»WHAT'S ON YOUR PLATE? Dining out with Conkarah
taste of jamaica gourmet food
THE JAMAICAN RESTAURANT
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Publisher’s Note Our Menu Guide is not just about the appetizer, entrée and dessert. It’s about the pleasure of eating and enhancing your culinary experience – we seek out flavours to explore, places to go – and there’s something for every palate and price range.
W
e hope you are hungry, because now is the time, more than ever before, to experience the diversity of Jamaica’s culinary offerings. The local food scene is exciting: we are pushing the boundaries as we expand our repertoire of what good food is! Stretching from the coastline, deep into the interior and up through the mountains you will discover all types of restaurants, eateries, cook-shops, cafes and bars. There are food festivals, pop-up kitchens, chef tastings, and special foodie events happening every month; and you can now choose from a wide array of innovative local food and artisanal products to stock your kitchen and spice up your cooking!
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There’s all kinds of deliciousness wowing us - Try that ackee and saltfish samosa, jackfruit ice-cream, turn cornmeal churros, and crunchy scotch bonnet toffee. Follow the Blue Mountain culinary trail, and sample a serving of coffee-infused rice and peas; stop at the roadside for a steamy cup of peanut porridge; show up at one of the many food festivals and sip a chilled glass of yam wine or a tipple of cerassee liqueur; order that gourmet box lunch for a change, or taste a vegan meal of curried okra! Whether you are a local or visitor from afar, we encourage you to go out and sample the best Jamaica has to offer… Eat Happy…
Michele Gabay EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
WhereisWel l n esss a
Lifestyle 876-618-2014 or 876-618-2015 | 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica WI @edengardensja | @edeneventshub
Published, printed and distributed by MAPCO Printers Limited. Editor-in-Chief Michele Gabay Consulting Editor Lorraine Murray Graphics & Creative Pelican Publishers Ltd Photography Deeks Designs LAM Photography Ministry of Tourism Cover Photo Simon Levy Marketing & Advertising Michelle Belnavis Pelican Publishers Bruce Grayson Yee
MAPCO PRINTERS LIMITED, Publisher of the Restaurant & Menu Guide, can accept no liability for the views and/or opinions expressed within the publication. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, the Publisher accepts no responsibility for errors, omissions or claims made in any section of the publication. All material in the publication is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. No part of the publication can be reproduced or utilized in any form without written approval from the Publisher. MAPCO PRINTERS LIMITED 71-73 Montgomery Avenue, Kingston 10, Jamaica. www.mapcoprintersjamaica.com E: info@mapcoprinters.com T: 876-929-2623
Contents Vol. 12 | 2018
06 FOOD EVENTS Not-To-Be Missed Foodie Events Islandwide 10 WHAT’S ON YOUR PLATE? Dining Out With Recording Artiste, Conkarah 14 COFFEE CULTURE & CAFÉS Urban Coffee Hot Spots 20 GOOD BOOKS For Your Jamaican Kitchen 22 IN THE KITCHEN with MARIANNA FARAG The Green Revolution And Vegan Delights
RECIPES INSIDE! 28 RESTAURANT FEATURE Blue Ridge A Banquet Of A View 32 INTERVIEW WITH CHEF SIMON LEVY
RECIPE INSIDE! 36 GREAT TASTES OF JAMAICA Gourmet Food Products Made In Jamaica 42 CULINARY TOURS IN THE MOUNTAINS
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RESTAURANT LISTING 50 » Kingston 54 Feature Broken Plate 55 » St. Ann 56 » Montego Bay 57 Feature Sky Dweller
58 » Portland 59 » St. Elizabeth » St. Mary » Hanover 60 » Westmoreland 61 Feature Victoria Pier 63 » Clarendon » Manchester
Food Events IN JAMAICA FOOD IS EMBRACED AS MUCH AS MUSIC AND SUNSHINE! THERE ARE MANY FOOD EVENTS AND FESTIVALS HELD THROUGHOUT THE YEAR ACROSS THE ISLAND. HERE ARE SOME OF WHAT’S ON OFFER: that’s new on the local food scene as you work your way through over 60 tented booths laid out on the lawns of Devon House in Kingston. The highlycoveted food awards are presented to top restaurants, chefs and producers of food and drink products.
»KINGSTON KITCHENS is an all-time »
JAMAICA FOOD AND DRINK FESTIVAL bills itself as offering ‘Over
50 chefs, 7 yummy events, 7 iconic venues; all for 1 unforgettable experience. “We can’t wait!” Now in its 4th year, the Festival kicks off in Kingston in October with the everpopular Pork Palooza event, followed by Picante, D’Vine, Chopstix, Meet Street and the Market, Crisp, and ends with Brunch.
» RESTAURANT WEEK,
held in November, is an islandwide event. Over 80 restaurants participate, offering patrons dining experiences in varying price categories from ‘Epicurean’ to ‘Nyam and Scram.’
»THE TABLE TALK FOOD AWARD has
been dubbed the ‘Oscars of the food industry.’ Held in May, this stellar event celebrates excellence in Jamaican cuisine. You get to see and taste all
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favourite – a great food event for family and friends to get together. Held in July in Hope Gardens, it is a wonderful open-air night market under the stars where patrons get to sample authentic Jamaican food, watch cooking demos and buy artisanal food products from small batch vendors.
»JERK FESTIVALS are big and are held
islandwide throughout the year. The most popular is the legendary Portland Jerk Festival (now in its 14th year) which is held at the Folly Grounds in Portland. PAN2018 is a cook-off for pan-style chefs, with the finals held at the National Stadium in October.
»
The inaugural BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEE FESTIVAL was launched in August as part of the Blue Mountain Culinary Trail. It is staged on the parade grounds of the Jamaica Defence Force training camp in Newcastle, with an awesome backdrop of the mountains.
All the major coffee producers set up their tents and serve their signature brands, as well as hot and cold brews. There are barista demos and sampling of coffee-infused eats and drinks – including coffee-peanut butter, coffee honey, even coffee rice and peas! Patrons can also buy a variety of coffee-related products including scrubs and soaps as well as candles.
» There are several seafood events
held throughout the year – the most popular being the LITTLE OCHI SEAFOOD FESTIVAL in Manchester and the PORT ROYAL SEAFOOD FESTIVAL. While the date for Little Ochi changes, the Port Royal Festival is usually held in October on National Heroes Weekend. Seafood Festivals are also held at Woodleigh and at Milk River in Clarendon, as well as in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.
» AGRO FESTIVALS showcasing a range of produce, or even a single product, abound. We have long-
standing festivals celebrating the breadfruit, sugar-cane, sweet potato, pineapple…even ackee! But the big one is the YAM FESTIVAL in Trelawny. Held in April, patrons can sample yam in various dishes and drinks – from yam croquettes to yam wine!
» DENBIGH is Clarendon’s oldest
agricultural show. It is an annual event which coincides with the nation’s Independence weekend celebrations hosted by the Jamaica Agricultural Society. It features a farmer’s market with a variety of fresh produce. It’s a three day, fun-filled family event with lots of entertainment.
»Traditional food festivals celebrate
Jamaica’s ethnic diversity – these include FIWI SIN TING in Portland celebrating African food and culture; and there is also the CURRY FESTIVAL in Westmoreland in April, showcasing primarily Indian dishes.
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| FOOD EVENTS
»There are also street market food
fairs, such as THE REAL DEAL STREET MOVEMENT which hosts an event in Golden Spring in Kingston on the last weekend of the month.
»Several of the art and craft fairs
also offer great food samplings, such as MODA held in November; the LIGUANEA ART AND CRAFT FAIR usually held early summer, and the GRIZZLY PLANTATION COVE ART AND CRAFT FAIR held in Priory, St. Ann.
»And there are many special events
such as DINER EN BLANC in Kingston, EPICUREAN ESCAPE in St Ann, and
MOVEABLE FEAST and mini-market
at Arcadia great-house in Trelawny.
»EXPO JAMAICA, while not officially
billed as a food festival it usually includes vendors displaying several food products. The event is held at the National Arena in Kingston every two years. Other expos include the SWEET ART BAKE EXPO at the Pegasus Hotel.
»We even have a NATIONAL RUM
DAY, celebrated on August 16, with
a special happy hour event hosted by Appleton Estate Rums.
»...And we have several international
events that celebrate food and culture - the much-anticipated OKTOBERFEST is held on October 2, and is hosted by the Jamaica/German Society at the Alhambra Inn in Kingston.
f.y.i.
»LOBSTER SEASON April 1-June 23
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FRESH, FAST AND
DELICIOUS
DAILY CHEF SPECIALS JACQUI TYSON RESTAURANT On the Waterfront, Digicel Food Court, 14 Ocean Boulevard
OPEN 7AM - 6PM 876-622-5049
jacquityson876
what’s on
your plate? DINING OUT WITH RECORDING ARTISTE,
Conkarah
R
eggae artiste, Conkarah, is a YouTube sensation, with his music videos exceeding 200 million views. Best known for his reggae cover of Adele’s Hello sung with young Solomon Islander, Rosie Delmah, the video topped the iTunes reggae charts and global Spotify, and is an all-time favourite of music lovers worldwide. His most recent albums Don’t Kill My Love and Timeless Love reached the Top Ten Billboard reggae charts at #7 and #4 respectively. Conkarah’s musical journey has taken him around the world and he has performed throughout the Pacific Islands, Australia, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North and South America, the Caribbean, and even Greenland.
