Savannah Spiced: A culinary love story rooted in Caribbean heritage

In the vibrant streets of Brooklyn, Savannah Spiced stands as a culinary treasure deeply rooted in the rich traditions of the Caribbean. Led by a Trinidadian and Grenadian native, Savannah Spice is more than just a restaurant; it’s a love story, a cultural journey, and a celebration of Caribbean heritage that goes beyond borders.

Natalie Lamming Alexander’s culinary journey began with her first restaurant, d’Savannah, on Flatbush in Brooklyn. The name “Savannah” was inspired by Queen’s Park Savannah in Trinidad and Tobago, a place of deep personal significance to her. “The Savannah in Trinidad is like the Central Park of the island…it’s where people gather to exercise, enjoy great food, and celebrate Carnival. Naming my first venture after something so close to my heart was only natural,” she explained. The restaurant is located at 158 Utica Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213.

Natalie, her husband, Davis Alexander, and their two children. Photo by Tino’s Photography

But Savannah Spice is not just about her story — it’s also the story of her Grenadian native husband, Davis Alexander. When they met, their shared passion for food and drink brought them together, and the idea of blending their cultures into a unique culinary experience was born. The name Savannah Spiced beautifully reflects this fusion, combining her Trinidadian roots with her husband’s Grenadian heritage —an island famously known as the “Island of Spice.”

Rice and Peas with Jerk Chicken. The spice from Grenada gives this a tantalizing taste. Photo by Tracey Khan

At Savannah Spiced, the menu is more than just a collection of dishes; it represents the Caribbean, thoughtfully curated to spark conversation and connection. “We wanted the menu to be a conversation piece, especially for those unfamiliar with the Caribbean; each dish is named after places and people that hold special meaning for us, like Karikou Red Snapper or Miss Dorothy’s bake and saltfish, named after my grandmother,” she explained.

Natalie’s grandfather, an activist from Barbados who believed in a united Caribbean, inspired her passion for fostering unity through food. “It’s essential to understand that it’s not just about representing individual islands like Trinidad or Grenada — it’s about representing the Caribbean as a whole,” she says. “When we’re out in the world, we are Caribbean people. This philosophy shapes our menu, inviting customers to enjoy a delicious meal and leave with a deeper understanding of Caribbean culture.”

Rice & Peas with Oxtail, a delicious blend of spices from the islands. Photo by Tracey Khan

For the Alexander’s, Savannah Spiced is more than just a business — it’s a way of life. With decades of experience between them, they have seen Brooklyn evolve and face the challenges of being Black business owners in an ever-changing landscape. Yet, despite the difficulties, they remain committed to their mission: representing Caribbean culture authentically and positively. “I always felt that Caribbean culture is sometimes misrepresented, so I wanted to create a space where people could experience the richness of our heritage through food, drink, and the overall environment…it’s about making people feel good and sharing the stories of the Caribbean,” she explained.

The restaurant has amazing indoor and outdoor seating for all occasions. Photo by Tracey Khan

Owning a restaurant in Brooklyn, especially as a Black Caribbean couple, comes with challenges. Gentrification, rising rents, and the impact of COVID-19 have all made it challenging to keep the doors open. But the Alexanders are determined to stay the course. “We need to maintain our presence here… Brooklyn is made up of the Caribbean, and we refuse to be pushed out…I want to be that lady who laughs last and bows out on her terms,” the businesswoman asserts.

Their resilience is fueled by deep gratitude for every customer who walks through their doors. “They don’t have to support you — they choose to,” Mrs. Alexander added, “so we make sure our customers feel appreciated, especially when there are so many challenges in the industry. “

Savannah Spiced has some of the most creatively delicious alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. Photo by Tracey Khan

The couple is already planning to pass on the legacy of entrepreneurship to their 11-year-old son, Sebastian. Inspired by his love for pizza, they are opening a Caribbean-themed pizza shop for him. “Every year, I throw these big birthday parties for him, and I realized that I wanted to create something more lasting…so I decided to open a Caribbean pizza place where he can learn about business and culture and hopefully carry on everything we’ve started,” she said.

The pizza shop will offer personalized, Caribbean-inspired pizzas incorporating flavors like saltfish, breadfruit, and oxtail. This creative venture honors their heritage and provides a platform for teaching Sebastian valuable life lessons.

Savannah Spiced is more than just a restaurant — it’s a beacon of Caribbean culture in the heart of Brooklyn. It’s a place where love, food, and heritage come together to create something extraordinary. Through their hard work, dedication, and passion, the Alexanders are building a legacy that honors their roots and inspires the next generation. One thing remains clear as they continue to navigate the industry’s challenges: Savannah Spice is here to stay, a testament to the power of love, culture, and community.