By Leroy Graham

Wraps and Jerk is poised to be the gift that keeps on giving. Located in Toronto’s west end, the eatery, which features an eclectic menu inspired by dishes from the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East was opened by Vernon Smiley as a gift for his mother.

Now, with an already dedicated following, Wraps and Jerk is giving foodies the gift of a fresh take on the traditional Jamaican jerk joint. “I don’t just focus on Caribbean food, I venture toward all types of food,” says Smiley. “I’m a chef, I went to school for culinary arts and I majored in Italian cuisine. My tastes are all over the place, so the food that I make at Wraps and Jerk caters to those who like all types of food.”

Those who have tasted Smiley’s unique dishes can attest to the menu’s delicate and balanced flavours. And, aside from great taste, customers get an added bonus from eating at Wraps and Jerk. “Caribbean food can become very fatty depending on what you put inside of it,” says Smiley. “Here, we are more organic. I have a background in nutrition so I know what to provide to people that will be good for a healthy lifestyle.For example, we have chicken breasts, which provide a good source of protein or yams, which are a good source of carbs.”

Although Wraps and Jerk is new to the neighbourhood, it has already gained a reputation for its signature dish. Born out of Canada’s multicultural mosaic, Smiley has blended a traditional old world recipe with a bit of island flavour and created a dish all his own. “Everyone wants to try the jerk shawarma,” he says. “Everyone is always curious to know what it is. Based on the traditional Middle Eastern dish, the jerk part of it is something that I basically invented. I used to watch these guys preparing my shawarma wraps and I decided that I could marinate those same boneless chicken thighs and create jerk shawarma. So far, people are fascinated by it and they seem to love it.”

For Smiley, Wraps and Jerk is more than a family business that highlights his passion for global cuisine. It is an opportunity to share his pride of ownership with clients and set a new benchmark for excellence. “When people come here, they should expect great customer service,” he says. “Sadly, most Caribbean places are not too well known for good customer service. But we are a family business and I have a philosophy that my customers are also my family. If I don’t like the food then I won’t serve it to people. That’s my recipe for success.”

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