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Caribbean Eatery H A A M (Healthy As A Motha) Opens in Williamsburg
November 4, 2023, 7:54.54 am ET

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Photos: H A A M

The flavors of the Caribbean come together at H A A M, a plant-based Caribbean eatery inspired by Chef/Owner Yesenia Ramdass’s Dominican heritage and her husband Randy’s Trinidadian background.

Short for 'Healthy As A Motha,' the concept originated as a cloud kitchen in Queens, but after gaining popularity through pop-ups across NYC and Long Island, they knew expansion was necessary to keep up with growing demand.

Yesenia Ramdass, a native New Yorker, became a vegan at 17 years old despite growing up with a food culture that revolved around meat. At H A A M she blends tradition with innovation and celebrates the vibrancy of the Caribbean in a healthful, sustainable, and approachable way.

On the menu, you will find dishes like a Jerk Tamarind Oyster Mushroom Burger; Yucca Mash with King Oyster Scallops Al Ajillo; Yuh Motha's Mofongo with chicharron de lions mane and curried cream sauce; and Buss Up Shut Roti Plate with curry jackfruit, pumpkin, and curry mango.

For dessert there’s Cassava Pone (cassava cake) with Soursop Ice Cream, and Arroz Con Leche, a Dominican rice pudding made with cashew milk..

H A A M also offers Caribbean drinks made with cold-pressed sugarcane juice, house made tamarind juice, sorrel juice (a hibiscus beverage native to Jamaica), and Morisoñando (a traditional Dominican drink which blends milk and orange juice), as well as vegan wine, beer, and champagne-based cocktails.

Melissa Anderson of Brooklyn-based OAD Interiors designed the space, blending modern sophistication with Caribbean charm. Look for black and white mosaic marble floors, vibrant green accents and natural materials that give a nod to the Caribbean's lush landscapes. The space also features a striking mural, hand-painted by Brazilian artist Livia Mourao, that serves as a tribute to the matriarchal figures who brought the H A A M to life.

H A A M will officially open on Wednesday, November 15 at 234 Union Avenue in Williamsburg. For more information, visit healthyasamotha.com


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