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Haitian Flavors Find a Home in Augusta
2025-03-25

Stepping into Good Samaritan Community Haitian Cuisine feels akin to entering the home of an old friend, where warm smiles and hearty welcomes await. This newly opened eatery at 3030 Milledgeville Road, adjacent to Saints Sanctuary First Haitian Church of Augusta, is not merely a place for dining but also serves as part of a broader ministry led by Pastor Harry Augustin. His daughter, Neph Atalie, who manages the establishment, highlights that it aims to nourish both body and soul by offering nutritious, comforting meals to Augusta's expanding Haitian population. For many, this restaurant has become a sanctuary amid global turmoil, reconnecting them with familiar flavors they've longed for since leaving their homeland.

Pastor Harry Augustin envisioned his restaurant as more than just a business—it’s an extension of his spiritual mission. Located next to the church he pastors, the venue embodies his commitment to fostering community through healthy eating. According to Atalie, her father insists on reimagining traditional Haitian dishes to make them healthier without sacrificing taste. A prime example is griot, typically fried pork, which Augustin reinvents using baking techniques while retaining its authentic flavor profile. Similarly, vegetable-rich alternatives enhance classic items like pâtés, turning these comfort foods into nutritious options.

The significance of this culinary endeavor extends beyond mere sustenance. As Atalie recounts, patrons often express profound emotions upon tasting familiar dishes, some even shedding tears due to nostalgia. Prior to the restaurant's opening, locals traveled extensively—to Florida or Atlanta—for genuine Haitian cuisine. Now, Good Samaritan Community Haitian Cuisine offers a convenient gathering spot where cultural bonds are strengthened over shared meals. One standout dish is legume, a slow-cooked stew brimming with rich flavors from proteins and diverse vegetables such as eggplant and chipotle peppers.

Good Samaritan Community Haitian Cuisine operates Monday through Saturday, beginning at 7 a.m., with varying closing times depending on the day. By blending tradition with innovation, the establishment exemplifies how food can unite communities while promoting well-being. Its slogan—"Eat well, live well, be well"—encapsulates this holistic approach to hospitality and health.

Through thoughtful preparation and unwavering dedication, Pastor Augustin and his team have transformed a simple restaurant into a vibrant hub of culture and connection. Their efforts reflect a deep understanding of what it means to serve others—whether through faith, food, or fellowship—and demonstrate how meaningful change can arise from small yet impactful gestures.

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