A much-loved Jamaican takeaway in Brent has taken home the Mayor’s Recognition Award in celebration of their contribution to the community.
Harlesden’s Mister Patty is a family-owned Caribbean restaurant which has been bringing the taste of Jamaica to the borough for over 50 years and was presented with the award on 9 May by Mayor Ryan Hack.
The accolade, which is given in appreciation of community heroes, was awarded to Mister Patty following the public’s nomination of the shop.
Shop owner Roger Lue-Fong said: “It makes us feel very special that people recognise us in Brent.
“It makes what we do worthwhile.
“Things can be hard sometimes with the economic situation at the moment, but it’s nice that we can put a smile on people’s faces and be a place that people can come to and feel at home.”
Opened in the 1960s, Mister Patty began as a home-based business ran by Roy Lue-Fong, of Jamaican birth and Chinese descent, and his wife Cindy.
After noting a lack of authentic Jamaican patties in the area, they began selling their homemade goods door-to-door until they opened their shop on Craven Park Road in 1972.
Established in London’s unofficial reggae capital, the shop represents a home away from home for Harlesden’s strong Caribbean community.
The business is now operated by Roy’s and Cindy’s son, Roger, and has been committed to preserving and sharing Jamaican culture since its launch over half a century ago through both food and music.
Lue-Fong said: “It’s nice to have a shop like ours where people can experience what we call the real taste of Jamaica.
“A lot of people have said it’s almost like eating at home.”
Receiving the Mayor’s Recognition Award has only strengthened Roger’s resolve to keep Mister Patty as an authentic, family-style business whcih always prioritises quality.
He said: “We’d like to keep it the same.
“My parents always liked to keep things small.”
Feature image: Roger Lue-Fong
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