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»When in Jamaica what’s on
your culinary ‘must do’ list? I head for the country, coast or the mountains. If I’m going east to Portland (my favourite parish) I start out early making a stop at a popular roadside stall in Junction for a cup of peanut porridge – thick, hearty and piping hot, it sets the morning off right! If I’m going south coast, I always stop at Melrose Hill for the roast yam and a bump of saltfish.
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swift river, portland
Beverly cook-out on the farm, with head chef society Wilson of the united farmers benevolent
I
like to explore my island and go to places off-the-beatentrack. Recently a group of us went to Swift River in Portland a place called ‘Paradise’, and we arranged with farmers in the local community to prepare a cook out – they killed a goat and curried it, we also had mannish water, jerk chicken, rice and peas, callaloo, yam, green banana, the works –all from the farm. I also like to go to Holywell Park in the Blue Mountains where we set up the grill and barbecue. Several of my friends are foodies and chefs so I go to the food festivals and pop
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ripe plantain
up culinary events, and try all the new creative dishes. I love Kingston Kitchens held at Hope Gardens.
»Best box Lunch?
Lorna’s on Mountain View – tasty, wholesome Jamaican food and the portions are large.
»Pan Jerk?
Most would say Boston in Portland, but I found a great jerk spot just outside Sav-La-Mar, they use a particular pimento wood on the coals, it gives it a different taste.
| WHAT’S ON YOUR PLATE?
»Seafood?
In Kingston – Gloria’s on Foreshore Road in Port Royal – steam snapper with a side of okra and steamed bammy. Out of town, Little Ochi in Manchester. You choose your fish and eat in fishing boats on stilts, right on the beach!
little ochie
»Vegetarian?
New Leaf in Liguanea – great menu choices.
»Drink?
Coconut water every time…best from the roadside or by the gallon from Coconut Board outlet on Waterloo Road - I also get my coconut oil there, it’s the best, 100% pure!
»Your perfect dining out
on a Sunday?
Dim sum breakfast with friends at Tropical Plaza in Halfway Tree; lunch with family at Crystal Edge in Irish Town - it’s home-style cooking, great atmosphere, followed by coffee and dessert at Café Blue right next door; date night, maybe a relaxed dinner at Sea Deck in Orchid Village – fried wings to start, followed by grilled lobster. After dark, up to Dub Club in Jack’s Hill, munch on fried saltfish fritters washed down with fresh fruit juices - with reggae music and a breathtaking view of the city of Kingston at night – the perfect end to my Sunday!
coconuts on the road to st. thomas
» When
going on tour overseas what Jamaican food items are in your suitcase? Bottles of Walkers Wood and Belcour jerk seasoning; pimento seeds; Scotch bonnet pepper… and Appleton rum.
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CULTURE
COFFEE & Cafés
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THE EARLIEST REFERENCE TO A COFFEE HOUSE IN JAMAICA COMES FROM KINGSTON IN THE , EARLY 1730 S, AND LIKELY SERVED IMPORTED, NOT LOCALLY GROWN COFFEE. IT IS SAID THAT JAMAICA DOES NOT HAVE A COFFEE DRINKING TRADITION AS WE PREFER TEAS, PARTICULARLY HERBAL AND MEDICINAL BREWS.
B
ut the old-time tradition of brewing coffee is still practiced by country folk who grind and draw their pure coffee in muslin bags, usually with a pinch of salt or a tipple of rum. While coffee culture is not yet mainstream in Jamaica it is growing in popularity. Today we are seeing an evolving coffee culture with a number of urban coffee hotspots opening up throughout the corporate area, both uptown and downtown. And some are popping up in unusual places… we have small cafes in art galleries, bookshops and museums; and even in car dealerships and home décor outlets. Some are located in the city centre, others on the outskirts; and there are a few high in the mountains while others sit on the water’s edge downtown. Some cafes are large international franchises, others are home-grown; and some have only one outlet while others have branches islandwide. The décor also varies - some are spacious, modern and sleek, while others are small and intimate. The ambience can be low-key and quiet, or crowded and busy. Almost all have a laptop vibe and offer free Wi-Fi. All staff are trained baristas in the art of coffee-making and the menus are extensive. You can sit and savour your coffee or get it on the go. There are so many variations of cold and hot specialty gourmet brews and they come in a variety of flavours. You can get it simple or fancy, and most offer the full gamut from expresso shots
| CULTURE COFFEE & CAFES and French-pressed to every kind of ‘cino, from frappuccino to mochaccino!
CAFÉ CULTURE APPEALS TO THE LIFESTYLE OF YOUNG MILLENNIALS AS WELL AS WORKING PROFESSIONALS. IT’S CONSIDERED THE ‘THIRD PLACE PHILOSOPHY’ - THERE’S HOME, THERE’S WORK, AND THERE’S THE PLACE THAT BECOMES FAMILIAR, YOUR HANGOUT, YOUR ‘GO TO’ PLACE TO RELAX AND CHILL. All the cafes offer an extended menu of breakfast, brunch and lunch snacks as well as light meals after hours. Typical menus offer savoury and sweet food including paninis, sandwiches, wraps, bagels, gourmet breads, soups, vegetarian and vegan dishes, salads, as well as pastries, muffins, cakes, and puddings.
THE NEWCOMERS:
»TOYOTA CAFÉ« The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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Located upstairs in the new Toyota showroom on Old Hope Road, it is surprisingly spacious and peaceful. While you sit and enjoy your coffee you have a panoramic view of the mountains, or you can look at your dream car in the showroom immediately below. The venue occasionally hosts intimate art and cultural events.
»CAFÉ DOLCE«
The newest addition to the cafes in Kingston, it’s a smart new hot spot, ideally located between two home décor outlets on Constant Spring Road. Fast becoming a favourite with Kingstonians it offers two levels, with a cozy lounge on the mezzanine level. The menu is varied and different, and they serve Café Dolce signature blends. They have also opened another branch at the KIG showroom on Spanish Town Road.
»PRESS CAFE«
Here you can, ‘print relax, eat and sip’ in this novel new café located on the upper level of Ardenne Emirates, the recently constructed business complex on Ardenne Road. A full-service print and graphic design facility, you can sit and enjoy your coffee and snacks while you wait.
»ISLAND COFFEES «
There are two cafes in Kingston, one at the new Victoria Pier on the waterfront downtown, and the other at Devon House. Serving ‘bean to cup’ they create superb capps’ and lattes. There is also another outlet at Island Village in Ocho Rios.
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»SUSIE’S CAFÉ«
It started as a small coffee shop serving baked goods, and the brand soon developed a loyal following of regular customers. It now offers a full menu, and has become a popular entertainment venue in the evenings.
»STARBUCKS«
It was only a matter of time before coffee giant, Starbucks, set up shop in Kingston. The impressive new building opened in June in Liguanea Plaza, and already it’s become a favourite among coffee lovers.
The interior at Starbucks is fabulous with a huge mural of a lion by talented artist, Fiona Godfrey. They serve the usual Starbucks fare, introducing a variety of new products with a Jamaican twist. There is also another outlet in Montego Bay at the Sangster International Airport, and at the Falmouth pier.
HOTEL CAFES
»CANNONBALL«
With locations at Sovereign North, Loshusan Shopping Centre, New Kingston and Manor Park, it has become a trendy meeting spot.
»WHOLESOME CAFÉ«
Located in the Digicel food court downtown, you can get morning coffee to go, or have it right there in the spacious food court overlooking the harbour.
»PEGASUS HOTEL 24/7 CAFÉ«
Located in the main lobby at the Pegasus Hotel it is a popular choice in the New Kingston business district and is a constant hub of activity. Open 24-hours a day, it offers a full menu. The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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»SPANISH COURT« Tucked away in a quiet nook off the main lobby, don’t be surprised if the time flies by without you knowing! This small in-house café has a varied and enticing menu.
MOUNTAIN CAFES As you work your way up to the Blue Mountains via Irish Town and Newcastle, there are a few cafes en route. First stop CAFE BLOOM, a rustic new thatch and bamboo spot that hugs the roadside at a narrow bend, it is gradually expanding down the mountainside. It has the best view and the best freshly-brewed Blue Mountain offers coffee, light snack and vegan coffee from the Clifton Mount Estate meals. on the newly built wooden deck (which adjoins the Crystal Edge Restaurant). The tiny Café serves delicious snacks, pastries and cakes and there is a gift/souvenir display of Café Blue products as well as condiments, crafts and aromatherapy products.
Further up on a wide curve is the all-time favourite CAFE BLUE. The first company to create an authentic Caribbean lifestyle embracing coffee culture, there are several locations islandwide (Sovereign in Liguanea, and another on its way, as well as in Montego Bay and at both international airports). It is one of the most pleasant places to stop. Here you can enjoy
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Further up at the 17-mile post is EITS CAFÉ. It’s a small restaurant that operates an organic farm and hostel. Here you can enjoy your brew on the multi-leveled terrace, or the wooden deck overlooking the river valley.
| CULTURE COFFEE & CAFES At the end of the trail, after Holywell Park is THE GAP CAFÉ . Here you can sit on the terrace and take in the breath-taking view while enjoying your coffee.
