Ascot’s premier Caribbean Street food restaurant has scooped a Blue Ribbon for Delicious Dishes in the Good Food Awards 2023.

Located on Lindhurst Road, Blazin' Soul Kitchen was opened just before the first lockdown by Jamaican born chef Antoin Morrison.

As a classically French trained chef, Antoin’s aim was to offer the kind of authentic Caribbean cuisine that he grew up with, to the people of Ascot.

Two years on and the restaurant has now been recognised for its food quality, service and value according to online customer reviews.

Antoin said: “I’ve been absolutely overwhelmed with the award and the reaction from local people.

“We take on board opinions from every customer and use it to make our food and service better in the future.

“It means so much to the team and we have had a vast array of positive comments as the business has taken off.”

After year’s of helping other restaurateurs open their businesses, Antoin decided to take on a new challenge and despite the difficulties that came with lockdown, it has gone from strength to strength.

With his training in authentic French and fusion cooking methods, he wanted his first restaurant to offer customers authentic street food that he grew up learning how to make.

Antoin explained: “When I was growing up, my grandmother taught me everything she knew about cooking authentic Caribbean cuisine the ‘back street’ way.

“Even though all the food is Halal, I still try to buy all my produce and ingredients from local merchants, and I also try to employ local people within the community.

“The journey hasn’t been easy, especially during Covid. We lost a lot of custom because we were forced to close and only offer take-out.

“Surprisingly though the take-out side took off and now people come from all areas to sample our food.”

Although ‘Blazin Soul Kitchen’ is located just off Ascot High Street, his aim is to eventually move to a more populated area and offer extended delivery times.

He added: “I’ve thanked everyone who has supported us and left messages of support online because I’m just so grateful for their backing.

“We’re absolutely nothing without the support of the local community and I’m just so grateful for it. My aim now is to reach more and more people.”

Customers have been raving about the authentic Caribbean online, with hundreds of glowing reviews left after ordering from Blazin Soul Kitchen.

On the Just Eat site, customer Jessica said: “Food is exceptional and excellent portion sizes. Oxtail melted in my mouth. So happy Bracknell finally had a good Caribbean dishes. Soul food made with love, will be ordering again.”

Another customer, Luke left a review saying: “Amazing flavours, absolutely delicious. Arrived pretty quickly and all hot. Really pleased with first order and am looking forward to the next time I order. Many thanks for great food and service!”