Mt. Vernon, NY (September 29, 2008):  Despite inclement weather and fresh off his appearances on Late Night with David Letterman and Regis and Kelly, Usain Bolt, the World's Fastest Man and Jamaica's native son, came in search of a reminder of home - the edible kind - at Ripe Kitchen and Bar in Mt. Vernon, NY this past weekend.

After being greeted by Executive Chef and owner Nigel Spence, Usain immediately ordered the restaurant's signature dish, Ripe's 16 oz Jerk Rib-eye Steak with a special request for a generous helping of French Fries. This was the same dish that secured Chef Spence a victory in the original grill off against American culinary star and Iron Chef Bobby Flay last year.

Chef Spence remarked, “I am thrilled to know that Mr. Bolt chose Ripe to dine with his family and friends and it was a great honor to cook for him.  He has instilled a sense of genuine pride in all Jamaican nationals and Caribbean people as a whole.  I am very proud of his accomplishments and excited about his future. It was a great feeling to see him relax and enjoy himself in our laid back atmosphere and best of all, I’m sure he enjoyed the change from the fast food he reportedly had while in China!"

Chef Spence, who was born in Kingston, Jamaica,  has appeared on numerous programs including  Food Network's Throwdown with Bobby Flay and Rematch on the Grill, Neighborhood Eats (WABC -NY), Tony's Table (WCBS-NY), Air Jamaica's Island Stylee and On The Level with Hezi Aris (WVOX).

Ripe Kitchen and Bar has received critical acclaim from the New York Times, Westchester Magazine and the Journal News.

For additional information please log on to www.riperestaurant.com.