan flair, utilising CouCou, Barbados’ national dish.
The CouCou Club was launched on Monday, 23rd March, at Flava Pepper, a Barbadian-owned restaurant in Brixton Hill, South London. An event that was organised by Bajan Cherry, an initiative established by Lee-Anne Willoughby and Jazmin Webb.
“The CouCou Club is an intimate Bajan supper club, offering an intimate, reservation-only setting where guests can enjoy CouCou, Barbados’ national dish, and connect with one another. It was created to help professionals and creatives connect, using Barbadian culture to build meaningful relationships that go beyond typical dining experiences,” says Lee-Anne.
Continuing, “It is important to be as Barbadian led as possible to highlight Barbadian businesses and leverage the existing network to create a platform that supports and showcases our community.”
The layout of the restaurant table was a modern take on 70s Caribbean decor, with dolly’s (many of our grandmothers made) and plastic table covers with faux flowers. The table became a space for stories and lived experiences to be shared.
“Our first Coucou Club table concept was inspired by that feeling. We also call it CC, Coucou Club, the act of cc’ing others in and bringing together our friends from other cultures to experience Bajan culture, so with every gathering, the circle widens, strengthening diaspora ties while extending Barbados’ cultural presence in London.”
Lee- Ann said that their inspiration was,
“Gran Gran’s” home, where stories were told, cousins laughed loudly, advice was shared, and everyone was welcome. The house was always full, and somehow there was always room for one more. “
Distinguished guests attended the event, including representatives from the Barbados High Commission, Diaspora Attache Ms Betty Lewis, and sponsors such as Barbados Tourism Marketing Inn (BTMI), Barbados Overseas Community and Friends Association (BOCFA), Riddim Snacks, Inspirational Gifts (Goody Bags), 1359 Rum Punch, and Flava Pepper restaurant…
Chef Shaun Walcott’s team, including Shakira Walcott, Smith, and Paul Quintyne, prepared the food.
Socials:
@_bajancherry
@ourcoucouclub
Websites:
Coucou Club https://zyistudios.com/coucou-club
Bajan Cherry https://zyistudios.com/bajan