OTHER CAFES IN KINGSTON: • Brew’d Awakening • Pastry Passion • Rituals • Café Phoenix • Shelly’s Café at UTECH • Eleni’s French Bakery
Art Galleries, Museums & Bookshops
The DEAF CAN Baristas The Deaf Can Baristas is a social enterprise that shows deaf people can do anything. You will see these trained baristas, who are hearing-impaired, working in cafes at special food and coffee events. The business operates from Cassia Park, where there is a small café, open by appointment.
How about coffee and art? You can get a great cup at the NATIONAL GALLERY, downtown after browsing the exhibitions, or at the small café at GROSVENOR GALLERY in Manor Park; If you like to take your brew with a little reggae then head to the ONE LOVE CAFÉ at the Bob Marley Museum on Hope Road; or if you prefer it quiet then sit back with a good read at BOOKAPHILIA on Hope Road where they serve brewed coffee throughout the day. F&B DOWNTOWN on Harbour Street is a unique restaurant and café within the Swiss Store jewelry store. You can window shop, buy a watch or a piece of jewelry and enjoy your brew. They also showcase the stunning photography of Craig Phang Sang, and prints are available for sale.
STONELEIGH
good books
THERE IS A WIDE SELECTION OF BOOKS ON JAMAICAN FOOD AND COOKING. THERE ARE ALSO BOOKS FOR THE HEALTH CONSCIOUS. HERE ARE OUR EDITOR’S PICK:
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JAMAICAN FOOD by B.W. Higman is a great read, filled with everything you ever wanted to know about Jamaican food.
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2
All-time favourite is BELCOUR by Robin Lim Lumsden, filled with wonderful recipes and engaging stories of family life and growing up in Jamaica.
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2
CARIBBEAN POTLUCK, by the Rousseau sisters, Suzanne and Michelle, features modern recipes from the family kitchen.
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JAMAICA BLUE MOUNTAIN COFFEE by Norma Bengiat is the definitive guide to the history of the island’s world famous coffee.
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CARIBBEAN CALORIE COUNTER AND CONSCIOUS EATING GUIDE by Patricia Thompson provides the caloric value of a wide range of everyday foods.
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E XOT I C T E A S O F T H E CARIBBEAN AND THE REST OF THE WORLD co-authored by husband and wife duo of renowned scientist Dr. Henry Lowe and Janet Lowe. It is a guide to the healthiest and best teas.
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| IN THE KITCHEN WITH MARIANNA FARAG
nana’s Kitchen
m
arianna, aka “Nana” is the passionate, foodloving author behind t h e b l o g “ Na n a’s Kitchen”. Her mission has been to put out as many fun, flavourful, nutritious, easy-to-make recipes straight out of her small kitchen in Jamaica! Marianna is here to challenge the idea of vegan being “boring” and “expensive” - because in fact, it’s not! Largely self-taught (thanks to an awesome food-loving family and especially a most amazing mother), and with a short stint in the prestigious Michelin-star kitchens of the Hotel de Crillon in Paris; Nana’s recipes and methodology often seem to combine the warmth of home cuisine with the discipline and curiosity of high-end kitchens.
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Her recipes have been featured in several international magazines including: Elle (France), Saveur and The Huffington Post (United States), Foodies of the World (Australia) and Serious Eats. Local media platforms such as TVJ, The Jamaica Observer and The Gleaner have featured her as well. Connect with Nana on Instagram @missmariannaf or head over to the blog by typing in nana.kitchen into your browser.
WILL THE FUTURE BE
plant based in jamaica?
I am no authority on the subject, but I sure am fascinated by this green revolution happening around the world - and how it is (or is not) developing, right here in Jamaica. While most developed markets are waking up to the hazards of junk food, it seems that we’re allowing them to penetrate our beautiful green island that strangely enough, is home to many of the “super foods” the world seems to crave. We’re talking about ingredients such as moringa, soursop, callaloo, cassava, cerasse, turmeric, ginger, coconut (in all forms) to state a few! Do these ingredients sound familiar? They certainly should!
of resistance happening and largely driven by Millennials. It is also difficult to not mention the years-old Rastafarian dialogue about natural foods, that has already planted a seed in the food landscape. Additionally, with the internet & smartphones being a part of our lives, it’s even easier to understand, and perhaps, feel inspired by a plant-based diet. And whether you consider opting for a vegan lifestyle or not (vegan - no products that come from an animal, including all dairy and eggs!), I’d say it’s never a bad idea to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet!
Fortunately, with the invasion of hyper-processed convenience food, there’s a conscious wave The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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| IN THE KITCHEN WITH MARIANNA FARAG There is nothing to lose by incorporating more plants on your plate - which is why I love the word “plant-based” so much, because it doesn’t limit one to being strictly vegan - let alone, the “unhealthy” type of vegan (which is a story for another day!). You just need to eat more foods that grow from the earth, foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, fibre, protein, iron… Nutrients that will energize you, help you reduce
your cholesterol, improve your skin condition, mood, mental clarity- and so much more! With that said, here are two vegan plant-based recipes that I’ve developed and that you may want to try out! And if you ever feel like getting out of your kitchen, there’s an extensive guide of Vegan Eateries on the blog, shared on here as well. Happy cooking!
recipes The process:
MORINGA-ACKEE You’ll need: • • • • • • • • • •
2 cups of moringa leaves - washed 1 dozen ackee, prepared & boiled 1 onion, chopped 4 garlic cloves, finely sliced 2 plummy tomatoes, chopped 1 small green bell pepper, chopped Thyme Salt & black pepper Scotch bonnet (optional) Coconut oil
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In a large pan, drizzle some coconut oil- and add the onions & garlic. Cook until translucent.
2
At that time, add thyme and cook for a little more. This helps release the oils of the thyme and intensifies the flavour.
3
Then add the scotch bonnet, tomatoes & green bell peppers - cook until soft.
4
Add the moringa leaves- they will cook very quickly, in about two minutes!
Finally, add the ackee. Season with salt & pepper. Mix everything well and cook for another short five minutes. Enjoy! Feel free to add other aromatics like ginger or turmeric in here too!
5
CURRIED OKRA & CHICKPEAS The process: You’ll need • • • • • • • • • •
(for 2-3 servings)
2 dozen okra, washed and chopped 4-5 plummy tomatoes, diced 1 onion, chopped 1-2 cups chickpeas, cooked 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped 1 teaspoon curry spices 1 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro - chopped Coconut oil 1/2 scotch bonnet - finely chopped (optional) • Salt
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2
3 4
First thing is to cook the okra. Drizzle some oil in a large pan, toss in the chopped okra and cook in mediumhigh heat for about six minutes. Add a few drops of water if the okra is sticking to the pan. Remove okra from pan and set the okra aside. We’re now going to cook everything else in the same pan, drizzle a bit of oil and cook the onions until translucent. Then add the curry spices, scotch bonnet and garlic and cook for another minute. Add the diced tomatoes and cook until soft. Add the chickpeas, cooked okra, cilantro, garam masala, sprinkle of salt. Mix and cook everything together for another five minutes or so. You can add a little water if you want a bit of a ‘gravyish’ feel to the recipe.
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SORREL COOKEEZ
on!) eet treat — in moderati (for the occasional sw Remove from pot and chop the sorrel up. Set aside in a container for the next day. 3 The day of: in a bowl, mix the flour, icing sugar, baking powder, ginger, (for about 18-20 cookies): pinch of salt. • 300 gr flour (2 cups) 4 Then cut up the chilled coconut oil • 150 gr icing sugar** (1 cup) and rub it into the flour. You’re going • 150 gr coconut oil + more if to need to work with your hands necessary (1 cup) here. Rub the coconut oil until you • 1 tablespoon ground ginger achieve a cookie dough consistency! • A few tablespoons of coconut milkIf you’re not getting there- please keep on the side add some coconut milk until you get cookie dough! • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • Pinch of salt 5 Now gently add the chopped up • A good handful of sorrel candied sorrel- be generous! You’ll need a lot of sorrel to get the flavour. + granulated sugar Mix it into the cookie dough. Form the cookie dough into a ball and place in the fridge for thirty mins. The night before: weigh the coconut 5 During that time, preheat your oven oil and place it in the fridge. You want to 350F/180C and line a baking tray it to solidify. with parchment paper. The night before: candy the sorrel. 6 Remove dough from fridge- roll out Meaning: place the sorrel in a pot with dough and cut into your preferred a little bit of water, cover pot with lid shape. and cook them until soft. Then add a Place cookies on tray and bake for handful of granulated sugar and cook 7 fifteen minutes. And a little longer a little further, until they are “candied” if you like crispy crunchy cookeez. and sticky.
