Wayne Sharpe
Wayne Sharpe – Co-Founder & Executive Chef
Chef Wayne Sharpe brings over two decades of culinary expertise, seamlessly blending traditional Jamaican flavors with elevated, globally inspired cuisine. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, his passion for cooking was ignited early, preparing meals for his family and later honing his skills at a local hospitality school.
Sharpe’s culinary journey led him to Atlanta, where he co-founded Escovitchez, a premier fine-dining Jamaican restaurant acclaimed for its exquisite presentation and authentic flavors. His ability to marry traditional Jamaican dishes with sophisticated culinary techniques helped Escovitchez stand out as a top destination for those seeking a luxurious dining experience with an island flair.
In 2020, Sharpe returned to Miami and co-founded Jrk!, where he’s been at the helm since day one. The fast-casual concept reimagines Jamaican cuisine for a modern audience. Located in Aventura Mall’s Treats Food Hall, Jrk! offers customizable bowls featuring staples like jerk chicken, oxtail, and plant-based options, all crafted with Sharpe’s commitment to authenticity and bold flavors. Following its success, Jrk! expanded to Downtown Miami, bringing its signature Caribbean flavors to a broader audience.
Continuing to push culinary boundaries, Sharpe helped launch Mangrove in Downtown Miami– a vibrant, modern sister restaurant to Jrk! that doubles as a lounge and immersive Caribbean dining experience. At Mangrove, he puts a creative twist on Caribbean-inspired dishes like Lobsta’ Mac, Greenwood Lamb Chops, and richly spiced Curry Oxtail, showcasing his passion and precision in every plate.
Chef Sharpe’s culinary philosophy is rooted in delivering bold, authentic Jamaican flavors with a refined touch…ensuring each dish tells a story of heritage, heart, and innovation.
