- Sheepfolds, Monkwearmouth, Sunderland, SR5 1BA
- 07983 001669
Ryan’s journey into food wasn’t planned. After a career-ending injury as a firefighter, he turned back to something that had always been part of his life – Caribbean cooking, shaped by his Trinidadian roots and family recipes passed down through generations. Living in the North East, he saw a clear gap: authentic Caribbean food simply wasn’t being represented.
That’s how The Calabash Tree began – from small pop-ups in his trailer to award-winning recognition, built on passion and self-taught skill. At his restaurant, at Sheepfolds Stables, Sunderland, the vision is simple: bring bold Caribbean flavour, culture, and a different kind of dining experience to the area – something vibrant, welcoming, and rooted in real food.
Ryan’s cooking is rooted in the recipes he grew up with — dishes shaped by family, tradition, and Caribbean heritage. Staples like the curry chicken are still made the same way they always have been, carrying the flavours and memories of home. At the same time, the menu continues to evolve, blending those foundations with new ideas to create food that feels both authentic and elevated.
Caribbean cuisine is all about depth, culture, and balance. Influenced by a mix of global flavours, it’s bold and full of character without being overpowering. Dishes like the jerk salmon highlight that perfectly — combining traditional seasoning with fresh, vibrant elements to create something that’s as refined as it is rooted in tradition.
Ryan is set to appear on the upcoming series of Great British Menu, representing the North East.
“It’s a proud moment and a real honour to be part of a competition that brings together some of the most talented chefs from across the country.”
Taking part has offered a completely different kind of challenge to the day-to-day rhythm of the kitchen. Not only does it push Ryan both creatively and personally – encouraging new ways of thinking about flavour, presentation and storytelling through food – it also offers the chance to see how other chefs approach their craft.
Throughout the experience, the focus remained the same – staying true to the bold, layered flavours and Caribbean influences that define Calabash Tree.
Catch Ryan on Great British Menu from Tuesday, March 24th, on BBC2 and BBC iPlayer.
Book your table and experience bold Caribbean flavour, warm hospitality, and dishes made to share.
