Among the law offices and shopping centres that dot downtown
George Town, there is one location that offers an unexpected splash of colour.
The exterior walls surrounding the Everton Building on
Shedden Road and even the parking lot have come to life in recent months with
dozens of vibrant mural paintings.
The extensive display of street art captures the eye and
invites passers-by to explore this previously plain corner of the islands’
captital.
Such intrigue is exactly what Kirk Rowe is hoping to bring
to George Town with the creation of his latest venture, Carib Café, a place
that offers food, drinks and live entertainment.
“When the idea first came about creating this space, I
thought how amazing it would be with art around. Art goes along with
entertainment, dance and music. So, I thought that combination would have been
so great,” he says.
He began refurbishing the location with the backing of a
supportive landlord and the help of artists like Carlos Garcia, among others.
The visual art is just one aspect of the café; next comes the performance art
and the invitation to join in on the fun.
In recent months, the space has invited musicians, poets and
dancers to entertain guests on its outdoor stage.
Caribe Cafe’s outdoor patio is a welcoming place to enjoy
live performances or a drink with friends. – Photos: Alvaro Serey
“On Friday and Saturday nights, it’s just a space where
people can come and ‘lime’ and enjoy, indulge in art,” Rowe says.
On Tuesday nights, a live band plays tunes for karaoke and
other nights, guests might catch Rowe, an experienced dancer, showing off his
moves.
The idea is to bring life back to downtown George Town.
Rather than workers filing out of town when they clock out, Rowe would like to
see people hanging back and enjoying their community. Once patrons come to his
café, he hopes they will be inspired to explore other businesses in the area.
“I’m trying to create something that is different and that
will warrant people coming back to town,” he says.
“Even on Fridays, come 8:30, 9 o’clock, the town is dead.
But we can see the difference happening a little bit. Since I’ve opened, people
are coming back after 10, after 11, coming out with us, having a drink with us
and partying with us.”
The outdoor stage allows people to wander in and enjoy
performances free of charge. Rowe sees it as an opportunity to bring culture
and art to people who might not otherwise seek it out.
The café also opened its kitchen last week. A full menu,
ranging from breakfast to dinner, offers burgers, pasta, tacos and jerk
chicken, among other items.
The café is open Monday through Saturday from 7am to 2am.
For more information, find the café on Facebook under the name Carib Café
Cayman or call 924-4089. The cafe is located at 88 Shedden Road in the Everton
Building.
