Mothers across Mandeville and neighbouring parishes were treated to more than just flowers this Sunday (May 11), as they were introduced to a new culinary gem, Roast Bistro by Toast, which opened its doors at Shop 1A, Central Plaza.

A sibling to the renowned fine dining Toast restaurant, the bistro offers the same meticulous attention to detail, but presents it through a more relaxed lens.

The bistro, a cosy, café-style eatery, welcomed families on Sunday to its warm, modern space for a Mother’s Day brunch that struck the perfect balance between comfort food and heartfelt charm.

Matthew Jones, founder of Roast Bistro by Toast, explained that launching on Mother’s Day was a deliberate decision. “It was important to us that our first service is about honouring others, and who better to start with than the mothers who do so much, often without thanks. It set the tone for the kind of experience we want Roast to deliver: warm, inclusive, meaningful.”

“Roast was created because we saw a gap in the market for something quick, modern, and rooted in various cuisines, with healthier options that don’t compromise on flavour,” said Jason Whyte, co-owner. “We wanted to create a space where people could grab a thoughtfully prepared meal, enjoy great coffee, and feel connected to the community, whether they have a 10-minute break or an hour.”

Offering a specially curated brunch menu from their main offerings, the brunch began with a comforting selection of appetisers.

Though designed as a to-go-style bistro, a breezy deck with outdoor seating allowed diners to relax, laugh, and savour the moment. Guests enjoyed a rotating soup of the day, rich with herbs and spice, followed by two fresh, textured salads.

The roast house salad was a colourful mix of kale, seasonal fruit, dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts, topped with balsamic vinaigrette and optional feta cheese. Mi granny salad paid tribute to island tradition with quinoa, kale, and tangy vinaigrette – a dish that felt both familiar and inventive.

Main courses offered a satisfying balance between indulgence and nutrition.

The Teriyaki bowl featured glazed chicken or pork atop fluffy coconut rice, finished with slaw, roasted corn, and pickled carrots. The chickpeas bowl presented a vegetarian option with curried chickpeas on a bed of coconut rice and smoky roasted corn, rich and earthy in every bite.

The “I Am Jamaican” plates brought bold flavours and cultural pride to the forefront.

The fried chicken served with chef’s sauce and slaw, arrived golden and crisp, with an interior tender enough to fall off the bone. The sliced fish of the day was seared to delicate perfection and paired with the same fresh slaw and sauce, offering a lighter but equally satisfying option.

Desserts and beverages tied the meal together with cool refreshments and comforting sweetness. Vanilla soft serve came swirled and smooth, while the berry smoothie blended seasonal fruits and bananas into a bright, icy treat.

Coffee lovers had their pick of frappuccino, café latte, or mochaccino – all made with bold espresso and finished with cream or flavour like hazelnut and caramel.

For those who preferred tradition, the chocolate tea was rich, thick, and sweetened with condensed milk – a nod to Sunday morning kitchens across the island.

OCR Entertainment’s upbeat selections added to the celebratory atmosphere of the event.

Guests enjoyed both the food and entertainment, with many taking photos by the blush-toned floral backdrop outside the bistro proudly declaring “A Toast to Mum at Roast”, conversing, and lingering on the deck into the afternoon.

Genieve Austin, a resident from Clarendon and mother of two, described the brunch as “a refreshing experience in every way.” She added, “The food was thoughtful, the setting was beautiful, and the music really set the mood. It was nice to feel celebrated – and full.”

As a special Mother’s Day touch, each mother in attendance was gifted a 10 per cent discount voucher, valid through 31 May.

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