"I Feel Like I Come Home When I Come Here": Trinbagonian Food and Identity through the Lens of Crown Bakery.

Abstract

Food is interwoven with other elements of a group's culture and identity. In immigrant communities, the importance of food and food establishments can take on new meaning. Yet, limited research exists on food culture for Caribbean immigrants in the United States. Through a case study analysis, this research explored the significance of Crown Bakery - a popular Trinbagonian restaurant and one of the longest operating in Washington, DC - and its use of food and food traditions to communicate parts of Trinbagonian (Trinidadian and Tobagonian) cultural identity. This study relied on online reviews of Crown Bakery and formal and informal interviews with one of the owners of the restaurant. Based on the reviews, customers perceive Crown Bakery to be an inviting locale that celebrates Trinidad and Tobago and is a go-to culinary institution. Meanwhile, the data from the interviews point to Crown Bakery as a signature spot that reflects aspects of Trinbagonian culture - and Caribbean culture, more broadly - and is geared toward being home away from home for Trinbagonians. The findings suggest that the role of food establishments such as Crown Bakery is multilayered. Not only does Crown Bakery promote Trinbagonian and Caribbean culture to those unfamiliar with the region, but it is also a cultural anchor for those with strong ties and fosters community.