In 2024, Libyan immigrant Charlesetta “Clarice” Norkeh opened Clarice Kitchen, a restaurant centered on West African cuisine. The restaurant emerged from a trend she discovered upon moving to Louisville: the severe lack of West African food. For the past few years, she’s been combating this deficiency by selling delicious, authentic meals from her restaurant in Buechel. I had the opportunity to have some dishes for dinner one night at Clarice Kitchen and the experience was excellent.
To start, anyone looking to try Clarice Kitchen should note that the portions are substantial, which I did not expect when ordering. I ended up with a tray of chicken with jollof rice and fried plantains and a large portion of stew with fufu and white rice. The night I purchased the meal, I barely put a dent in it and my family ate leftovers for the rest of the week. On account of the large portions, I recommend that groups eating at Clarice Kitchen order one or two meals, instead of each purchasing their own. The meals, between 20 and 30 dollars, are reasonably priced considering the portions and quality.
Chicken with jollof rice was by far my favorite dish at Clarice Kitchen. The chicken was incredibly flavorful and cooked to perfection, accompanied by a sauce on the side for those who prefer a spicier taste. Norkeh recommended this dish for customers who are trying West African food for the first time, as they may be more familiar with the flavor profile…