On August 18, Vivid Caribbean American Bistro reopened its doors with an evening of Soca music and relaxing vibes, serving dishes like Jerk Chicken and Sweet Chili Wings, reported Caribbean Life.
That new owner, Niaz Chowdhury, a Bronx-born former corporate professional, could be seen serving various dishes such as escovitch fish tenders, oxtail, sweet plantains, and rice and peas to patrons looking forward to dining out after local restaurants have been on hiatus.
"I love the Caribbean community. I have never met a community with a better work life than the Caribbean," said Chowdhury.
Beginning his career as a busboy, Chowdhury learned the restaurant business, eventually becoming a manager before purchasing the bistro. He believes whether you are a busboy or server, you are a leader at the end of the day.
"If you clean a table, you make a difference because the customer at that table will be happy, and especially during the coronavirus pandemic, where we have to be sanitary," explained Chowdhury.
Trained in Caribbean and Jamaican cooking, Chef Marcos creates dishes from across the islands such as Lobster Mac and Cheese, Red Snapper, and Coconut Shrimp to name a few.
In a time when small businesses are closing due to the pandemic, community leaders say it is important to support small businesses: "Politicians host events here, and the community comes out for Sunday brunch, after Church. We will do everything we can to support the business," said Hassan Bakiriddin, member of Community Board 17 Commerce Committee.
