Findlay Kitchen

When Jermaine “Jay” Vassell moved to America from Montego Bay, Jamaica, he carried with him a dream of building a business of his own. In 2022, that dream took physical form as Jay's Nyam & Jam —a venture fueled by Jay’s rich culinary heritage and the unwavering partnership of his wife and co-owner, Kelly Vassell. Their growth has mapped a steady trajectory, moving from their home basement to a local church kitchen before finally anchoring their business at Findlay Kitchen.

At the heart of the business is a menu built on generationally perfected expertise. Jay credits his father as the foundation for the recipes they develop today. "My dad is a great cook. His dishes have always been flavorful," Jay shares. "That's where I really get my inspiration from." The core of the menu relies on traditional staples like coconut rice and peas, lemon pepper wings, and a top-selling Rasta Pasta paired with jerk chicken or braised oxtail. To build on the momentum from these already well-loved dishes, they adapted their classic flavor profiles into street food formats for the market crowd. These additional fusion items like jerk chicken tacos, sweet potato fries, and jerk chicken bowls also quickly became crowd favorites.

When Jay and Kelly first sought out space in an incubator kitchen, their initial milestone was to launch a food truck. However, their time in Findlay Kitchen shifted their perspective. They committed to the educational process, enrolling in Findlay Learn’s Food Business Foundations course where they realized they wanted to pivot to pursuing a storefront model for their business.

Kelly recalls that the incubator provided exactly what they needed to evolve. "Findlay Kitchen, by far, offered the most resources, the most support... they have been with us just every step of the way." This methodical preparation, paired with Findlay Learn’s "Growing Into a Storefront” course, allowed them to scale efficiently. While Jay notes they were determined to succeed on their own, the program provided a crucial catalyst. "I'm not saying we wouldn't be where we are right now, but we had more support and got here quicker with Findlay Kitchen and Findlay Learn," he says.

To bring their storefront dream to life, they joined Findlay Launch, a residency-based storefront accelerator program for food-focused entrepreneurs. This program offers 15-month leases in fully equipped, ready-to-operate storefronts, allowing participants to test and scale their concepts in a real-world setting. Designed to give businesses the space and support they need to scale or safely pivot, the program provided the perfect launchpad for Jay's Nyam & Jam to establish their current brick-and-mortar location at 1809 Elm St.

Even with this exciting new space, Jay’s Nyam and Jam remains grounded by a tight-knit kitchen and staff composed almost entirely of family members who already understand the industry. "We didn't have to teach them a lot," Jay explains. “They already came in with a love for cooking and culinary experience." For Kelly, who frequented Findlay Market as a child, the business’ evolution represents an emotional milestone as well. "I grew up going to Findlay Market as a little girl. So now, to be a part of what makes Findlay Market, Findlay Market... it's a little surreal," she says.

Looking ahead, the Vassells plan to expand into a larger, full-service restaurant featuring a multi-course menu and space for traditional Jamaican games. Alongside this commercial growth, they hope to launch a mobile meal initiative to support their community.

Don't miss out on what they're building, visit their storefront at 1809 Elm Street today!

Did you know you can find your favorite Findlay Kitchen Member products right on the Findlay Market Shopping App? 🚚 It’s the perfect way to access authentic market goods with ultimate flexibility — just place your order Tuesday - Friday by 11:59 PM the night before you want it, and choose between local delivery or pickup at the Market from 3 - 7 PM on your fulfillment day!

Findlay Kitchen Members on the App:
🛒 Afromeals
🛒 Henry’s Betta Goetta
🛒 Chai For
🛒 Chamaele LLC.
🛒 Dat's Ole School Cookin'
🛒 Daveyboys Bourbon Pecans
🛒 Eliza Jane’s BakeShop/ Bakery Truck
🛒 Fire Heaven
🛒 Gather From Dawn to Dusk
🛒 Heirloom Chef
🛒 Julie G's Granola
🛒 MaiRo & Co Dog Treat Bakery
🛒 Magnificent Morsels Catering
🛒 Mixicles
🛒 Tastebuds Flavored H**p Seeds
🛒 Wendigo Tea Co.
🛒 Yee Mama

Get your Market and Kitchen favorites delivered straight to your door by shopping now: https://shop.findlaymarket.org/

Fire Heaven's signature Garlic Sizzle and Chili Fury Hot Sauces are a refined addition to any pantry! These sauces deliver a measured, mid-level heat that is neither too mild nor excessively hot, complementing a wide range of dishes from morning eggs to street tacos and salads. They also serve as a great base for spreads and aiolis. You can find them at Jungle Jim's International Market Fairfield and on the Findlay Market Shopping App, or order through their website!

