Nestled in the heart of Andover, Island Grill & Lounge is fast becoming a local favourite, bringing a taste of the Caribbean to town and located down The Mall it’s the perfect location.
Run by Dwayn Mathurin, a St. Lucian native who served 22 years in the British Army, alongside his partner Francine, the restaurant has been offering authentic Caribbean cuisine for the past five months. Dwayn’s passion for food and hospitality, coupled with his commitment to delivering excellent service, shines through in every dish served. Check out the menu here:
Island Grill’s menu draws inspiration from across the Caribbean, influenced by Dwayn’s St. Lucian heritage and a blend of flavours from neighbouring islands. “The food is Caribbean-inspired with influences from different Caribbean islands,” he explains, making each dish unique, flavourful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
From Army Life to Restaurant Success
Dwayn’s transition from military life to the world of hospitality has been a rewarding yet challenging journey. His decision to open Island Grill was fuelled by a love for Caribbean cuisine and cherished memories of gathering around food and music in his homeland. “I wanted to create a similar experience here in Andover,” he says. While the learning curve has been steep, Dwayn finds immense satisfaction in seeing the community embrace his restaurant.
His military background has also played a part in his approach to the business. The discipline, organisation, and attention to detail that he developed during his Army career are now helping him manage the day-to-day demands of running Island Grill.
Good Food, Good Music, Good Vibes
When diners step into Island Grill, they can expect “good authentic Caribbean food, good music, and good vibes,” says Dwayn. The menu is packed with signature dishes that reflect his heritage, with favourites including Curry Goat, inspired by his roots, and the ever-popular Jerk Chicken with rice and peas. The St. Lucian Mac & Cheese pie is another hit, offering a rich, cheesy twist on a Caribbean staple.
For those new to Caribbean cuisine, Dwayn describes it as “a world of flavour,” highlighting the diverse culinary traditions of the islands. “Each island has different dishes unique to its culture and people,” he says, but overall, expect a vibrant combination of spice rubs, fragrant marinades, and hot sauces paired with soothing rum drinks and cool chutneys.
A Growing Community Favourite
Since opening, Island Grill has received an overwhelming response from the Andover community, with diners visiting from as far as Reading, Basingstoke, and Salisbury to sample its flavours. Dwayn takes pride in sourcing local ingredients whenever possible, but to truly capture the authentic taste of the Caribbean, he imports key spices and products directly from the islands.
Looking ahead, Dwayn and Francine have big plans for Island Grill. In addition to offering specials and updating the menu from time to time, they cater for celebratory occasions such as birthdays, corporate events, and wedding anniversaries, having already hosted several successful events.
A Team Effort
Francine, Dwayn’s partner in both life and business, plays a pivotal role in the restaurant’s success. She manages the administrative side of the business and handles much of the day-to-day running, while also bringing her own Jamaican influence to the table. Together, they collaborate to ensure Island Grill not only serves great food but also delivers a memorable dining experience.
Dwayn hopes that when customers visit Island Grill, they take away more than just a full stomach. “We want to create a sense of community while introducing diners to the Caribbean culture,” he says. For those who grew up in the Caribbean, Island Grill & Lounge offers a taste of home; for others, it’s a chance to relive memories of their travels to the islands.
Island Grill & Lounge is not just a restaurant—it’s a slice of the Caribbean, right in Andover, where diners can expect to enjoy vibrant food, uplifting music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of Caribbean cuisine or new to it, Island Grill promises a dining experience that’s both familiar and exciting.