A taste of the Caribbean meets Asian-inspired dishes at CZEN Restaurant, a Brooklyn eatery serving a unique menu for nearly six years. Owner Al and his partners, who are of Jamaican, Haitian, and Barbadian descent, opened the restaurant to bring neighborhood-style flavors and a vibrant atmosphere to the Brooklyn neighbourhood.
“CZEN actually stands for Caribbean Zen,” Netfa Ricketts said. “We wanted to blend our roots and create something that reflected both cultures.”
In addition to its Brooklyn location, CZEN has expanded to Englewood, New Jersey, and recently opened a speakeasy-style restaurant in Long Island City in collaboration with Newsroom.
The menu at CZEN is a fusion of Caribbean and Asian cuisine, offering everything from oxtail and jerk chicken to sushi rolls, dumplings, ramen bowls, and bao buns. Brunch is served on Saturdays and Sundays, dinner hours run from Tuesday to Friday, 4 p.m. to midnight, and weekends begin at noon.
Netfa acknowledged the challenges of opening a new restaurant just before the COVID-19 pandemic but said the business has remained steady. “We’ve been vibrant in the community, and the fact that we’re still here and blossoming today is something we’re proud of,” he said.
The restaurant prides itself on customer engagement and community involvement, including recent promotions for Labor Day weekend featuring flags, shots, and live entertainment. CZEN hosts DJs, live bands, comedy shows, and poetry slams to create an energetic, inclusive vibe.
Looking ahead, he says the restaurant plans to continue expanding, whether through new locations, product placements, or increasing brand recognition. “Our goal is to solidify our brand and keep bringing authentic experiences to the neighborhoods we serve,” he said.
He credited the restaurant’s success to his team, strong community ties, and a commitment to fresh, high-quality food. “We know there’s always room for improvement, and we strive to enhance our brand, customer service, and wait times,” he added. “But anyone who comes to CZEN can expect an authentic product and a good time.”