Meet one of our newest Kitchen Members, Tilita! Founded by Kylla Danz, Tilita is a Peruvian dessert brand specializing in handcrafted picarones (crispy, fluffy Peruvian doughnuts served with homemade syrup), lúcuma alfajores (delicate sandwich cookies filled with dulce de leche and flavored with Peru’s iconic lúcuma superfruit), and traditional sweets inspired by family recipes and Peruvian street food culture.

Kylla started Tilita with the hope of representing Peruvians in Cincinnati, bringing authentic Peruvian flavors to the community through artisanal desserts, family tradition, and a love for sharing Peruvian culture.

Catch their “Best of Taste” winning picarones at Taste of Cincinnati this weekend! You can also find them setting up at Findlay Market Outdoor Market on the regular. 😋

Counting down the days to Taste of Cincinnati 🎊 Your favorite Findlay Kitchen members will be there so swing by the Findlay Market Zone on the corner of Broadway & 5th Street!

Schedule:
🧆 Friday, May 22: 4 - 11 PM
🍗 Saturday, May 23: 11 AM - 11 PM
🍢 Sunday, May 24: 11 AM - 11 PM
🌮 Monday, May 25: 11 AM - 8 PM

Join Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream at the Samuel Adams Taproom (1727 Logan St, Cincinnati) on Tuesday, May 19 at 5 PM for The Cincinnati Pitch Room Competition! 🎤

This event is the culmination of the ‘Brewing the American Dream’ Bootcamp, designed to help food and beverage entrepreneurs become better equipped to get their products in front of new customers. A select group of participants from this year’s cohort will compete in the Pitch Room for the chance to receive a business grant.

Reserve your seat today and support our small businesses (all while enjoying free food and beer!)
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brewing-the-american-dream-cincinnati-pitch-room-competition-tickets-1987555445842?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Catch our Best of Taste winners’ dishes at from Friday, May 22 - Monday, May 25:

Keep your eyes peeled for:

🍽️ Dat’s Ole School Cookin’: Spicy Catfish Nuggets
🍽️ Jay's Nyam & Jam Jerk Tacos, Jerk Chicken Bowl
🍽️ Olive Tree Catering Mixed Baklava
🍽️ Rocky's Home Flavor: Puff Puff (Cameroonian Beignets)
🍽️ Tilita Picarones
🍽️ Walkerbar: Aley Monster Ice Cream
🍽️ Yee Mama Wobble Wobble Cold Noodles, Handmade Wontons

Learn more about the Taste of Cincinnati lineup: https://www.findlaymarket.org/marketevents/tasteofcincinnati2026

Meet Anchu, one of our newest Findlay Kitchen members and a total hit at the Outdoor Market lately! This mother-daughter duo is known for their crisp dosas, South Indian breakfast favorites, and sandwiches layered with bold flavors like chicken pickle and sweet & spicy ginger pickle. Even better, you can take the sauces home with you. Their menu changes with the seasons, with new specials every weekend alongside favorites like the Chicken Pickle Breakfast Sandwich and Potato Masala Dosa.

Their journey at the Kitchen has perfectly set them up for a successful outdoor season. They recently completed our Findlay Learn Food Business Foundations course, which teaches emerging entrepreneurs the essentials of running a professional food business. We are so proud to see their hard work paying off! Be sure to follow their social media to keep up with their latest market pop-up schedule and grab a bite for yourself.

At its heart, Gather is more than just a name—it’s a mission statement. For co-founders Josh Peebles, Liz French, and Ambriel Stair, Gather From Dawn to Dusk reflects their ultimate goal: creating a place where people truly feel connected through food. Whether it’s through their elevated fast-casual dining, catering, or event coordination, their team has built a one-stop shop designed to be entirely customizable to their clientele. From mobile bartending at weddings to their signature "Gatherables" (elevated adult lunchables) and fan-favorite Mac and Cheese, they’ve proven that high-quality hospitality can also be deeply personal.

