The global food industry has been booming, and restaurateurs have become more innovative with the increased competition. Fire Light is one establishment that has set itself apart from the rest, and though it is not the first of its kind, the raw food eatery is steadily increasing in popularity within just four months of opening its doors. With a scrumptious offering of ‘live’ delicacies, Fire Light is as much about spirituality and holistic living as it is about the cuisine. Marry this to your natural curiosity and appreciation for fine dishes and you have only just begun to appreciate the intrigue.

Thursday Food takes you on a journey to understanding fire, light and life.

In the beginning…

Ben Tsedek Ben Yehuda — the 28-year-old owner and chef at Fire Light migrated to the United States with his parents at the age of 12. His diet consisted of “the usual junk that American teenagers like to eat” and by the age of 17, he was morbidly obese. While seeking a solution to his problem, he was drawn to the healthy lifestyle of the neighbouring African Hebrew community, and upon noticing that they were all “strong and trim” he made a decision to change his eating patterns and lifestyle. He soon became a vegan, and later a member of the African Hebrew Israelite Nation of Jerusalem, and discovered his passion for and natural inclination to the creation of the nutritious, delectable treats he is known for today. The knowledgeable chef spent years researching the art of ‘live’ (raw) food preparation and after consulting a few “sacred souls” he returned home to execute their mission of bringing wholesome foods to the world. His is one of 14 African Hebrew restaurants worldwide — a franchise of sorts. And so Fire Light — which connotes the literal and spiritual importance of the sunlight to the earth, the growth of food and the human body — was born.

How it works

Foods are paired according to the enzymes contained in them so as to complement and help to break down the particles, thus partially ‘cooking’ themselves without an actual flame present.

Today…

Word spread like wildfire within weeks of opening, and now the homely restaurant boasts an impressive clientele, with a menu that is even more remarkable. The deliciously crunchy Pyramid Sandwich made with sunflower seeds, pickled vegetables and sweet ‘vegannaise’ is a definite customer favourite, but why stop there? There’s a lot more to try… how about a flavoursome Me-Eat Loaf, Coconut Lo Mein or the colourful and tasty Akchoy, for starters? The Curried Plaintain and Avocado salad is as appetising as it is healthy, and if you have a sweet tooth, Fire Light offers pies, ice cream, smoothies… even cheese cake. Or try one of the refreshing drinks… Celestial Sorrel, Banana Heaven, Papaya Dream, Carrot Nog or Coconut Mint Nut Milk, perhaps? All this plus more is available at Fire Light, and Chef Ben Tsedek plans to introduce a new vegan menu (this time, cooked) in two weeks and later branch out into catering. With prices starting from J$300.00, you can rest assured knowing that it is as good for your pocket as it is for your body. And what better way to indulge your tastebuds than with delicious, nourishing food?

Fire Light is open Mondays-Fridays from 12:00 – 8:00 pm and Sundays 2:00-6:00 pm.

Fire Light, 11 Maeven Avenue (off Hope Road).

Tel: 491-2642.