... Gloria's Port Royal?

Arguably one of the best seafood restaurants in Jamaica, Gloria's over the years has enjoyed tremendous recognition and popularity.

Starting out as a small establishment, it has managed to grow significantly, resulting in the opening of a second outlet, metres away from the original. Serving up the same menu options, both come with different dining settings, which appeals to various preferences.

Head chef at Gloria's (original) Verona Dowie is responsible for some of the very tasty and mouth- watering seafood dishes at the eatery.

How long have you been in the industry?

Twenty-nine years.

Why did you become a chef?

I am from Westmoreland and I came to Kingston with a friend to get a job. I didn't like the job I got so I came here in search of another one. I spoke with Miss Gloria and she gave me the job and from then on she took me on like one of her daughters. I learnt everything from her.

What is your area of speciality?

Seafood.

What were previous Restaurant Weeks like for you and what are you looking forward to this year?

Very good. We got a lot more customers and new faces. And for this year I expect it to be better.

Do you cook at home?

Yes, I do and my favourite meals to prepare are pork and curried crab. I love cooking!

Verona Dowie, head chef at Gloria's gets ready to serve the seafood escapade.