The road to their vision for Gather wasn't a straight line. The trio worked together previously on two other ventures under organizations that ultimately didn't pan out. However, those outcomes provided the clarity they needed to build something on their own terms. "In a lot of ways, I think we needed those endeavors to not work out," says Liz French, CEO and co-owner. "I don’t know if I would have been so willing to take that leap if they had." These setbacks served as the foundation for their unique mindset, allowing them to start over with a shared belief in the power of relationship.

For Josh Peebles, COO and co-owner, the transition to ownership has reignited his passion for the food business. The freedom to customize everything from menus to event layouts keeps the morale high. "When we started having these conversations and started Gather, it really brought back my spark," Josh says. "That drive of working sunup to sundown, dreaming about what we’re going to do—that keeps me going."

Choosing Findlay Kitchen as their incubator kitchen was a natural choice. Having previously worked in the space, the team felt a deep connection to the kitchen’s values. "It was kind of a no-brainer doing it here," Liz explains. "We felt that sense of community. It kind of does feel like coming home in that way."

Part of what makes Gather’s perspective so fresh is the diversity of the team itself. Ambriel Stair, Senior Sales Manager, notes that their strength lies in their varied life experiences. "We’re all different ages and bring something different to the table," she explains. This generational mix allows them to connect with a wide range of clients, ensuring their events feel relevant and inclusive to everyone who walks through the door.

Today, the Gather team is bringing that energy to every pop-up and catered event they take on. With a long-term goal of opening their own dedicated space, they are currently focused on what they do best: building community through food.

You can find their products on the Findlay Market Shopping App, and direct inquiries to their website or social media!

In celebration of Findlay Kitchen’s 10 Year Anniversary, we made a cookbook to commemorate just a few of hundreds of recipes created within Findlay Kitchen’s walls. Featuring current Members as well as alumni, this cookbook contains a diverse collection of recipes that mark milestones in each business’ journey.

And now for the recipe reveals! ✨

🧑‍🍳 Ghanaian Jollof Rice from Afromeals
🧑‍🍳 Arepa Dulce con Anís Rellena de Queso (Sweet Arepa with Anise) from The Arepa Place
🧑‍🍳 Pan Roasted Salmon with Blood Orange Glaze from Flourish Culinary Services
🧑‍🍳 Shepherd’s Pie from Heirloom Chef
🧑‍🍳 Jamaican Sweet Festival from Jay's Nyam & Jam
🧑‍🍳 Vegan Goetta from Juniper Seed
🧑‍🍳 Chicken & Shrimp Spring Rolls from Lotus Street Food
🧑‍🍳 Apple Wildberry Crumble from Love Thy Desserts
🧑‍🍳 Tuscan Pasta Salad from Magnificent Morsels Catering
🧑‍🍳 Rosemary & Parmesan Crackers from Makers Bakers Co.
🧑‍🍳 Monk’s Kibbeh (Kibbeh al-Raheb) from Olive Tree Catering
🧑‍🍳 Challah Bread from Pakti Foods
🧑‍🍳 Asian Cheeseball from The Passion Plate
🧑‍🍳 Salsa Verde Taquera from Sabor Alaniz
🧑‍🍳 Soupe au Pistou from Tablespoon Cooking Co.

You can pre-order the Findlay Kitchen 10 Year Anniversary Cookbook today for $25, and you will be notified when your copy is ready for pickup. All proceeds from the sale of this cookbook will be returned to Findlay Kitchen to continue supporting small businesses as they start, grow, and scale. Pre-order your copy here: https://app.betterunite.com/FindlayMarket-findlaykitchen10yearanniversarycookbook

Tastebuds H**p Seeds are organic h**p hearts tossed in organic oil, low-temperature roasted, and seasoned to perfection. Founded by Dr. James Weeks and Chef Galen Adkins, these snacks deliver a vegan, nutrient-packed, delicious crunch and make for the perfect healthy boost!

Check out the new flavors at the Jungle Jim's International Market Fairfield Demo Kitchen:

🧂 Salted
🌶️ Honey Chipotle
🧁 Cinnamon Sugar

Grab a bag the next time you’re there!

