31-01-2025
Jamaican street food business 'buzzing' for move into town venue
A Jamaican street food chef and entrepreneur says he is "buzzing" for his next adventure in a "no-brainer" move to a new venue.
CRAIGS da FLAVA, run by Deron 'Craig' Coleman, has been serving hungry customers at The Pykkerell Inn in Bury St Edmunds since July 2024.
Mr Coleman, who was born in Kingston, Jamaica and moved to England when he was 10, has now revealed he is moving his business to Thetford Conservative Club.
Deron 'Craig' Coleman (right) with Jim Callinan (left) of The Pykkerell inn (Image: CRAIGS da FLAVA) The 45-year-old said: "We've really enjoyed being at The Pykkerell and they were amazing to us.
"Unfortunately, some logistics meant that I needed a bit more independence.
"So, when we were approached by the Conservative Club and they said 'Hey, your Facebook is gaining traction and your food is amazing', well, to be honest, we were very excited.
"Then they showed me the kitchen, and well, it was a done deal."
Mr Coleman, who is known by his friends and family as Craig, will be serving food from the new venue from Friday, January 7.
He added: "I am really passionate about cooking and we make real authentic Caribbean food.
"This is a brilliant opportunity for our business to go further and I am buzzing.
"It's a no-brainer really.
CRAIGS da FLAVA's jerk fried chicken is one of the most popular items on the menu. (Image: CRAIGS da FLAVA) "We have now signed a six-month contract with them and they understand our product.
"We are also working with them to make the food suit their audience."
Mr Coleman is supported by his partner Rachel and is the father of seven children.
Despite the demands, he says he is determined to make the business a success.
The takeaway will also be offering Jamaican twists on other cuisines like sweet and sour chicken and traditional English roast dinner. (Image: CRAIGS da FLAVA) The father of seven added: "I doubt myself every day but I keep on pushing as I want to make this work
"Sometimes I feel like I can't do it but my wife tells me to shut up and keep going and she's amazing.
"I'm a big family man and I want to make this work for my family so I'm excited for this move.
"We want to be loud about our product and I want everyone in Thetford to know we can stand tall against any other takeaway.
"Let's see what happens."
Thetford Conservative Club, where CRAIGS da FLAVA will now be based. (Image: CRAIGS da FLAVA) CRAIGS da FLAVA will be serving from the Conservative Club in Magdalen Street on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and their menu can be found on their Facebook page.
Members of the club can eat at the venue while takeaway will be open to the public.
