Simpson’s Caribbean Culinary Legacy
Chef Simpson’s dream became reality with the opening of Simpson Restaurant & Bar in Brooklyn near
the Barclays Center.
Chef Wenford “Patrick” Simpson’s journey began in a small town on Jamaica’s north coast, where he was raised by a hardworking single mother in difficult circumstances. As a child, he often had to cook for himself and his younger sister using whatever ingredients were available. One memorable cooking mistake involving too much curry in a cabbage and rice dish sparked a lifelong passion for food and taught him that cooking could bring comfort, creativity, and connection even during hardship.
Simpson’s professional culinary career started modestly after a high-school internship led to work as a prep cook in a hotel kitchen. Determined to grow, he later joined Royal Caribbean and Disney cruise ships, where he spent more than a decade mastering international cuisines and rising to executive sous-chef positions. These experiences sharpened his skills and deepened his appreciation for coastal and Caribbean-inspired cooking.
After relocating to the United States, Simpson worked in several respected New York City restaurants, including Negril Village and the B.B. King Blues Club & Grill. His talent earned him opportunities to prepare meals for celebrities, entertainers, and political figures such as Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, and Hillary Clinton. Despite these accomplishments, Simpson dreamed of opening a restaurant that fully celebrated his Caribbean heritage and sense of community.
That dream became reality with the opening of Simpson Restaurant & Bar in Brooklyn near the Barclays Center. The restaurant quickly gained attention for its lively atmosphere and bold Caribbean-American fusion menu featuring jerk chicken, braised oxtails, Hennessy fried shrimp, and five-cheese macaroni pie.
More than a restaurant, it became a welcoming community gathering place where culture, music, and food blended seamlessly.
Building on the Brooklyn success, Simpson expanded to Simpson Restaurant in Atlantic City. After originally opening on the Boardwalk at ACX1 Studios in 2024, the restaurant recently reopened in a larger and more prominent location on Atlantic Avenue near Caesars.
The new venue combines Caribbean soul food with a sports bar atmosphere, offering indoor beach views, craft cocktails, and an energetic setting for celebrations, family dinners, and game nights.
As Chef Simpson’s brand continues to grow, he is now preparing to open a new restaurant in Miami, further expanding his vision of bringing Caribbean soul food and culture to new audiences.
Today, his restaurants represent far more than dining destinations—they reflect resilience, heritage, creativity, and community. Through flavorful dishes and warm hospitality, Simpson continues to prove that food can unite people, celebrate identity, and create unforgettable experiences.
