Gillian Webb’s new Washington Avenue restaurant, Island Cho, is named in honor of her late daughter, Amara.

Webb said Island Cho means “island butterfly” and that Amara, who died at just 6 years old, “loved butterflies, and she connects with us through them.”

Webb and her family opened the doors to Island Cho, a Caribbean restaurant, on July 5. The eatery’s offerings include Jerk Chicken, Jamaican beef patties, Cho salmon, and much more.

Webb runs the restaurant with her husband, Charlton, and her nephew Omari Wright. Also, sometimes, 4-year-old Adaolisa can be found following her mom around the place.

“I have been cooking and catering for a few years,” Webb said. “To open this place, I thought something like this was really needed in the community. I know people – a lot of people – go on vacation, and then they have Caribbean food. They come back and don’t know where to find it. I decided to bring it to them.”

Webb said the food she offers is more Trinidad- and Jamaican-style.

“I grew up with my mom, who cooked every day, and when I got the chance to cook, I never stopped,” she said.

For years, Webb stayed home with Amara, who was stricken with cystic fibrosis. The girl passed away three years ago.

“Cooking was my way to help out, and I catered on the weekend to make extra money,” said Webb, who always dreamed of opening her own restaurant.

Island Cho, which occupies a space where a breakfast nook had been, has a fan in First Selectman Michael Freda.

“This new restaurant features a wide variety of new and unique dining options on their menu,” Freda said. “North Haven residents who have had lunch or dinner there have given Island Cho outstanding reviews. Island Cho also does a fine take-out business.”

Island Cho is located at 448 Washington Ave. and is open Monday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to midnight; Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m. to midnight.

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