How it All Started

Caribbean Feast is locally owned, serving authentic Caribbean food. The restaurant opened its doors on January 10, 2009, at 407 Fair Road under the proud ownership of the late Noel Wheeler from Trinidad & Tobago and his wife, Jocelyn Poole, from Smithfield, Virginia, who is of Jamaican descent. 

In 2017, the restaurant closed its on-premise operation due to Noel's failing health, but continued serving customers via the weekly Statesboro Farmers’ Market, the on-line “Statesboro Market2go” and also catering for special events. Noel ultimately passed in 2023, and two years later, in 2025, Jocelyn purchased a food truck in his honor, dedicating it to the continuation of his dream.

The business was Noel’s brainchild. He had asked Jocelyn how she felt about the idea when they were dating, fearing that she would frown upon the idea on account of her professional status at Hampton University where she worked. However, to his surprise, she was all for it based on her family’s business background  and having been taught that, along with a good education, it was always good and wise to have a little business on the side. 

The Couple

Among the things Noel and Jocelyn shared was a love for cooking, both having started when they were 10 – 12 years of age. 

When Noel first met Jocelyn, he said in his rich Trini accent, "Most women are intimidated by my cooking;" and Jocelyn in return with her southern accent retorted, "Boy, please! I can make your food taste better!” Noel loved her feisty spirit. And that’s how their love was born that ultimately led to the restaurant. Noel had always been a strong advocate for education, calling it "the great equalizer.” But he loved to cook too because for him it was “the great relaxer,” plus he loved to see people enjoy his food. Jocelyn herself loves to cook too and enjoys her own cooking. She says, “If you don't buy, no problem, man! I will eat it!”

The Food/Menu

At Caribbean Feast, diners can delight in the flavorful combination of Trini, Jamaican and Southern, which makes Caribbean Feast unique. We serve a jerk BBQ, prepared southern style with a southern vinegar base -- like Smithfield Va.

Our Mac & Cheese is also southern style vs the traditional West Indian "macaroni pie," but served with succulent Caribbean style oxtail and cabbage.

Some of our other signature dishes are jerk salmon patties with grits, salt-fish cassava casserole; the Caribbean must-haves -- curry goat, brown stew chicken, jerk chicken and wings, roti, Pholourie, and coco bread. We also have Jamaican beef patties and a variety of tropical Caribbean drinks.

Look for the Caribbean Feast food truck in your area with the Trinidad and Jamaican flag.  Noel would be so proud today. His legacy lives!