You’ll need
The process: 1 2
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vegan
JAMAICA DIRECTORY
Vegan Jamaica Directory, compiled by Nana’s Kitchen and some fabulous Instagram friends, is a work in progress providing a centralized link for eateries and all sorts of spaces/ individuals who champion vegan and vegetarian food. Some are physical places, others are delivery and catering. Visit the websites and Instagram pages for more information.
KINGSTON NEW LEAF Lane Plaza,
Liguanea ZOLEAH CAFÉ
Shop#7, 2 Seymour Avenue KUSHITE Eden Gardens,
Lady Musgrave Road MI HUNGRY WHOL’ SOME FOOD Marketplace,
Constant Spring THE CHEFFING DON
11 Maeven Avenue, off Hope Road LIFE YARD 44 Fleet Street,
Downtown DR. SPICE 46 Gordon Town
Road, Papine LEAF OF LIFE LIVING CUISINE Kingston Lane,
NATURAL CHOICES
57a Molynes Road (Health food store sells wraps, salads and juices) ASHANTI
12 Braemar Avenue BLOOM CAFÉ
Irish Town SHANTY MAN
Gordon Town Road
ST. ANN OCHO RIOS MI HUNGRY WHOL’SOME FOODS Cool Oasis,
Main Street CALABASH Shop #8,
7 James Avenue REGGAE POT RESTAURANT
86 Main Street
NATURE MY THERAPY
RUNAWAY BAY
Juice blends/detox sets
LUV IN YAH
SHERECE COWAN
10 Main Street
Sipping live - locations and dates
ALL ABOUT FOOD
UJIMA NATURAL FARMERS MARKET
STUSH IN THE BUSH
Beside Orchid Village (Food for sale and artisan products)
104 Cardiff Boulevard Bamboo | Reservations only
NEGRIL RASTA ADE Norman Manley
Barbican
DELIVERY/ORDERS VEGGIE CAMPUS VEGGIES MEALS ON WHEELS EATOPIA PLANT FOOD BY ADDY
NATURAL TOUCH Orchid
VEGAN CATERING HUNGRY EYES
RAS RODY ROADSIDE ORGANIC One Love Drive
ISHELL IGHTS
JUST NATURAL Hylton Avenue
557 Innswood Village
WRIGHTLIFE LIVE FOOD
Downtown TEHUTI CAFÉ 3 Lyncourt,
Village, Liguanea FROM THE STALK Holborn
Road, New Kingston IBO SPICE Orange Street,
Downtown KING DAVID ITAL RESTAURANT
Constant Spring Arcade, Halfway Tree COUNTRY FARM HOUSE SOY PRODUCTS
ST. CATHERINE MI HUNGERY WHOL’SOME FOODS
Superior Plaza
MANDEVILLE FANCY FRUITS
3 Deanery Road
33 Ward Avenue
EARL JUICE GARDEN
Haining Road, New Kingston
PORTLAND
SURPRISINGLY SWEET
SURVIVAL BEACH
Vegan desserts only
24 Allan Avenue, Port Antonio
PIZZA PLEASE
SOO SOOM BA
Village Plaza, Halfway Tree
Hope Bay, Main Street
Boulevard I-N-I RASTAURANT
West End Road
Fairview Town Centre
MONTEGO BAY DELIVERY/ORDERS COOKIE FAIRY 876
Vegan desserts and treat
ST. ELIZABETH ITAL VITAL
Fisherman’s Lane, Treasure Beach
| RESTAURANT FEATURE
blue
ridge
A Banquet of a View
l
ifelong best friends Sarah Willis and Tabetha Phillips started Blue Ridge a few years ago when their plans to return home to Jamaica overlapped, and they decided to do something together. A restaurant seemed like the perfect venture combining both their skills– Tabetha has extensive experience in management and the food industry and Sarah is a trained chef.
»The dining experience
The duo figure that if they lure you up on the bad road they should make it special and worth your while, so they offer the complete package – good food, spectacular views, great ambience and attentive service. The menu is varied and enticing, plated and presented in a unique and novel way. First thing you notice is the tableware, whether it’s the tortilla
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chef sarah tomato soup in brightly-coloured ramekins, creamy sauces in unusualshaped dipping bowls, or the mini polka dot tins filled with French fries. Presentation to your table is usually themed and entertaining - it could be a hand-painted wooden chipmunk or a bejeweled Buddha, and they may even place a toy fire engine with sirens blaring to announce the arrival of a particular dessert! It’s always unexpected and playful, making it a fun dining experience that thrills both adults and children.
»The menu
It changes often to keep it interesting for customers, many of whom are regulars. They also have a great kiddie’s menu, and offer options for vegetarians, vegans and persons with special dietary needs.
»What to try
For the appetizer definitely go for the popcorn chicken, nibble-sized nuggets of chicken breast dipped in a lightly seasoned batter and deep fried, served on a bed of popcorn; or go for the plantain wrapped in bacon with a creamy cilantro sauce. For the entrée, the guava glazed pork is mouthwateringly delicious, served with garlic mashed green banana or homemade mac-and-cheese. Or try the land and sea special - chicken breast stuffed with seasoned crab, topped with grilled shrimp and a creamy garlic sauce. If you are vegan, then try the burrito bowl, filled with fire roasted corn, rice, black bean salsa, pico de gallo, and plantain all in a rich Sriracha sauce… Just make sure you leave room for one of the tantalizing desserts! The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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| RESTAURANT FEATURE The Blue Ridge beverage menu offers a range of signature drinks - try the mango lemonade, or maybe the Moscata-infused berry slushy.
»The Blue Ridge brand
They brand their own coffee, and produce artisanal gourmet dips and sauces.
Dining with a view
»Accommodation Signature drink
»All things Blue
Obsessed with all things blue, the name is a poetic take on the blue sky and the mountains. They also have signature blue drinks – there’s the ever-popular Blue Hot Chocolate, as well as the Rocky Blue Mojito or Blue Mimosa.
»The location
Nestled on top of a hill in the Salt Hill district of east rural St. Andrew, it’s primarily a farming community, with small homesteads dotted along the steep hillsides and in the valleys. Several Kingstonians also have weekend homes in the area. Blue Ridge is a working farm of five acres where they grow coffee as well as vegetables and fruits including pineapples, peaches, bananas and otaheite apples.
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Very often, diners who visited the restaurant wanted to stay over rather than take the long drive back to town, so cottages seemed like a good idea. Currently there are two, Butterfly and Peacock. A steep, narrow stone stairway leads to each unit, tucked away in the lush vegetation. Completely private, guests can relax and unwind and enjoy nature at its best - even the intermittent Wi-Fi is a signal to slow down. Breakfast is included and lunch and dinner can be pre-ordered from restaurant menu.
»Getting there
For first timers, it seems like an endlessly long winding road through the hills and just when you think you are probably lost, the Blue Ridge sign pops up on the side of the road. From there, it’s a short drive up to the restaurant. It takes about 3040 minutes from Papine through Gordon Town to Guava Ridge on up to Quashie Gap.
` h t i w w e i v r Inte
chef
SIMON
LEVY
ART OF SIMON LEVY HAS MADE A NAME FOR HIMSELF AS THE MASTER OF THE SKILL OF CHARCUTERIE. ONE OF THE HOTTEST FOOD TRENDS, IT IS THE ARTISANALTHE OLDEST CURING, SALTING, SMOKING AND PRESERVING MEAT. CONSIDERED TO BECA, IT WAS FORM OF MEAT PREPARATION FOR MANY CULTURES, INCLUDING JAMAI INTO REALLY THE FRENCH, SPANISH AND ITALIANS WHO BROUGHT IT THE REALM OF HAUTE CUISINE.
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TELL US HOW AND WHEN YOUR FASCINATION WITH CHARCUTERIE BEGAN?
I
’ve always had a passion about food, from high school days – mostly grilling over an open fire. Then when I came back to Jamaica after University I reconnected with an old school friend, Darshan Young. We would cook-up after work on a Friday, experimenting with different food and inviting friends over to sample the various dishes. From there we began catering for private dinner parties and events, from smaller sized BBQ’s right up to larger events such as the Shaggy and Friends concert. We participated in the food festivals and entered several of the chef cook-off competitions. We eventually sold the Bad Dawg brand to CB Foods and launched the brand Roast! Then in 2009 we started doing Christmas hams - we would get fresh pork from Copperwood, salt cure it ourselves to then smoke to offer a ready-to-eat product. In those days, the only ham available was from Grace which people would bake the old-fashioned way, glazed with pineapple rings and cherries. We did a delicious crunchy glaze with brown sugar, cinnamon and black pepper. That first year we did a dozen hams which has now grown to about 150! In 2012 I took an extended trip to Italy and when I came back I started playing around with prosciutto-style meats and decided to dig deeper into the art of curing.
»What do you produce?
Artisanal hams, slow-smoked BBQ and assorted prosciutto style smoked and cured meats, which you can’t get here in Jamaica. I also produce other meat products on a small scale, such as pates and salamis.
»Charcuterie is described as ‘simple
food done well,’ but it seems very scientific and technical, what’s your process? The process is very technical, it is definitely a science. Technique is very important. You have to know your cuts. You have to measure out all your salt and spices and curing times. It’s all crucial to the success of the final product. I have a fully equipped kitchen with the tools needed to produce the items – curing chambers, deep freezers, grinders, sausage stuffers, and custombuilt smokers.
