It was a warm Tuesday evening in Brooklyn when I walked into Sweet Catch BK. Owned by Ka-wana Jefferson, a powerhouse Black woman and mother of two, the restaurant has been a staple in the Crown Heights community for three years. And on this night, the vibe was undeniable.
BrownStyle Magazine was invited to preview the restaurant’s “Curated By Us” menu for NYC Restaurant Week Summer 2025, and during the event, I quickly realized Sweet Catch isn’t just a brunch spot— it’s a space that celebrates Black excellence and flavor.
As I walked into the restaurant, I was in awe of the lovely and inviting decor.
The space was very cozy and clean with greenery draping from the ceiling, warm lighting, gold accents, and the kind of energy that makes you want to stay a little longer. Everyone was smiling. Everyone was mingling. And the food? The food was truly the highlight of my night!
Let’s Talk About The Food
Hands down, Sweet Catch BK has some of the best steak I’ve ever had. Then came the lobster noodles (yes, lobster and noodles!) and curry mussels that had the whole room buzzing. I am not big on seafood, but as the waiters suggested I try, I couldn’t help but indulge myself in something new and potentially delicious. Mr review: 100% delicious.
We were served finger food-style chicken and waffles, which were beautifully plated and easy to share, though I did think they could use just a touch more seasoning. I mentioned this to the chef, who smiled and admitted, “They told me to stop seasoning the chicken… but I’m going to season it more.”
No one wants high blood pressure, but I respect a chef who listens and stands on flavor!
More About Ka-Wana Jefferson
Ka-wana Jefferson, a mother of two and visionary, is no stranger to flavor or flair. Jefferson was just as warm and intentional as the space she’s created. When I spoke to her, she shared that her inspiration is legacy. “A sense of responsibility to provide for our people,” she tells BrownStyle exclusively.
She also dropped a heavy truth: only a third of one percent of restaurants in the U.S. are owned by Black women. That’s exactly why nights like these at spaces like Sweet Catch matter so much.
Others In Attendance
Also in attendance was Rondel Holder, Brooklyn native and SVP of Content & Diversity Initiatives at NYC Tourism. He spoke to the importance of Restaurant Week as a platform for highlighting underrepresented voices in the food industry.
He explained how Restaurant Week isn’t just about food but also visibility, which includes letting our flavors, stories, and spaces shine on dinner plates.
The evening ended on a high (and sweet) note with a taste of Jefferson’s second business: a dessert brand based in Queens. I had the mango sorbet and nearly fell in love. Light, fresh, and the perfect finale to a soulful evening.
I left Sweet Catch BK with a full belly and a full heart. Good food hits different when it’s made with purpose. It was a love letter to us!
Be sure to make your reservation and let them know that Tiffany from BrownStyle sent ya!
Editor’s Note: This story has been edited and condensed for clarity.
By BrownStyle Magazine in Special Editions
72 pages, published 1/17/2025