Rocky's Home Flavor is going to be at Findlay Kitchen on May 8 with a special offer you can't miss! They are offering a free bowl of their Cameroonian Spaghetti to the first 20 people who sign up. 🍝

For anyone craving a dish with new, bold flavors, this is the perfect opportunity. Spots are limited - secure yours now by signing up! Pickup begins at 2 PM on May 8. Regular pricing of $18 per bowl applies once the free bowls are claimed.

Secure your spot now! https://rockyshomeflavor.17hats.com/p #/lcf/8u1zTF7Co0YC?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnpc1NkoHdpIG6yImCGYBo-m1-Xeoijje1oEHoSjSUKinZGyIn3l-Yks9KNYs_aem_TQVwzFmbI4S0_9jWDigvCA

Daveyboys Bourbon Pecans working their magic in the kitchen! 🧑‍🍳

Happy Earth Day! 🌎

As part of a sustainable non-profit, Findlay Kitchen cares deeply about reducing our carbon footprint! We offer our members sustainable, opt-in practices to pursue a more eco-friendly production process and reduce waste, including:

♻️ Recycling for food film & soft plastics with Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub
🍎 Food scrap composting to keep organic waste out of landfills

No step is too small. Start recycling or composting and make a positive impact on the planet 🫶

Sam Adams Brewing the American Dream bootcamp supports local food and beverage entrepreneurs across the country with much-needed access to capital, networking opportunities, and business coaching to fuel emerging businesses. We are thrilled to see our Findlay Kitchen members in this year’s cohort utilizing these tools to expand their operations and bring their products to new customers!

Big News! Blue Oven Bakery has started moving into their new, spacious production facility at 1808 Elm Street! Get a look at the new space as they gear up for a fresh, delicious season. 😋

They will continue to sell from their original Findlay Market stand as usual; they are simply scaling up their production! ⬆️ It’s been a privilege to support Blue Oven at Findlay Kitchen over the years, and we’re so excited to see them move into this next chapter of their business. ♥️

Exciting new beginnings at Findlay Kitchen! 🧑‍🍳Join us in welcoming our newest talented members to the community:

🍴 Anchu
🍴 Fuhgeddaboudit
🍴 Gather From Dawn To Dusk
🍴 Okie Doke
🍴 Oury's Frosty Treats
🍴 This Stand is Bananas
🍴 Tilita

Loving this sunshine, but not the allergies that come with it? 🌺🍵 Soothe your throat and embrace the season with a cup of Wendigo Tea Co.'s Siren Throat Herbal Tea. It’s the perfect spring blend, featuring vibrant hibiscus and rosehip, while soothing your throat with slippery elm bark, ginger, marshmallow, and licorice root. You can grab a bag at their store, through their website, or the Findlay Market Shopping App - https://shop.findlaymarket.org/products/siren-throat-health-herbal-tea

What better way to kick off grilling season than with Buffalo's Best original wing sauce? 😋 Their homemade sauce is exactly the touch your wings need this spring, head to their website and grab yourself a bottle!

Outdoor Market Weather is here! 🌸 Swing by and say hello to our Findlay Kitchen members setting up this weekend:

Saturday, March 28:
🐝 Chamaele LLC.
🐝 Dat’s Ole School Cookin’
🐝 Eliza Jane’s BakeShop/ Bakery Truck
🐝 the empanada's box
🐝 Naynay's

Sunday, March 29:
🐝 Chai For
🐝 Chamaele LLC.
🐝 Dat’s Ole School Cookin’
🐝 the empanada's box
🐝 Naynay's

Fresh ingredients, curated flavors, and delicious meals are what the catering businesses at Findlay Kitchen are known for. 🍛

Check out our catering page for a full list of Findlay Kitchen members that offer catering services - from meal prep to events and private parties, they offer a wide range of options customized to you: https://www.findlaykitchen.org/catering

You still have time to get your Easter pre-orders in. 🪺 Place your order before Monday, March 30! Here are some pre-order items from Findlay Kitchen Members to get you started:

🐤 Dat’s Ole School Cookin’: Butter Pound Cake
🐤 Naynay's Homemade Yeast Rolls, Hot Cross Buns
🐤 The King's Baker: Queen’s White Chocolate Raspberry Cheesecake

Pre-order now through the Findlay Market Shopping App: https://shop.findlaymarket.org/