TASTEMAKER: Q & A with Head Chef Jimron Purcell
In the newly reopened Clubhouse, Head Chef Jimron Purcell Connects His Grandmother's Cooking with World-Class Culinary Vision One Dish at a Time.
Q: Can you tell me about your background and career as a chef?
A: I was born on Tortola but grew up in Grenada and always spent time with my grandmother in the kitchen, learning different ways of cooking and baking. I went to College in Grenada, studying the culinary arts. After that, I traveled to Florida and joined the Hilton Hospitality family. Eventually, returning to Tortola to give back what I had learned. I started in small restaurants and eventually became the head chef at Cooper Island Beach Club. Now at the helm of the kitchens at BEYC, I'm excited to see what the future holds for Bitter End's next chapter.
Q: Can you tell me about the concept for the Clubhouse restaurant?
A: At its core, The Clubhouse is an elegant place for friends and family to gather after a day out on the water. The menu is inspired by flavors from Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn and is a reflection of Bitter End's rich history. We take a farm + sea-to-table approach and have strong relationships with local farmers and fisherman. Our service style is elegant but relaxed-just like Bitter End.
Q: Can you tell me about the process of rolling out the Clubhouse menu and opening it for the first time?
A: The Clubhouse has a certain heritage at Bitter End, so I spent time getting to know the history of the place and what it is all about---which is sailing and spending time in, on and around the water. As we hosted various special events and private dinners, we took note of the most popular dishes and then curated a menu based on guest favorites. Each dish is special and we are very proud of what is on the plate at The Clubhouse.
Q: What feedback have you received from guests on the experience so far?
A: The feedback has been amazing! Guests love experiencing our unique dining options. They can choose from the casual atmosphere of the Buoy Room and the fine-dining style of the Clubhouse. The atmosphere in The Clubhouse is vintage Caribbean. Once you step inside, you are transported back to a different world. There's a certain magic in The Clubhouse that feels timeless.
Q: What have been your favorite moments at Bitter End so far?
A: What stands out to me is the family atmosphere at Bitter End, and I love it. From the owners to the president to each manager, everyone treats each other like they have known each other for a long time. You get that in very few places or industries.