»They say a dish is only as good as
the quality of the meat you use, where do you source your meat? 90% of what I use is pork, and I get most of my meat from CB Foods / Copperwood Farms, otherwise I get directly from pig farmers around the island.
» What about local spices and
seasonings, what ingredients do you use? I use as many local products as possible such as pimento, bay leaves and whatever I can get locally in my production because I believe in supporting local farms and businesses. Unfortunately I can’t get everything I need locally at which point I have to import.
»Entertaining friends, what would your charcuterie board include?
It’s all about combining a variety of textures and flavour profiles - salty, fatty, acidic and sweet. For the meats – cold cuts of sliced prosciutto, pancetta and salami; to contrast these firm/salty The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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| INTERVIEW WITH CHEF SIMON LEVY private and corporate functions due to the lower overhead and operational costs, whether it’s an intimate dinner party or catering for over a hundred. What’s good about it is that you get immediate feedback, you quickly get to know what works and what doesn’t.
»You are participating in the Jamaica
Food and Drink Festival this year, What can we expect?
textures, I would have a soft, creamy liver pate; to add sweetness, maybe some guava jam, fig preserve or pepper jelly. Perhaps a few cheeses of different textures, maybe a non-dairy goat cheese; mustard spread or a dip; fresh fruits like grapes or apples; nuts roasted or raw; pickled vegetables and olives; breads, crackers, sliced baguettes. And of course, wine and beer.
I am running the sponsored CB Foods booth at the Launch event. For Pork Palooza I will also be managing the CB Foods sponsored booth there roasting whole hogs alongside a few porchettas, which is basically half a hog rolled up and tied then roasted on a spit… I am also involved in the Crisp event this year doing a Tapas board with assorted toppings.
»Describe your perfect dinner?
A chef is never well-fed in the same way a gardener’s garden is never well kept. But for me I don’t go for an array of courses, I prefer a quick and easy one plate, even one pot meal. Pasta or lamb chops. Simple things.
»What are your thoughts on how our local food culture evolving?
Our local food scene is booming. There is so much influence out there now with social media and the many food-based shows on television. Anyone with the interest can experiment and develop their cooking skills via avenues as simple as YouTube. We are seeing a lot more local chefs starting out, most don’t go the restaurant route but do catering for
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SIMON’s
rCeRcAYipFISeH for
»PCerpapyefrisehd 1
• 2 lbs crayfish In a food processor blend; 2 TBS EVOO 1/2 onion 1 scotch bonnet pepper 2 cloves garlic 2 sprigs thyme Salt and pepper to taste
2
Com bine with cray fish and marinate 2 hours in the fridge. Heat up a Dutch pot and sauté til cooked through (10 - 12 mins) and finish with 1.5 tsp butter.
3
Serve immediately.
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great
tastes of Jamaica F
rom the early days of tourism, visitors were encouraged to sample Jamaican ‘delicacies.’ In 1880, offerings included turtle soup in canisters and tablets, tamarinds in kegs, black crab paste, guava jelly, mountain cabbage pickles, honey, crystallized fruits, Scotch Bonnet peppers, cassava cakes as well as a range of exotic fruits in syrup. Added to that list was Blue Mountain coffee, Reserve Rum and a box of sweet Jamaican oranges! Today, with the growing interest in global cuisine and the explosion in gourmet food products Jamaica now offers a wide variety of products for
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local consumers, as well as the ethnic and gourmet market overseas. Agroprocessors and small-batch artisanal producers are using traditional ingredients and methods, while keeping pace with modern cooking t re n d s a n d t e c h n i c a l advances in preserving and packaging food. Sweet, savoury or spicy, the list of products is endless: jams, jellies, marmalades, honey and preserves; chutneys, vinaigrettes and sauces; relishes and pickles; salad dressings and dips; marinades, dry and wet rubs; purees, flavours and essences; fruit wines, liqueurs and roots drinks; spreads and syrups; and confectionary.
»JERK
Centuries ago if you wanted to eat jerk pork, you’d have to first catch a wild hog (fat and healthy fed on roots, berries and the purest water) then you would singe the hairs off its back, smother the carcass in spices and herbs, wrap it in plantain leaves, lay it over coals of sweet wood in a pit dug out in the earth and let it roast and smoke slowly, watching it throughout the night. The result was a gamey and toothsome delicacy that any hungry man could desire… today, thanks to agro-processing and a few technological advances the unique taste of Jamaican jerk can be had in a few hours right in the urban kitchen! A wide variety of jerk powdered seasonings, rubs, dry and wet marinades, mash and sauces are now produced locally, capturing the aromatic flavours of this traditional dish. We use it to season poultry, pork, lamb, fish and other seafood as well as vegetables, fruits, pastas and tofu. Originally supplying the ethnic market overseas, jerk was one of the products that moved quickly into the international mainstream and gourmet food market as more consumers wanted to experience what has become the authentic ‘Taste of Jamaica’. Now there are over a hundred variations of jerk products on the market.
Belcour Preserves
products include Blue Mountain honey; guava preserve and five fruit marmalade; pepper jelly; tomato and sorrel chutneys; honey mustard and honey jerk pepper sauces.
Walkerswood produce a variety of products at their facility located in the hills of St. Ann. Well-known for their jerk products, they also produce cooking sauces; curry paste; sorrel; mango and papaya chutneys; spicy Solomon Gundy; hot mustard; guava jelly and orange marmalade. Pickapeppa started out as a
family business in 1920s and is one of the first condiments to be mass-produced and bottled locally. This unique sauce is a blended mix of mango, tamarind, brown sugar, cane vinegar, raisins, spices and a secret ingredient, all aged in oak barrels. It can be used to marinade meats, added to barbeque sauce, and served as a tangy dip for samosas, tempuras and fish dishes. The Company also produces a hot spicy mango sauce. Mixologists have even created a Creole Bloody Mary cocktail using Pickapeppa.
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GREAT TASTES OF JAMAICA
Busha Browne
Zedalini’s Spicy Tamarind Sauce
One of the first regional agroprocessors to export jerk seasoning, Busha Browne was branded as an indigenous Jamaican product. Products include savoury and jerk sauces, chutneys and pepper jelly.
Peppatree
Stush in the Bush produce a
delicious array of gourmet sauces, condiments, butters and preserves, using organic produce from their farm in Bamboo, St. Ann. Products include Blow Fyah pepper sauce, Chimichurru, passionfruit vinaigrette and butter, banana preserve, vegan chocolate coconut sauce, beet hummus, as well as breads, cookies and granola.
Local Spice
Marley Sauces
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produce spice sachets of wet rubs to season meat and poultry.
ÂťHONEYS
GREAT TASTES OF JAMAICA
Our Island honey comes in different flavours. One to try is cashew blossom from Hussey Orchards.
Several companies produce a variety of herbal and wellness teas including ingredients such as guinea hen, bizzy, soursop, cerassee, lemon grass and moringa.
CafĂŠ Blue produce confectionary including brittle crunch in a variety of flavours, as well as delicious chocolatecovered coffee beans. The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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Get There
Safely with MotorGuard
and make Guardian General your Insurance Partner! Purchasing a car may be one of the biggest decisions you will make in life. Some of the major factors you may consider before you make the purchase include, the model, the make, the size of the engine and especially the fuel efficiency. After you’ve selected the car best suited for you, the next most important decision you will have to make is choosing your insurance provider. It’s not just about discounts and rewards programme but choosing a partner that understands your needs and will give you the right coverage and suitable benefits.
for Third Party policies. There are so many benefits to enjoy with Guardian General’s MotorGuard product which you can tailor-make to best suit your needs.
Guardian General will give you maximum protection that will suit these needs. We carry a suite of products that can be tailor-made with you in mind.
At Guardian General, we encourage you that while you shop around or renew your motor insurance to ask your Broker about MotorGuard. As the first general insurance provider for Restaurant Week, we will be bringing a ‘new flavour’ to the much-anticipated calendar event for diners. As you share in the rich and exciting dining experience, save your receipts and look out for the Guardian General team.
In cases of accidents, theft or loss, we offer a protected No Claim Discount, new car, key and windscreen replacement with our MotorGuard product. We also ensure that we are right by your side with Motor Assist, should you have a breakdown or accident whether comprehensively or third party insured. You can also enjoy the optional benefits of uninsured motorist rider, as well as a replacement hire vehicle and even windscreen cover
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Our customer service agents pride themselves in spending the time, understanding and taking care to guide and review with clients the process of choosing the right policy and ensuring that clients are rightly compensated should there be an accident, injury, theft or any other loss which is covered under the policy.
See you during Restaurant Week; the MotorGuard Team will be popping up with some exciting prizes and giveaways. As you journey, remember to wear your seat belts, - and ‘Get There Safely!’
culinary
tours
in the Mountains
SOME MAY SAY CULINARY TOURS ARE A NEW PHENOMENON IN JAMAICA, BUT WE’VE ACTUALLY BEEN DOING THEM FOR A LONG, LONG TIME! THE TAINO, THE VERY FIRST JAMAICANS, TOOK CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS ON A CULINARY JOURNEY BACK IN 1494, INTRODUCING HIM AND HIS SHIPWRECKED CREW TO CULINARY DELIGHTS OF POSSIBLY BARBECUED CROCODILE, CASSAVA CAKES AND MAYBE EVEN FEASTING ON A RARE DELICACY, THE MANATEE.
