... Starapples?

Named for the popular fruit in Jamaica, Starapples Restaurant brings a homely feel to customers, boasting great local cuisine served up in a relaxing atmosphere. Located at 94A Hope Road, the restaurant is ready to open its doors to new and existing customers, enticing appetites at a discounted price during the Gleaner-sponsored Restaurant Week.

For this week we turn the spotlight on the head chef, Latoya Masters.

How long have you been in the industry?

Eleven years.

Why did you decide to become a chef?

It is not something that I had really decided to do but there was a job opening in this field and my mother motivated me to go for it. I think it helps that I love cooking and I was a regular in the kitchen when I was young.

What has been your experience with Restaurant Week, and what are you looking forward to this year?

It has always been great, very busy, and this year I am looking forward to it being even bigger and better.

Do you cook at home?

Of course. My favourite dishes to prepare are stew peas and curried chicken back.