When downtown Bennington began to buzz with revitalization, Joan Gilpin and her daughter Anique were inspired to be part of the community’s reignited energy. They have fulfilled their vision by bringing the vibrant flavors of Jamaica to join the eclectic, diverse local restaurant scene.
In 2023, Joan and Anique began going through the process of purchasing a property to expand from their previous location. That’s when their banker encouraged them to connect with Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC) to develop a business plan and a three-year projection. Soon after, they met with Nancy Shuttleworth, VtSBDC’s area advisor for Bennington and Rutland counties.
“I have learned so much working with Nancy,” says Anique. “Not only did we complete a business plan and the required projections, but Nancy showed us how to navigate all our financials from the balance sheet to profit and loss statements, cash flow, and more. She went through everything step by step, and now I am more confident in doing these things by myself.”
Nancy remarks that Joan and Anique followed through on all the complexities and hurdles of purchasing property and equipment, completing loan details, and ultimately relocating and reopening their business. “They came to me with questions and concerns along the way so that we were able to address them in a timely manner, overcome challenges, and move the process forward,” Nancy said. She added, “Anique is an extremely hard worker. She had a vision, and with an enormous amount of perseverance she overcame many interruptions and setbacks to get where she is today.”
Open at 1001 Main Street since spring 2024, Joan and Anique are receiving rave reviews about their mouthwatering menu that includes savory jerk chicken, curried fish and vegetables, and delectable dessert cakes, just to name a few. They take pride in sourcing the freshest local ingredients and crafting each dish using generations-old, treasured family recipes.
A Caribbean-themed atmosphere sets the scene for a relaxed dining-in experience, but the family-operated, women-owned café also offers the convenience of take-out and delivery. The warm and welcoming family creates a friendly, comfortable ambiance, surrounding customers with the essence of Jamaican hospitality.
“My mom and I are so happy to be fulfilling our goal of creating a celebration of authentic Jamaican cuisine and community spirit through good food, music, and game nights,” Anique concludes. “We are very grateful to be working with Nancy. She has been consistently kind and reliable, and we have truly benefited from the learning experience, and from gaining a new found friend.”
More information is available on the website IslandFlavorVt.com, and on Island Flavor’s Facebook page.
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