Aleitha Harvey - Ella’s Restaurant

Today, I have the pleasure of introducing Aleitha Harvey, owner of Ella's restaurant in Cranbrook. Ella's launched earlier this year despite the pandemic, and offers absolutely incredible Jamaican/Caribbean cuisine, wine tasting nights, dinner features, breakfast, take-out options, and a truly wonderful experience.

In the midst of all of the challenges 2020 has presented, what has it been like to start a new business, and how have you adapted to keep moving forward?

Starting a new business in general carries such high uncertainties. Starting a business that is reliant on people having and spending disposable income during a global pandemic heightens these levels of uncertainties. The positive side to operating in 2020 is, one is now forced to be more creative, in tuned with your operations and to make the most calculated decisions on a daily basis.

What positive or uplifting things have you seen or experienced during this unprecedented time?

As the first and only Jamaican/Caribbean cuisine in the East and West Kootenays, we offer a niche product and this product quality is high. We have found that after a quarantine, many people were enthused and open to trying something new and novel to many. There has been and increased awareness in supporting local businesses since the pandemic and we hope this trend and best practice continues as our survival depends on this.

Have you been doing anything in particular to stay positive or create some joy in your life through all of this?

We have been appreciating every time with our new family addition, Lil Ro!

Is there anything you’d like to share, or wish people knew right now?

Firstly, absolute GRATITUDE TO CRANBROOK, for your support since we opened Ella's restaurant. Thanks for supporting our in house events and productions. Thanks to Morgan Turner for this platform, You Rock! Thanks to other local businesses who has supported us as well. And many thanks to all essential workers who has worked throughout this pandemic.