Like many eateries featured on Gordon Ramsay’s “Kitchen Nightmares,” Blackberry Family Restaurant was battling internal strife. Situated in Plainfield, New Jersey, this soul food establishment was a family endeavor, funded by owner Shelly Withers using her mother’s retirement savings. However, Withers’ overbearing management style and subpar food failed to attract patrons. This led Ramsay to create a completely new menu and revamp the restaurant’s image. Unfortunately, even Ramsay’s efforts couldn’t save Blackberry’s, and it permanently closed in 2013, as indicated on their Facebook page.
According to a statement posted on their social media, Blackberry’s intended to continue offering private catering and hoped to relocate in the future. While their catering services seemed to be operational until 2019, the new restaurant location never materialized.
During the “Kitchen Nightmares” episode, Withers appeared highly resistant to Ramsay’s advice, even when her staff supported the changes. Online reviews suggested that her unwillingness to adapt was a significant factor in the restaurant’s downfall.
A disgruntled patron expresses dissatisfaction to the server at Blackberry Family Restaurant, highlighting customer service challenges.
Yelp reviews reveal that Blackberry Family Restaurant held an average customer rating of 2.5 stars during its operation. A significant portion of reviewers awarded the restaurant only one star. One review described the experience as a “horror show,” stating, “We left with headaches and a seasick, nauseous feeling.” Another customer, curious about the “Kitchen Nightmares” experience, was told by a server that the show accurately portrayed the situation and that owner Shelly Withers had not changed her approach, believing she was always right. Another review bluntly summarized the food as the “Worst. ‘Soul food.’ Ever.”
Amidst the overwhelmingly negative feedback, there were a few five-star reviews. One customer recounted, “Had a great time. Great food, good music, and a very friendly atmosphere with a charming owner. Will definitely be back!” Another praised the “fall off the bone, deeply seasoned, slow-cooked pork ribs” and lauded the restaurant for possessing “one of the warmest and friendliest atmospheres I’ve ever had the pleasure to walk into.” These contrasting reviews indicate that Blackberry Family Restaurant had untapped potential. However, Shelly Withers’ inflexibility appears to have played a crucial role in its ultimate failure. So, what became of the resolute restaurateur?
Mateen Booker, Blackberry Family Restaurant’s former Sous Chef, showcases success after Kitchen Nightmares.
Despite the closure of Blackberry Family Restaurant, Shelly Withers is currently employed by Aramark, a company providing food services and uniforms to businesses, according to her Linkedin profile. Withers has held the position of kitchen manager/lead since 2013. Her personal Facebook page also mentions her venture, Absolutely Bling, established in 2017, where she creates custom rhinestone T-shirts.
Withers isn’t the only Blackberry’s alumnus who found success post-“Kitchen Nightmares.” Mateen Booker (pictured), formerly the sous chef at Blackberry Family Restaurant, is now an executive chef at OTG Management, a hospitality group operating dining establishments in numerous airports, as per his LinkedIn profile. Booker’s Instagram account further identifies him as a “celebrity chef” offering private meal preparation services.
The restaurant industry is notoriously challenging, especially when resistance to change is involved. While Blackberry Family Restaurant didn’t survive, the individuals associated with it have demonstrated resilience and talent in their subsequent endeavors.
