November 2020: Taste Seduction

Taste Seduction is an authentic and unique Jamaican restaurant just off of Dundas St. W on Keele. While it may be tucked away, it’s still a Junction mainstay. Run by husband and wife Vernon Young and Theresa Berdoe-Young, Vernon serves up various Jamaican dishes as the executive chef. A native of Jamaica himself, Vernon has years of experience under his belt, working at several Jamaican hotels and many Canadian restaurants.

Taste Seduction began as a catering company started by Vernon and Theresa, and while it was a successful operation, Vernon had always dreamed of owning a restaurant. While they had many opportunities to open their restaurant, they had trouble finding the right location. When 399 Keele St. became available, they jumped on the location. The pair was aware that being off the course of heavy foot traffic on Dundas St. W would provide a challenge, but they were ready to take it on. 

Taste Seduction’s menu was created thoughtfully by Vernon, incorporating in-house dry rubs and marinades made with traditional herbs and spices to mix Jamaican cuisine with other cultures and create fresh, accessible, and authentic Jamaican flavour that everyone can enjoy. Vernon Young shows his talent by honouring their motto, “quality, freshness and good taste guaranteed.”

Vernon Young and Theresa appreciate the support they receive through the BIA and the Junction community, expressing their love for the friendly faces that come with being a part of the community. They greatly appreciate their loyal and new customers who continue to support their business through tough times. They ask that everyone stays safe and continues to wear a mask and physically distance when stopping by at Taste Seduction.

If you’re looking for authentic Jamaican flavour close to home, stop by and visit Vernon and Theresa just around the corner.

Riley Wiley, Journalism Intern, The Junction BIA