Lukka Kairi Restaurant and Bar, which opened its doors to the Bahamian public last week, raised $13,093.00 at its grand opening charity event on Saturday evening.

One hundred percent of the donations between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. were earmarked for Teen Challenge Bahamas, a foundation that offers assistance to young people afflicted by a variety of social ills.

Through their $75 donations, patrons will help Teen Challenge remodel its dorms, lockers, bathrooms and kitchen, as well as build on its targeted programs.

“This is really significant for us because we were desperately in need,” said Barbara Lockhart, Teen Challenge founding member and president of the board.

“We needed to refurnish our dorms, the beds and so forth. So, this is a tremendous contribution for us.”

Lockhart indicated that there are 16 people in Teen Challenge’s live-in program and another 60-plus people in its rehab, drug treatment, anger management and other support programs.

The foundation also touches hundreds of young people sent by the courts and schools.

“I am so thankful and grateful for this restaurant coming forward and helping us,” Teen Challenge Executive Director Eric Fox said. “I truly believe that a lot of these young men are products of their environments.

“If we can improve their environment - where they live - and make it clean, and nice, it will change the way they think.

“It will also change the way they view the world, the way they view themselves and the way they deal with others.”

Lukka Kairi seats over 200 people in its tri-level dining floor and bar.

Each level is designed to provide an ocean view from any angle inside the restaurant.

Its open kitchen concept allows guests to meet the chefs and view the food preparation.

Prior to the ribbon cutting, Minister of Tourism Obie Wilchcombe said the restaurant and bar should serve as another “welcoming mat to our wonderful tourism destination”.

He commended Arturo Salas, owner of Lukka Kairi and Senor Frogs for his continued work and investment in The Bahamas.

“If we are going to be the best in the world, we have to create more, do more, be more creative, and we have to ensure that we are investing in our Bahamas,” he said to a round of applause.

The restaurant located on Woodes Rodgers Walk between the Straw Market and Pompey Square is a refreshing cultural experience that boasts all things Bahamian.

Lukka Kairi’s unique johnny cake croutons, lobster roll with shallots, corn conch fritters, shrimp and grits, plantain crusted catch of the day with coconut sauce and tamarind ribs offers a broad taste pallet.

The newest fixture of the downtown scene also boasts several specialty cocktails, which offer the perfect merging between Bahamian and Latin flavor.

The craftsmanship of its floors, bar, ceiling and walls add depth to the bright, but earthy tones seen throughout the restaurant.

Lukka Kairi’s collection of large saltwater aquariums showcase dozens of Bahamian spiny lobster and conch, adding to the ambiance.

Music selections by live Bahamian bands and a large mural depicting the history of The Bahamas creates an elegant atmosphere with an authentic Bahamian feel.

The mural, which acts as a supporting background, is called ‘90 Feet of Madness’, according to the artist, Allan Wallace, of Design Strong Studios.

“It took around two months; not working every day as there were times when I took a week off and stood back,” said Wallace, who attended the charity event.

“The reaction has been very, very positive. There have been many different types of people, including tourists and locals, who have shown appreciation for the work.”

Numerous business leaders and civil society luminaries were on hand to lend their support.

For more information please visit www.lukkakairi.com

Photos Credit: Sophia Taylor Photography