Blackberry’s Catering and Family Restaurant, located in Plainfield, New Jersey, aimed to be a soul food haven, but its journey took an unexpected turn when featured on Gordon Ramsay’s “Kitchen Nightmares.” This family-run establishment, fueled by a mother’s retirement fund, unfortunately became a prime example of squandered potential. While the restaurant ultimately closed its doors, the story of Blackberry’s extends beyond its televised struggles, particularly concerning its catering services.
unhappy customer complains to server
Unhappy customer expressing dissatisfaction to server at Blackberry’s Family Restaurant.
Owner Shelly Withers’ approach and the quality of the food at Blackberry’s Family Restaurant failed to attract a consistent customer base. Gordon Ramsay stepped in to revamp the menu and restaurant’s image in an attempt to turn things around. Despite Ramsay’s efforts, Blackberry’s, as a physical restaurant, ceased operations in 2013. However, it’s important to note that Blackberry’s Catering and Family Restaurant announced on their Facebook page their intention to continue offering private catering services and explore a future relocation.
Customer reviews painted a mixed picture of Blackberry’s. On Yelp, the restaurant received an average of 2.5 stars. Many reviewers expressed strong dissatisfaction, describing experiences ranging from headaches and nausea to labeling it the “Worst. ‘Soul food.’ Ever.” One review recounted a server confirming the accuracy of “Kitchen Nightmares” and stating that owner Shelly Withers had not changed her ways post-show, believing she was always right.
Conversely, some positive reviews highlighted the potential that Blackberry’s Catering and Family Restaurant possessed. One five-star review praised the “great food, good music and very friendly atmosphere with charming owner,” while another lauded the “fall off the bone, deeply seasoned, slow-cooked pork ribs” and the “warmest and friendliest atmospheres.” These contrasting reviews underscore that Blackberry’s had moments of brilliance and satisfied customers, particularly regarding certain menu items and the intended family restaurant ambiance. However, the negative experiences and operational issues ultimately overshadowed the positives for the brick-and-mortar location.
Despite the restaurant’s closure, Blackberry’s Catering and Family Restaurant seemed to keep its catering arm active for a period. As late as 2019, there were indications that the catering service was still operating, offering a glimmer of hope for the brand. The planned relocation of the restaurant, however, never came to fruition.
Mateen Booker
Mateen Booker, former sous chef at Blackberry’s, now successful executive chef.
While Blackberry’s Catering and Family Restaurant in its original form is no longer operating, the people behind it have moved forward. Shelly Withers, the owner, has been working as a kitchen manager/lead for Aramark since 2013 and also runs a custom rhinestone T-shirt business. Mateen Booker, Blackberry’s former sous chef, has achieved significant success as an executive chef at OTG Management, a hospitality company operating in airports, and has also branded himself as a “celebrity chef” offering private meal prep services.
The story of Blackberry’s Catering and Family Restaurant serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of the restaurant industry, particularly when internal conflicts and customer service issues are not addressed. While the family restaurant ultimately succumbed to these pressures, the catering aspect demonstrated resilience for a time, and key individuals from Blackberry’s have showcased their talent and determination in subsequent ventures within the food and hospitality sector.
