About US

I hail from Sint Maarten, which is the Dutch side of our island. The food culture of Sint Maarten (SXM) is robust and unique. Depending on whom you ask, the National Dish of choice could be conch with dumplings, saltfish, or BBQ chicken legs with johnny cake. Within my immediate family alone, there are a wide variety of food cultures found on the island of SXM. The diverese history of our culture is represented in our foods. SXM cuisines are unique, but not rare. You will experience the taste of food from all over the world right there in these 16 square miles of the Dutch side of the island. There are over 70 different nationalities that reside in SXM. Many of our dishes are of Creole and African influence, amongst various others.

When you talk about “family heirlooms”, some of the most cherished inheritances’ are our own family recipes. I can recall, thinking as a child, my grandfather can make anything from "scraps." Food was the bond that brought our immediate families, extended families, friends, and neighbors together for every holiday. Every meal I cook today is inspired by my upbringing. Food scraps inspired creativity, which developed into cuisine staples as we know it today. Many of the recipes you will see on this platform are inspired by the meals my mother, grandmother, and grandfather made when I was a child.

Growing up, food was very symbolic for family get togethers. I would venture to say, other people within the Caribbean Islands, and fellow Antilleans, can relate or attest to this. How we feel about each other, and how we share meals are socially and emotionally driven. The sharing of meals have repaired broken relationships, and brought us closer together. The non-verbal connection of it all, has been profound within my life, as I think back on my childhood. Social family gatherings were a staple in most of my younger years. I looked forward to food preps and family bonding, at every possible occasion that came around. I still strive for this today.

I hope you find something you like and wish to share with your loved ones here. 

Always Porgressing

Always Cooking