From Trinidad Roots to Seattle
Founded in 2006, this family-owned Caribbean restaurant shares Trinidadian cooking shaped by years of catering, community support, and a journey from a small snack shack to Seattle.
From a Small Shack to a Big Dream
The story of Pam’s Kitchen begins over 20 years ago in Trinidad, where Pam Jacob ran a small spot called Pam’s Snack Shack. Cooking was part of daily life, and the dream of opening a full restaurant slowly took shape. Pam carried those early lessons with her when she moved to Seattle, holding onto the goal of sharing the food and spirit she grew up with. That dream stayed close, even while starting fresh in a new place.
Building a Path in Seattle
After arriving in Seattle around 1994, Pam worked hard to support herself while cooking for others on the side. She began catering for clients and friends, and word spread quickly, especially about her roti. Encouraged by the response, she opened a booth at a University District street fair. The long line of visitors showed there was real interest, and it pushed Pam to take the next step toward opening a restaurant.
Growing with the Community
In 2006, Pam opened her first kitchen in the University District, introducing many guests to Trinidadian food for the first time. The space became cozy and lively, shaped by family and community. A second location followed in 2013, and in 2015 the original kitchen moved to Wallingford. Today, the restaurant continues to grow in its new home, sharing culture, care, and a welcoming spirit with neighbors near and far.
