In Bainbridge, two entrepreneurs are bringing a taste of Asia and Haiti to the town, introducing residents to new flavors and comfort food. Christine Vancamp, owner of Ono Kine Local Grindz, is sharing her Asian Fusion cuisine with customers, inspired by her Korean grandparents and upbringing in Hawaii. She offers dishes like shoyu chicken, kalbi, and lumpia at her restaurant at the Bainbridge Marina.
Ritho Jean Louis, on the other hand, is the manager and owner of Ritho Caribbean Spot. He grew up cooking for his sisters in Haiti and brings a unique blend of flavors to the area. Louis came to Bainbridge as a farm worker and realized that there was a lack of traditional Haitian cuisine in the area. He saw an opportunity to introduce his culture’s dishes to the community and provide a taste of home to those missing it. To showcase his heritage alongside other members of the Haitian and Latino community, Louis plans on hosting a corn festival.
Both Louis and Vancamp are passionate about sharing their cultural heritage through food and providing a unique dining experience for the community. By offering Asian and Haitian cuisine in Bainbridge, they hope to introduce residents to new flavors and comfort food that they may not have experienced before. Their stories and dedication to their craft have brought diversity and international flair to the small town.