An Ipswich entrepreneur in his mid-twenties say he is fulfilling his "destiny" by opening his very own Caribbean restaurant in the heart of the Suffolk town.
Rasheedi Jacob used to co-own Carib Bar and Grill which opened earlier this year but has since branched out on his own to launch his very own restaurant: Hard Ball Caribbean Smokehouse.
"I am from Jamaica and think that Caribbean food is the most diverse in the world," said Mr Jacob.
"I've always wanted to open my own restaurant and, after working as a chef for the past 10 years, it feels as if I have fulfilled my destiny.
"The restaurant will capture the feel of Jamaica and has been decorated to feel like you are in the Caribbean.
"There will be a grassy area and swing chairs too."
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Customers will be able to sample authentic Caribbean food including curried goat and jerk omelette.
Mr Jacob is also launching jerk sushi, believed to be the only dish of its kind in the Suffolk region.
The restaurant is large enough to have 120 customers seated at any one time.
"It is massive," said Mr Jacob.
"We've got enough space and the facilities for formal event hire, and want will be available for weddings and parties too."
The restaurant is still a work in progress as Mr Jacob only got the keys to the premises last Monday.
"It is in really good shape," said Mr Jacob.
"I'm just adjusting to the change of environment and getting the place ready for the new cuisine we will be serving here."
Hard Ball Caribbean Smokehouse will be open seven days a week from Saturday, October 7.
It will also be available for hire for events and weddings, with more information released soon on its social media.
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