F
ast forward 500 years, and we are still delighting visitors with an array of culinary offerings including food festivals, farm and market tours, cooking classes and specialty dining events.
cherry tomatoes
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Coffee tour at Craighton
FOR MANY VISITORS TASTING AUTHENTIC CUISINE IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF THEIR TRIP; AND FOR MANY LOCALS LEARNING ABOUT OUR FOOD HERITAGE AND CULINARY TRADITIONS IS A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE. The Blue Mountain Culinary tours offer a variety of itineraries which include visits to rural farming communities, high mountain coffee estates, organic farms and hillside gardens. Local foodies also welcome visitors into their homes and kitchens where they host special events such as farm-totable meals, picnics and cooking demos and classes. As part of the experience visitors enjoy local fare at the many eateries, cook shops, restaurants and cafes and also get to visit nature attractions and sites of architectural and historic interest.
Designated a World Heritage Site, The Blue and John Crow Mountain Range is a place of exceptional natural beauty where steep winding narrow roads, hiking paths and corkscrew trails take you through some of the most beautiful, pristine rain forests and woodlands, leading to mountain springs and waterfalls, right up to the peak, which rises majestically to 7,400ft. Vegetation in the region is diverse. Here you will find tropical as well as temperate trees, plants, vegetables and fruits. Some are indigenous, while others were imported from countries around the world by the early European and English settlers. Strawberries, peaches, blackberries bilberry and cheese berry (an edible fruit introduced from India), as well as European garden herbs, culinary vegetables and spices all thrive in the mountains. Here are some of the culinary and heritage experiences:
Coffee Estate Tours
Foodie event at EITS
There are several coffee estates in the mountains that offer tours. Most should be booked in advance. Some charge a fee, others are free. Visitors will sample freshly roasted coffee, and have the opportunity to purchase bags of coffee beans. The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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CULINARY TOURS IN THE MOUNTAINS Beyond the Jamaica Defence Force camp at Newcastle, a steep, narrow, winding unpaved road that leads to Catherine’s Peak continues around a precipitous edge, taking you to Clifton Mount. The view at 4,300ft. is amazing, here the mountains appear more rugged and the valley deeper.
Craighton One of the best coffee estate tours, it begins with an informative and engaging coffee chat on the veranda of the old estate house. The aroma of coffee soon fills the air and you are served a cup of estate brew, if you are lucky, just roasted. The tour is a strenuous climb up old stone steps and along a steep narrow pathway to the gazebo, ‘Shofuku-tei.’ Surrounded by a pretty garden it offers a spectacular 360-degree view of the Estate and surrounding mountains. You can also tour the restored Georgian house (once the official residence of the colonial governor generals). The Estate is over 40 acres and is owned and operated by the Japanese coffee company, Ueshima.
Clifton Mount
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The property reveals itself unexpectedly. Framed by huge trees, the magnificent garden with its sweeping lawns, leads up to a small graceful 18th. Century estate house. Beyond that, far across the valley over a series of ridges, you can see the mist shrouding over the Blue Mountain peak. It is one of the most environmentally-friendly coffee farms in Jamaica and is Rainforest Alliance certified, it also has an extensive horticulture nursery. Tours can be arranged. The family-owned business grows and processes coffee, and operates the Café Blue coffee shops in Kingston and Montego Bay. The Company also has a bakery and produces a range of delicious Jamaican pastries and confectionary.
Old Tavern Growing coffee has been a familybusiness of the Twymans from the 1950s. The property stretches for as far as the eye can see, and the coffee is grown, processed and packaged right there. The tour takes you through the plantation, where there are some old stone foundations of historic importance dating back to the early English settlers, and there is a trail that leads to a small waterfall. Owner David Twyman, gives a fascinating talk, while
CULINARY TOURS IN THE MOUNTAINS you sample freshly-brewed coffee in the old wooden coffee roasting house.
able to buy coffee roasted right before you.
Lime Tree
Jablum
Is a working coffee estate overlooking Mav i s B a n k t h a t a l s o of fe r s accommodation, with home-cooked meals, for visitors who want to stay over. There are several trails to explore, including the Governor’s bench trail and trips to nearby waterfalls and mountain streams. A highlight is being
Located in the small town of Mavis Bank, the Jablum coffee factory is the largest coffee plant, processing coffee beans supplied by over 2000 local farmers across the island. The 45-minute tour takes you through demonstrations of pulping, drying and roasting.
FEATURE
Belcour
Lodge
RM, NESTLED IN A A SEVEN-ACRE FA MAMMEE RIVER AT E VALLEY BESIDE THTHE BLUE MOUNTAINS. OF THE FOOTHILLS ONCE AN OLD THE PROPERTY WASTHE 19TH CENTURY D COFFEE ESTATE AN PLANTATION-STYLE D, ME TIMBER-FRA ME TO ROBIN AND HOUSE IS NOW HO LUMSDEN. MICHAEL
An enthusiastic foodie, Robin started creating unique tropical fruit preserves and hot sauces in her kitchen, using the fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the Blue Mountains and combining them with honey from their apiary.
Honey farming The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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What started as a cottage industry has grown into a full-fledged culinary business and the Belcour range of specialty condiments are now available locally and overseas.
Places to Eat, Drink and Chill
honey jerk shrimp cocktail
Cooking classes
Food tours, cooking classes and monthly pop-up culinary events a re a l s o ava i l a b l e , o f fe r i n g v i s i t o r s a wonderful introduction to Jamaica’s diverse culinary landscape. Visitors can enjoy a five-night stay at this ‘sweet sanctuary,’ in a one-bedroom cottage on the property. Food tours include visits to coffee estates and organic farms in the Blue Mountains, as well as to places of historic and cultural interest.
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The cooking classes (authentic Jamaican fusion cuisine), are taught by Robin, who is an-at-home-chef and author of the Belcour cookbook. There are also classes in bee-keeping and honey farming at the Belcour apiary. Themed culinary events include yoga and music, and the couple hosts private brunches, birthdays, corporate retreats, tea and dinner parties on the newly constructed deck. Belcour works closely with ‘Jamaica on a Platter’ a local tour company operated by Lyndalee Burke that offers culinary tours around the island. The property is open by appointment and bookings are made t h ro u g h t h e Mo o n Reservations website.
MENU GUIDE
Th e G a p Re s t a u ra nt overlooks Holywell National Park. It’s a peaceful place, and at over 4,000ft., you get to see the mist swirling around and hummingbirds feeding. The view is breath-taking. Serving mostly Jamaican fare, the coffee is Frenchpressed and good. There’s inside dining, but most head for the wooden deck to take in the view. One of the most pleasant places en route to the Blue Mountains is Cafe B l u e . H e re y o u c a n enjoy the best freshly brewed Blue Mountain coffee from the Clifton Mount Estate. The tiny Cafe also serves snacks, pastries and cakes. The newly extended wooden deck offers comfortable seating, and adjoins the popular Crystal Edge Restaurant which serves tasty Jamaican home-style meals. On the lower level of the restaurant, owner Winsome Hall has added a cosy bar and games room.
CULINARY TOURS IN THE MOUNTAINS
Look out for the 17-mile post on the side of the road, here you’ll find EITS Cafe (Europe in the Summer) and Mount Edge hostel. It’s a rustic-style eatery serving farm-to-table dining on several levels of the mountainside. It is also a working organic farm, and offers accommodation. The tiny Café Bloom is the newest spot, hugging the roadside at a narrow bend it offers coffee, light snacks, vegan dishes fresh juices…and the best view.
Strawberry Hill is an exclusive boutique hotel, and is part of Island Outpost, owned by well-known music producer, Chris Blackwell of Island Records. The modest estate house was beautifully restored and accommodates a restaurant on the terrace. Sunday Brunch here has become a treat for local families and visitors alike.
Gardens, Parks & Places of Historic Interest
As part of the culinary tour, visitors can do some sight-seeing:
Heritage Gardens of Cold Spring An interpretative nature centre for the Blue Mountain it is a beautiful property with terraced gardens and ruins of the old coffee works.
Cinchona Gardens Established in1868 as a botanical garden and research station undertaking the experimental cultivation of cinchona trees (the bark was used to produce quinine, to fight malaria), the original buildings are now in ruin but it is fascinating spot well worth visiting and exploring. The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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CULINARY TOURS IN THE MOUNTAINS
Holywell National Park
Newcastle
Holywell is a nature reserve and recreational park operated by the Jamaica Conservation Development Trust (JCDT). It offers expansive grounds with gazebos, picnic spots, barbecue pits, benches, camping areas, hiking trails as well as log cabins for rent.
Built in 1842 as a hill station for the British Army, the camp at Newcastle is the training camp for the Jamaica Defence Force. The view from the Parade ground offers a panoramic view of Kingston and the surrounding mountains.
