Jamaican Restaurant Jamaya Wins Solihull Business of the Year Award 2025

When you think of award-winning restaurants in Solihull, you might picture fine dining venues serving European classics. But in 2025, the culinary spotlight shone brightly on the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean. Jamaya, a beloved Jamaican restaurant in the West Midlands, triumphed at the Solihull Chamber of Commerce Awards, taking home the coveted Solihull Business of the Year 2025 title.

This win isn’t just about great food—it’s a celebration of community spirit, authentic culture, and the vision of Byron Carnegie, the Jamaya founder who turned a love for Caribbean cuisine into one of the most talked-about dining destinations in the region.

Jamaya: Bringing Caribbean Flavors to the Heart of Solihull

Located inside the bustling Touchwood Shopping Centre, Jamaya has been serving customers since it first opened its doors with a mission to bring the taste of Jamaica to Birmingham and Solihull.

From the moment guests walk in, they’re greeted with a warm, island-inspired atmosphere. The décor features bright murals, reggae rhythms playing in the background, and an open kitchen that fills the air with the scent of jerk spices, slow-cooked meats, and freshly grilled seafood.

The Signature Jamaya Experience

Jamaya isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a sensory journey. Some of its signature dishes include:

• Authentic Jamaican Jerk Chicken – marinated for 24 hours, then grilled over open flames for smoky perfection.
• Curried Goat – tender meat infused with herbs, spices, and Scotch bonnet peppers.
• Fried Plantain and Festival Bread – comforting sides that bring a true Caribbean feel to the table.
• Fresh Seafood Specials – highlighting Jamaica’s coastal influence with flavors like garlic butter shrimp and escovitch fish.

Each plate reflects the authentic recipes of Jamaica, carefully adapted to suit a wide range of tastes without losing its cultural essence.

The Road to Becoming Solihull’s Business of the Year

Recognition from the Solihull Chamber of Commerce

The Solihull Chamber of Commerce Awards 2025 recognized Jamaya for its excellence in food quality, customer service, and community impact. This Jamaican restaurant in Solihull stood out not only for its flavorful dishes but also for how it embraced diversity, created jobs, and promoted cultural appreciation in the West Midlands.

Byron Carnegie, founder of Jamaya, accepted the award with pride, thanking his hardworking team and loyal customers. He emphasized that Jamaya’s success is built on a simple principle: good food and good vibes bring people together.

Byron Carnegie: The Visionary Behind Jamaya

Every award-winning restaurant has a story, and Byron Carnegie’s journey is one of passion, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Growing up surrounded by Caribbean flavors, Carnegie wanted to share the food he loved with a wider audience. His vision was to create a restaurant that wasn’t just about eating—it was about experiencing Jamaican hospitality and culture.

Starting with a location in Birmingham, Jamaya quickly gained a following. Expansion into Touchwood Shopping Centre in Solihull marked a significant milestone, allowing the brand to reach even more customers. Today, Jamaya is a household name for those seeking Jamaican food in the West Midlands.

What Makes Jamaya Stand Out Among Solihull Award-Winning Restaurants

In an area known for its competitive dining scene, Jamaya’s success is no small feat. Several factors set it apart:

1. Authentic Caribbean Cuisine

Jamaya stays true to the roots of Jamaican cooking while keeping dishes approachable for newcomers. The use of traditional jerk marinades, Scotch bonnet peppers, and tropical spices ensures each dish feels genuine.

2. Consistent Quality

From Jamaya restaurant reviews online to word-of-mouth recommendations, customers consistently praise the flavor, portion sizes, and presentation of the food.

3. Welcoming Atmosphere

Whether it’s a family dinner, a quick lunch, or a celebration, Jamaya offers a relaxed yet vibrant dining space.

4. Community Engagement

Jamaya has hosted cultural events, supported local charities, and provided opportunities for young chefs to learn about Caribbean cooking.

Customer Reviews and Public Response

The Jamaya restaurant reviews following the award have been overwhelmingly positive. Diners commend the rich flavors, generous portions, and friendly staff. Many mention that the jerk chicken is the best they’ve had outside Jamaica, while others praise the restaurant for introducing them to Caribbean cuisine for the first time.

In addition to locals, Jamaya has become a must-visit spot for visitors to Solihull, further boosting its reputation.

The Importance of This Win for Caribbean Cuisine in the West Midlands

Winning the Solihull Business of the Year 2025 is more than just a personal achievement for Jamaya—it’s a moment of recognition for Caribbean cuisine in the UK. The award signals a growing appreciation for diverse culinary traditions and encourages other cultural food businesses to aim high.

For the West Midlands, it also showcases the region’s openness to new flavors and cultural influences, making it a richer and more inclusive dining destination.

Jamaya’s Future Plans After the Big Win

With this award under its belt, Jamaya is looking ahead. Byron Carnegie has hinted at possible new menu additions, more community events, and perhaps even new locations. While nothing has been confirmed, one thing is certain: the team’s commitment to quality and authenticity will remain unchanged.

The restaurant also plans to use its platform to further promote Caribbean culture, possibly introducing themed nights featuring live music, cooking classes, and collaborations with Jamaican food producers.

Tips for Visiting Jamaya at Touchwood Shopping Centre

If you’re planning to try Jamaya for yourself, here are some tips to make the most of your visit:

1. Book Ahead on Weekends – Jamaya’s popularity means tables fill quickly.
2. Try the Jerk Chicken First – It’s the restaurant’s signature and a must-order.
3. Explore the Sides – Dishes like rice and peas, fried dumplings, and plantains complete the experience.
4. Ask for Spice Level Adjustments – The team is happy to tailor the heat to your taste.
5. Save Room for Dessert – Sweet treats like rum cake are worth it.

Why Jamaya’s Win Matters for Solihull’s Dining Scene

Solihull has long been known for its mix of traditional British pubs, high-end eateries, and popular chains. The success of Jamaya Birmingham and Solihull proves that independent, culturally rich restaurants can thrive here too.

This win also adds another award-winning restaurant to Solihull’s portfolio, further positioning the area as a prime dining destination in the West Midlands.

Conclusion: A Well-Deserved Victory for Jamaya

The story of Jamaya is a testament to the power of passion, authenticity, and community connection. By combining traditional Jamaican flavors with a welcoming atmosphere and top-tier service, Byron Carnegie and his team have not only delighted taste buds but also earned a place in Solihull’s business history.

Winning Solihull Business of the Year 2025 is just the beginning. With its loyal following, exceptional food, and dedication to cultural authenticity, Jamaya is poised for an even brighter future.

If you’re in the West Midlands and looking for a dining experience that’s both delicious and memorable, Jamaya at Touchwood Shopping Centre should be at the top of your list.