New Caribbean-American Restaurant Will Open on Utica Avenue by Christmas

CROWN HEIGHTS, BROOKLYN — A new Caribbean-American fusion restaurant is scheduled to make its debut along Utica Avenue by Christmas, according to its owner.

The Jamaican-born chef Dave Kelly told Patch he has spent years cooking in New York City restaurants, starting as a prep chef and working his way up. His past employers include the former Bolo in Manhattan and Clipper's Cuisine in Queens.

Now, Kelly is working to open his own space, New Era, at 366 Utica Ave. near the border of Crown Heights and Brownsville.

The restaurant's liquor license was given the green light by Community Board 9 earlier this week. Kelly said the menu will feature both Caribbean classics, like jerk chicken and seafood dishes, and American fare.

While he'll be serving steak, fish, salmon and chicken, Kelly said he doesn't plan on cooking pork, to keep the menu halal for Muslim customers.

Other culinary details, however, remain under wraps as Kelly works to finalize the menu.

New Era will have about 20 tables and a bar, Kelly said, and will be open seven days a week — from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. from Monday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to about 1 p.m. on Sunday.

The entrepreneur said he'll be doing some hiring starting in December. Applicants can reach him directly by calling 718-607-0295.

Pictured at top: The future home of New Era. Photo by John V. Santore