Holywell National Park
JDF Training Camp
The Blue Mountain Coffee Festival The Jamaica Gastronomy Network is aimed at creating gastronomy destinations across the island to link food with the landscape and promote culinary experiences, festivals and
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local cuisine. The Blue and John Crow Culinary Trail is one of the first foodie adventures currently being marketed by the Network, and the inaugural Blue Mountain Coffee Festival was launched at the Jamaica Defence Force Parade ground in Newcastle in August.
let’s
eat! out
G N I T S I L T N A R U A REST OUT OF TOWN KINGSTON &
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HERE’S OUR SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS, EATERIES AND CAFES ISLANDWIDE. WE INCLUDE FINE-DINING TO FAST FOODS, A-LA-CARTE TO FIXED PRICE. THERE`S SOMETHING FOR EVERY PALATE AND EVERY PRICE RANGE.
kingston 100 KINGSTON
C&C SOUTH BEACH
100 Hope Road 876-665-3238
2 Brompton Road 876-919-3700
876 TERRACE BAR & GRILL
CAFÉ AFRICA
Shop #1, Southdale Plaza Halfway Tree 876-305-1308
2 Trafalgar Road 876-828-4144
ALADIN
Sovereign Centre 106 Hope Road 876-978-7790
CHEZ MARIE
Irish Town 876-944-8918
CHILITOS
CAFÉ BLUE
Shop #14 134 Old Hope Road 876-970-1291 ALI’S ROTI
SHOP #25 Annette Crescent 876-931-9889
Norman Manley International Airport
ANNEX EAST JAPANESE CPJ COURTYARD
114 Constant Spring Road 876-649-9971
CAFÉ DOLCE
71 Lady Musgrave Road 876-481-0990
KIG, Spanish Town Road 876-648-7457
ASHANTI OASIS VEGETARIAN
CAFÉ PHOENIX
12 Braemar Avenue 876-946-2401
2 Phoenix Avenue 876-648-7686
BARBICAN BEACH BAR
CANNON BALL CAFÉ
13 East Kings House Road 876-421-0535
Loshusan Plaza, Barbican 876-946-0983
BLOOM CAFÉ
20-24 Barbados Avenue New Kingston 876-754-4486
Irish Town 876-895-7356 BLUE RIDGE RESTAURANT
Lot #9 Salt Hill Road East Rural St. Andrew 876-562-7580 BREW’ D AWKENINGS
130 Old Hope Road 876-927-0786 BROKEN PLATE
14 Canberra Crescent 876-876-667-6891
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Manor Park Plaza 876-969-3399 Sovereign North Plaza Liguanea 876-946-0983 CHARCOALS & FLAME
9 West Kings House Road 876-613-2758 CHASERS CAFÉ
5 Belmont Road 876-906-0645 MENU GUIDE
100, Gaming Lounge and Res taurant CHELSEA JERK CENTRE
7 Chelsea Avenue 876-926-6322 80 LMR Lady Musgrave Road 876-927-8078 64 Hope Road 876-978-0537 CRYSTAL EDGE RESTAURANT
Irish Town 876-944-8053 DANNY’S MARINA SPORTS BAR & RESTAURANT
Rockfort Road 876-290-6701 DEAF CAN CAFÉ
4 Cassia Park Road (reservation only) 876-587-3833 DRAGON COURT RESTAURANT
Dragon Centre 10m South Avenue 876-920-8477 DRAGON PALACE
Tropical Plaza Constant Spring Road 876-906-5165 EARL’S JUICE GARDEN
208 Haining Road 876-920-1677 EDEN VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT
24 Central Plaza 876-926 3051
| RESTAURANT LISTING F&B DOWNTOWN
MAJESTIC SUSHI & GRILL
107 Harbour Street 876-922-1109
Villa Ronai 876-564-1334
FISH POT
MOBY DICK
39a Half Way Tree Road 876-960-6039
43 Port Royal Street 876-922-4468
FROMAGE BISTRO
MOTHER EARTH VEGETARIAN
8 Hillcrest Avenue 876-622-9856
POTWAH RESTAURANT AND BAR
8 Hillview 876-968-9952 PEPPERWOOD
2 Chelsea Avenue 876-906-0602 PRESS PRINT SHOP & CAFÉ
13 Oxford Terrace 876-926-2575
7-9 Ardenne Road 876-665-9685
Top Shop, Foreshore Road Port Royal 876-967-8220
MR. BREAKFAST
PUSHPA INDIAN RESTAURANT
Bottom Shop, High Street Port Royal 876-967-8066 (See also Victoria Pier)
NATIONAL GALLERY CAFÉ
Roy West Building Downtown 876-922-1561
RITUALS COFFEE HOUSE
GOLDEN GATE
NEW LEAF VEGETARIAN
SCOTCHIES
14 Northside Plaza 876-977-7552
Shop #6 Lane Plaza 876-977-5423
GROSVENOR CAFÉ
NORTHSIDE KITCHEN
1 Grosvenor Terrace Manor Park 876-543-6289
18 Northside Plaza 876-702-3164
HOT POT
11 Oxford Road 876-908-3960
GLORIA’S SEAFOOD
Altamont Crescent 876-929-3906 JABLUM CAFÉ
8 Holborn Road 876-789-2422
OASIS AT THE OXFORD
ONE LOVE CAFÉ BOB MARLEY MUSEUM
NCB Towers, Hope Road 876-556-9539
56 Hope Road 876-630-1588
JAMAICA LIQUOR WAREHOUSE
ORGANIC SEAFOOD NETWORK
17 Lindsay Crescent 876-925-9427
19 Balmoral Avenue 876-620-9242
JOJO’S JERK PIT
PASTRY PASSIONS
12 Waterloo Road 876-906-1509
Shop #1 Northside Plaza 876-977-5454 Shop # 5 Village Plaza 876-754-1992 152 Constant Spring Road Constant Spring Golf Club 630-8131 SHELLEY’S CAFÉ AT UTECH
237 Old Hope Road 876-613-5043 SIMMA SOUPERY AND BAKERY
157 Old Hope Road Welcome Plaza 876-622-7353 SKY DWELLER ULTRA LOUNGE
7-9 Ardenne Road 876-627-4262
49a Hope Road 876-927-9552
LILLIAN’S
School of Hospitality Training Restaurant, UTECH 237 Old Hope Road 876-970-2224 LORNA’S
189 Mountain View Avenue Z978-5865 M-10 BAR & GRILL
6 Vineyard Road 876-930-2112 (see also Victoria Pier)
a at Devon House Steakhouse on the Verand
THE PALLET
SCRIPT CAFÉ
5a North Avenue, Halfway Tree 876-576-0603
31 East Trade Way 876-948-6928
TOSS & ROLL SALAD BAR
Braeton Parkway Shop Sovereign Village 876-667-5699
75 Hope Road 876-879-3310
s Pita Grill for healthy wrap SO SO SEAFOOD BAR AND GRILL
4 Chelsea Avenue 876-968-2397 SONIA‘S HOMESTYLE
17 Central Avenue 876-929-2435 SORA JAPANESE SKY CUISINE
9-11 Phoenix Avenue 876-649-0131 SOUTH AVENUE GRILL
20a South Avenue 876-754-1380 STARBUCKS
Liguanea Plaza 876-616-2374 SUPER’S SPICY DOUBLES
93 Old Hope Road Toyota Showroom 876-923-7231 TRIPLE CENTURY SPORTS BAR
69 Knutsford Boulevard 876-906-0333 TRIPLE T’Z EATERY
134 Constant Spring Road 876-941-0520 WHITE BONES SEAFOOD
1 Manning Hills Road 876-925-2813 WHOLESOME CAFÉ
SWEETWOOD JERK JOINT
Shop #7 2 Seymour Avenue 876-649-0922
78 Knutsford Boulevard 876-906-4854
PORTMORE
14 Trafalgar Road 876-978-1582 THE GAP CAFÉ
Holywell, Blue Mountains 876-833-9164 THE HAVEN
12 Hillcrest Avenue 876-648-2115
HOTELS ALTAMONT COURT
COURTLEIGH HOTEL
ZOLEAH VEGAN RESTAURANT
THE DECK
15 East Side Plaza 876-634-7879
TROPICAL CHINESE CUISINE
SUSIES BAKERY AND COFFEE BAR
51 Hope Road 876-978-8443
RUSSELL’S T20 RESTAURANT
Mango’s Restaurant 1-5 Altamont Crescent 876-876-656-9790
14 Ocean Boulevard, Digicel Food Court 876-295-1431
TGI FRIDAYS
OLD HARBOUR
1 Annette Crescent 876-969-1345
144-146 Old Hope Road 876-361-2243
Southdale Plaza 876-968-5030
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TOYOTA CAFÉ
THE OFFICE BAR & GRILL
ALIV PREMIUM LOUNGE
TJ Building | 876-577-8686 BUSH & WATER
16 Port Henderson Road 876-841-0258
Alexander’s Restaurant Mingles Bar Knutsford Boulevard 876-929-9000 COURTYARD BY MARRIOT
Centro Bistro 1 Park Close 876-618-9900 EDEN GARDENS
Tulips, Black Orchid, Kushite’s 39 Lady Musgrave Road 876-946-9977 FOUR SEASONS
Tip Top Restaurant 18 Ruthven Road 876-926-8805 GRAND PORT ROYAL HOTEL
Waterfront Restaurant Port Royal 876-967-8494
JOLLY’S RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
1 Port Henderson Road 876-988-7593 JUNGLE FYAH RESTAURANT
Bayside Plaza, Pines Plaza Angel’s Plaza 876-470-8099
The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
ens Black Orchid at Eden Gard
