" The Fruitvale neighborhood of Oakland got a true gem when Coco Breeze opened its doors on High Street this year. With the restaurant, Annabelle Goodridge (Ann) and her daughter Merissa Lyons bring authentic Caribbean food to the East Bay— especially recipes from their roots in Trinidad and Tobago, like roti with goat and potato curry, pholourie (split pea fritters), roti wraps, and pelau, the classic Trinidadian rice dish. Its entrance into the food scene make it the only Trinidadian eatery in the city — whether you live nearby or not, it’s worth a trip ASAP."
"There are few food gifts I cherish more than a bottle of some interesting hot sauce, especially if it’s made by a well-loved local restaurant. This year, I’m hoping my stocking gets filled with a jar or two of Chef Ann’s fiery, habanero-base Trinidadian pepper sauce, which is available for purchase in person at Annabelle Goodridge’s East Oakland restaurant, Coco Breeze"