What started out as a South LA success story has evolved into an LA County small business success story with the opening of Wah Gwaan’s second location.
Last Friday we were overjoyed to celebrate a historic milestone for one of our favorite culinary entrepreneurs, Deandrea Jones, owner of Wah Gwaan Jamaican Kitchen & Bar.
The Foundation: Leimert Park (2022)
Deandrea’s journey began four years ago. In 2022, she had a vision for a brick-and-mortar space that would bring the vibrant flavors of Jamaica to the heart of Leimert Park. Facing an uphill battle of equipment permits and facility upgrades, she connected with VSEDC’s Sr. Business Advisor Terry Gubatan.
Through VSEDC’s CDFI small business loan program, we were able to provide the capital necessary to turn that vision into a reality. As Deandrea said back then, “If it wasn’t for VSEDC, I don’t know if I’d be open today.”
The Expansion: Making History in San Pedro (2026)
Fast forward four years, and Deandrea’s ambition has only grown. When she fell in love with a building and the community in San Pedro, she knew exactly who to call. She reached out to Terry once more, seeking his strategic support for her next big move.
In a true testament to the power of the VSEDC network, Terry connected Deandrea with a finance expert who—in a stroke of professional kismet—happened to know the seller of the very building Deandrea had her heart set on.
This partnership has led to a historic first: the opening of the first-ever Jamaican restaurant in San Pedro.
“I love the community and the culture here, and I can’t wait to bring Jamaican deliciousness to San Pedro,” says Deandrea.
A Community Celebration
The grand opening was a beautiful sight, with a massive turnout from community members, local leaders, and long-time fans of Wah Gwaan. The air was filled with the scent of jerk chicken and the sound of a community cheering for a local hero’s success.
Deandrea Jones is a shining example of economic liberty in action—the freedom to grow, to choose where to invest, and to create a lasting legacy.
Visit Wah Gwaan today and taste a bit of Jamaica!
Leimert Park: 4371 Crenshaw Blvd A, Los Angeles, CA 90008
New Location: 246 N Pacific Ave, San Pedro, CA 90731
Website: wahgwaanjakitchenbar.com
Instagram: @wahgwaanjakitchenbar
Technical assistance service to Deandrea Jones was made through VSEDC’s Women’s Business Center, made possible by a generous grant by Wells Fargo Bank.
