The KJ’s Story: Just a Kid from Spanish Town

Born in Spanish Town, Jamaica, Kevin Whittingham brought more than recipes with him when he moved to Cleveland in 1995 — he brought culture, passion, and a vision. After years of hard work and dedication, that vision became KJ’s Caribbean & Soul Food. Located on Harvard Avenue in the Lee-Harvard neighborhood, KJ’s transformed what was once a Dairy Queen into a thriving destination for bold, authentic flavor.

Today, it stands as a reflection of Kevin’s journey — rooted in tradition and built for the community. Known across the city for its signature oxtail and unforgettable dishes, KJ’s continues to serve food the way it was meant to be — cooked from the heart. As proud residents of Lee-Harvard, Kevin and his wife Yolonda remain committed to their neighborhood, creating not just meals, but experiences that bring people together.