Dada Cuisine: Bon Goût Lakay – A Taste of Home in Every Bite

Food is more than just sustenance—it’s a story, a memory, a connection to home. For many in the Haitian diaspora, Dada Cuisine: Bon Goût Lakay embodies just that. Founded by Geralda Lebrun in New York City, this culinary haven is a love letter to the flavors of Haiti, where West African and Caribbean influences blend into dishes that comfort the soul and awaken the senses.

A Culinary Heritage Rooted in History

Haitian cuisine is an intricate fusion of African, French, Taino, and Spanish influences, reflecting the island’s complex history. West African ingredients like okra and jute leaves, known in Haiti as lalo, meet European culinary techniques and indigenous spices, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience.

Staples That Define the Haitian Table

Griot – The King of Haitian Street Food

If there’s one dish that can instantly bring Haitians together, it’s griot. These crispy, marinated pork chunks are first simmered in a medley of citrus and spices, then deep-fried to golden perfection. The result? A tantalizing mix of juicy tenderness on the inside and a crispy, flavorful crust on the outside. Served with a side of pikliz—a fiery pickled slaw made of cabbage, carrots, and Scotch bonnet peppers—griot is a must-have for any Haitian feast.

Diri ak Djondjon – The Black Gold of Haitian Cuisine

Diri ak djondjon, or Haitian black mushroom rice, is a dish steeped in both flavor and folklore. Djondjon mushrooms, native to Haiti, infuse the rice with a dark, earthy essence that’s both rich and comforting. Traditionally paired with seafood or stewed meats, this dish is a staple for special occasions, bringing a depth of flavor that lingers long after the last bite.

Soup Joumou – A Symbol of Freedom

Few dishes hold as much cultural significance as soup joumou. This hearty squash soup, made with beef, pasta, potatoes, and a medley of vegetables, is more than just a meal—it’s a tribute to Haiti’s independence. Once forbidden to enslaved Africans by French colonizers, soup joumou became a symbol of triumph when Haiti won its freedom in 1804. Today, Haitians around the world celebrate their independence every January 1st with a steaming bowl of this flavorful, golden-hued delicacy.

Pâté Haïtien – The Ultimate Haitian Pastry

Flaky, buttery, and packed with savory fillings, pâté haïtien is Haiti’s answer to the classic turnover. These small, handheld pastries come stuffed with spicy beef, chicken, herring, or salted cod, making them the perfect on-the-go snack or party favorite. The layers of delicate dough and rich, well-seasoned fillings create a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist.

Haitian Spaghetti – A Comfort Dish with a Twist

Haitian spaghetti may surprise those unfamiliar with the cuisine, but for Haitians, it’s a beloved breakfast staple. This unique dish takes spaghetti and sautés it with onions, peppers, tomato paste, and either hot dogs, smoked herring, or sausage. Unlike Italian pasta dishes, there’s no creamy sauce here—just a flavorful, well-seasoned, and slightly spicy medley that’s both filling and satisfying.

Lalo – A Taste of the Land

Lalo, or jute leaves stew, is a dish that brings out Haiti’s African roots. Slow-cooked with beef, crab, and an array of spices, lalo is packed with nutrients and an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that pairs beautifully with white rice. It’s a dish that feels as nourishing as it is delicious, often reminding Haitians of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.

Geralda Lebrun’s Vision for Haitian Cuisine

Geralda Lebrun didn’t just open a restaurant—she created a movement. In a city known for its diversity, she carved out a space where Haitians and non-Haitians alike could gather to experience the warmth and richness of Haitian food. Dada Cuisine isn’t just about serving meals; it’s about storytelling, preserving culture, and ensuring that the next generation doesn’t lose touch with their culinary heritage.

Through her dedication, she has introduced countless New Yorkers to the soulful depth of Haitian flavors, proving that food is one of the most powerful ways to bridge cultures. Whether it’s a nostalgic bite of griot for a homesick Haitian or the first spoonful of soup joumou for a curious newcomer, every dish at Dada Cuisine carries a story worth savoring.