Relaunch Night in Ann Arbor.

This week marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for me. For nearly five years now, I've been deeply invested in FIELDTRIP, steadily building and nurturing the brand. It's incredible to reflect on the journey of crafting this brand over half a decade, and the momentum continues to build, albeit at a deliberate pace.

Simultaneously, my persona as Chef JJ is also evolving and expanding. Venturing into new communities requires a delicate balance of authenticity and resonance. Detroit captured my heart six years ago, but Ann Arbor holds a unique charm, nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Big Blue. It's a place brimming with pride, care, and, notably, exceptional culinary delights.

As I explore different locales and cuisines beyond the bustling metropolises, I'm increasingly drawn to the essence of smaller towns. In these settings, people crave not just meals but memorable experiences. This philosophy aligns seamlessly with our endeavors at the esteemed Blue LLama Jazz Club, where we're committed to delivering world-class experiences through food, drink, and ambiance.

Jazz music, with its roots deeply embedded in the diaspora, drums throughout Blue LLama. If you look at the artists that have been through there and that are coming there, the food really needs to sing along with that style of music that's coming through Blue Llama. Our menu is a reflection of this rich tapestry, drawing inspiration from the culinary traditions of Barbados, Puerto Rico, Africa, and the American South. It's a culinary symphony that resonates with the diverse sounds flowing from the stage.

Each dish on our menu tells a story, a narrative woven from my own heritage and culinary exploration. From the hearty West African Peanut Goat Noodles to the Jerk Prawns or Leeks Yassa, and the twist on Perch Escovitch featuring locally sourced Michigan perch, every plate is a celebration of flavor and culture. When you hear music and you eat food together, if it all clicks, it's very nostalgic, and that's my goal and my expectation at Blue Llama.

Looking forward, I am deeply grateful for the support of the Michigan community. Their enthusiasm fuels our passion and drives us to new heights. As we embark on this journey together, I am excited by the endless possibilities that lie ahead. With each night at Blue LLama promising a unique blend of music and cuisine, I am confident that we are on the brink of something truly extraordinary. Like my friend, and club owner, Don Hicks said with "Chef JJ's culinary vision added to the mix, this may well be the most extraordinary jazz club in the world. Every night — and every bite — is going to be a special experience." I believe it too.

And to my NYC friends, make it a weekend trip - fly into Detroit, spend some time there, and come to Ann arbor to hang with us!

-- JJ