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Kafhi & Chyna
Present: Restoran Lakay
Tell us about yourself!
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Lakay provides authentic Haitian Pate throughout the greater Los Angeles area. We are committed to giving our clients the ultimate comforting and familiar eating experience many of us grew up with. Many Haitians in Los Angeles are far from home, and we are firm believers that one great Pate can bring you right back.
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Can you take us back to the early days of starting? What inspired you to start Restoran Lakay?
Our origin goes back to the days of COVID and the worldwide shutdown. Living in Los Angeles, I was feeling homesick and disconnected from my family back in Boston/Haiti, as many were. Cuisine is a huge part of our culture and connecting with each other; you laugh, share ideas, grow closer - over a meal. I decided to create a cookbook pulling recipes from different family members, and testing them out in pursuit of bringing the Haitian food we love to my own table here in LA. The rest is history.
For those who may not be familiar. Could you share more about the specific type of food your business offers? How would you describe its significance to Haitian culture?
(Is it a staple in Haitian cuisine, a delicacy, a representation of street food culture, or a gourmet twist on traditional recipes?) Help us understand the unique culinary experience your business brings to Los Angeles and how it encapsulates rich Haitian culinary traditions.
We offer authentic Haitian patties, known as Pate, which are savory pastries filled with meat and spices traditionally. The fillings include beef, chicken, codfish, herring and vegan. These are very much a staple in Haitian cuisine. We often relate it to our version of a slice of pizza. For some, they'd grab a pate on the go or as a quick snack, after a night of partying, or as an after-church delicacy at an aunt's house. When accessible, it's the perfect convenient go-to.
Starting a business often involves a lot of personal sacrifice.
Can you share a moment where your cultural values may have played a role in making a tough decision that ultimately benefited your business?
A large part of our values when it comes to the culture is remaining true to tradition and authenticity. We made the conscious decision to highlight Kreyol wherever possible, beginning with naming the business and how we present our offerings. It's important to emphasize our language which is engrained in so many of us, and for those who do not speak the language, introduce them in an effort to strengthen our roots to home.
LA has a rich food scene.
How do you introduce the flavors of Haiti to a diverse local audience here in the city?
Haitian food is bold, hearty, savory and infused with love in every bite. We are unapologetically true to the cooking methods that are rooted in tradition and passed down from generation to generation. Many cultures will dictate to its clientele how their food is to be consumed and experienced, and we are no different.
"Lakay se lakay" – home's everywhere.
Does LA have pockets of home for you?
Can you share some "home" hides in the city?
LA has been home for 10+ years now and "Home" is in the places we frequent most often. From the local sportsbar to grab a bite and catch a game, to the nearby parks and trails where you can connect with nature - LA is diverse in providing a niche for everyone.
In envisioning a future where Haitian culture seamlessly intertwines with the vibrant life of Los Angeles. How do you picture this fusion influencing your business and community? What dreams do you have for your business and the broader community?
We envision Lakay being a representation of Home away from home for many Haitians, and becoming a staple in the community. Eventually we plan to expand our offerings to include more of our delicious cuisine.
For those striving for success in both their professional and personal lives in Los Angeles, What advice do you have to share from your own experiences?
Believe in yourself. Don't stop.
Lastly, THE most important question: Bouyon or Soup Joumou?
Bouyon tet kabrit!
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