In Miss Winnie’s Jamaican Jerk restaurant, Head Chef Elbert Johnston and his son Nick serve up more than just the authentically Jamaican dishes on their menu. They show a story of love and inspiration through each plate. Miss Winnie’s is named after Bert’s mother, Winnifred Joyce Johnston. She spent the beginning of her life in Jamaica, then decided to immigrate to the U.S., slowly bringing each of her eight children after her. She later raised two more children from those she fostered. The restaurant was founded upon the warm, welcoming spirit of Miss Winnie. Keep reading to see how the family’s encouragement for Bert to open Miss Winnie’s paid off, especially with delicious, mouth-watering Jamaican recipes!
PPRG: How did Miss Winnie’s come to be? Have you always envisioned yourselves in the restaurant industry?
Bert: I I was taught how to cook at a young age and I enjoyed it. I also discovered that I was good at it. Some time ago we started hosting Christmas parties for friends and neighbors. At first we had things catered, and then we thought we could do better with the food. We added some Jerk Chicken and Jerk Pork with rice as the main dishes. Everyone loved it and looked forward to the party every year. Fast forward to five years ago when I had to make a career choice. My family had been saying I should open a restaurant for a few years prior, so I finally said okay, let’s do it. The restaurant was named after my Mom. Being in the restaurant industry was not something I thought about until a few years ago.
PPRG: How would you describe Miss Winnie’s menu and flavor to a first-time diner?
Bert: I would say the flavors will take you to Jamaica even if you have not been there. They are spicy and give you a warm feeling all over. The menu has a few of our favorites that our friends and neighbors enjoyed, plus some popular additions in Jamaica.
PPRG: Which dish do you feel represents your mother, Miss Winnie, the most?
Bert: The Oxtail Stew with rice and peas.
PPRG: What are the best parts and more challenging parts of doing business with family members?
Bert: The best part is knowing that you are working with someone you already know and can argue with or have a disagreement with and not have to be concerned about being fully professional all the time.
PPRG: COVID-19 has impacted all businesses. How has COVID-19 impacted Miss Winnie’s and what are you doing to get your business through the pandemic?
Bert: We had to reduce the number of days we were open from 5 to 3 as business was very slow. We are up to 4 days per week now.
PPRG: What can guests do to support Miss Winnie’s through the pandemic?
Bert: Continue to call and order takeout or delivery.
PPRG: What are some of your favorite places in West Chester and the Philadelphia area?
Elbert: In West Chester, periodically we would get breakfast from the Country Bagel or Market Street Grill. For dinner, Teca and Iron Hill Brewery are a few of our favorites. The Philadelphia area has so much history and great restaurants that we visited too: Capital Grill, Pod Restaurant, and Restaurant 1862. We also love to see the Philly sports teams play at the Linc, Wells Fargo Center and Subaru Park.
Craving Miss Winnie’s food? Us too! You can try Miss Winnie’s dishes from their menu for yourself through takeout or delivery, and make sure to check out their website, Instagram, and Facebook page!