Oak Wine Bar Bad Dawg Sausage Island Coffees Devon House I’ Scream Opa Greek Restaurant CPJ MARKET
CPJ Deli KNUTSFORD COURT
The Melting Pot 16 Chelsea Avenue 876-929-1000 LIGUANEA CLUB
Summerhouse 88 Knutsford Boulevard 876-906-6515 MAYFAIR HOTEL
Secret Garden | The Pub West King’s House Close 876-926-1610 PEGASUS HOTEL,
Café 24/7 | Blends Bar | Blue Window Knutsford Boulevard 876-926-3690 SPANISH COURT HOTEL
Rojo Restaurant | Sky Bar | Café 1 St. Lucia Avenue 876-926-0000 STRAWBERRY HILL
Irish Town | 876-944-8400 TERRA NOVA HOTEL
The Terrace | The Regency 17 Waterloo Road 876-926-2211
FOOD PLACES VICTORIA PIER
Ocean Boulevard Devon House I’ Scream M10 Ribbiz Ocean Lounge Island Coffees Ocean 7 Sky Lounge
71 Lady Musgrave Road Y Not Pita CPJ Deli Cru HILLCREST
8 Hillcrest Avenue Oak Wine Bar El Centro Fromage Bistro ORCHID VILLAGE
18-22 Barbican Road Tamarind Pita Grill Raffaele Gourmet Pizza Sea Deck Takeaway Chive Eatery MANOR CENTRE
195 Constant Spring Road Cellar 8 Island Vibz Seafood Juice It Bar Vietnamese 4U Ziggy SOVEREIGN MALL
106 Hope Road DeliWorks Food Court Jade Garden SOVEREIGN NORTH
29 Barbican Road Cannonball Café Devon House I’Scream Domino Pizza Eleni French Bakery & Cafe
devon house bakery Taurus Garden Uncorked Zen Japanese MARKET PLACE
67 Constant Spring Road Beirut China Express East Japanese Fromage Brasserie Mi Hungry Noodles East Saffron Indian Cuisine Usain Bolt’s Tracks & Records 80 LMR
80 Lady Musgrave Road Chez Marie Nirvanna Indian Restaurant Taurus Court Tea Tree Creperie
GARDENS PAGES IN THE GARDEN
Hope Botanical Gardens Old Hope Road 876-970-2370 BOONE HALL
4 River Road, Stony Hill 876-942-3064 | Sunday Brunch by the River (End of every month)
BEACHES AUNT MERLE’S FISH PLACE
Half Moon Bay, Hellshire, 876-587-8475
DEVON HOUSE
26 Hope Road Grog Shop Devon House Bakery Steakhouse on the Verandah Reggae Mill Bar
Oakville Wine Bar
pages in the garden
FEATURE
broken plate The Perfect Rendezvous This swanky new restaurant is well worth trying out. Located in the recently built office complex in Liguanea, you pass through a lush, plant-filled atrium to get to the restaurant. Here the décor is impressive, with a floor-to-ceiling wall feature of broken plates! The menu is extensive and includes the signature dish – seared duck breast bruschetta with an herb mushroom confit, finished with a balsamic drizzle. There’s a gourmet sandwich selection and popular options include the crab cake muffin, pork belly sliders, lamb burger, and the marlin on toast topped with sliced otaheiti apple and fresh guacamole. Salads are varied - you might want to try the warm salad of grilled romaine, herb sautéed beets, chick peas, corn, onion and bell peppers topped with feta cheese. There are several pasta dishes, including a curried goat pasta. On the seafood menu, the
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lobster tail simmered in a spicy coconut sauce is enticing. If meat is your preference you can try the braised lamb shank, rib-eye steak with roasted garlic and blue cheese crumble, or pork chops with herbs and a mango sticky Asian sauce. You can choose from a selection of sides to go with your meal – try the cranberry sweet potato mash or almond rice pilaf. For dessert, heaven comes in a bite of the deconstructed cheesecake trifle, with fresh berries, caramel popcorn and fresh whipped cream. There’s a full bar serving a range of wines. To keep things interesting, the menu is changed every three months.
Patrons can choose to dine inside the restaurant or in the outside atrium. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, from 11:00am to 10:00pm (closed on Sunday), the restaurant caters to everyone including families with children (who enjoy the freedom of the atrium) to business folk, as well as couples wanting an intimate, romantic dinner spot. 14 Canberra Crescent, Liguanea, Kingston | 876-667-6991
ST. ANN OCHO RIOS AND RUNAWAY BAY ALMOND TREE RESTAURANT
83 Main Street 876-974-2813 ANGLERS
St. Ann’s Bay Road 876-794-8449 BAMBOO BLU
Mammee Bay Road 876-974-9983 BETTINO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Drax Hall Estate 876-562-5600 CHRISTOPHER’S
Hermosa Lane Pineapple OR 876-974-3699 EAT UR VEGGIES
Upstairs, 130 Main Street OR 876-974-6065 EVITA ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Eden Bower Road 876-974-2333 GREAT ESCAPE RESTAURANT
A1 Runaway Bay Golf Club 876-973-4239 ISABELLA
Runaway Bay Heart Hotel RB 973-6671 KRI’SO LOUNGE & WINE BAR
4 Main Street 876-974-6487 L’ESGARGOT
Main Street RB 876-973-5652 LITTLE SANTORINI
Old Road, White River 876-631-4548
LYMING JERK FOOD
TOSCANINI
Walker’s Wood 876-917-2812
Harmony Hall, Tower Isle 876-975-4785
MISS T’S KITCHEN
USAIN BOLT’S TRACKS & RECORDS
65 Main Street 876-795-0099
Pineapple Street 876-633-9161
OCEAN’S 11
Fisherman’s Point Road, 876-974-6896
FOOD PLACES
PASSAGE TO INDIA
OCHO RIOS FISHING VILLAGE
2 Turtle Beach Road, Fisherman Point Resort 876-795-3182 ROXBOROUGH RESTAURANT AGR
Byfield Highway St. Ann’s Bay | 876-972-9122 SCOTCHIES
St. Ann’s Bay 876-564-7993
There are four restaurants serving mainly seafood, including a beach restaurant. There is also a Deli serving snacks, ital food and a smoothie bar. Customers can dine in the restaurants or in the pavilion. ISLAND VILLAGE
SEASIDE DUTCHIE
Fantasy Beach, Priory 876-794-8227 SHARKIES BAR & GRILL
A1 Main Street, Salem RB 876-973-5472
Turtle River Road Boardwalk Bistro Café da Vinci Island Coffee Margueritaville Rasta Taco Rolly Polly Scoops Icecream
SPRING GARDEN CAFÉ & SEAFOOD GRILL
Ocho Rios Bypass, OR 876-795-3149 STUSH IN THE BUSH
Zionites Farm, Free Hill. Farm to Table (Booking Required) 876-562-9760 SUGAR POT BEACH BAR & RESTAURANT
Rio Nuevo 876-852-7135 TANDOOR
PATTIES
FOR THE BEST PATTIES CHOOSE FROM TASTEE, MOTHERS AND JUICI BEEF - THESE ICONIC JAMAICAN BRANDS HAVE OUTLETS ALL ACROSS THE ISLAND, AND ALSO SERVE AUTHENTIC JAMAICAN DISHES.
Landmark Plaza 3 Buckfield Road 876-974-8899 The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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MONTEGO BAY 100 MOBAY
FLAVOURS EXPRESS
Megamart Plaza 876-665-3238
Gloucester Avenue, Doctor’s Cave Beach 876-280-6266
876 LEGENDS
Fairview Shopping Centre 876-633-9578 BELLEFIELD RESTAURANT
Fairfield 876-649-9971 BIGGS BBQ RESTAURANT
HARD ROCK CAFÉ
Freeport 876-953-6505 HOUSEBOAT GRILL
Alice Eldermire Drive 876-979-8845
White Sands Beach Casa Blanca 876-952-9488
JERKYS BAR AND GRILL
BLUE BEAT
JIMMY BUFFET’S MARGARITAVILLE
Gloucester Avenue 876-952-4777 COFFEE ‘N CRÈME CAFÉ
Whitter Village, Ironshore 876-953-4588 CAFÉ BLUE
The Shoppes at Rosehall Fairview Shopping Centre Donald Sangster International Airport CAFÉ MOCHA
1-3 Gloucester Avenue 876-979-6692 CHILL OUT HUT
A1 Greenwood Avenue 876-620-8720 DAY-O-PLANTATION RESTAURANT
Lot 1, Fairfield Road 876-952-1825
Fairview Shopping Centre 876-684-9101
M19 Southern Cross Boulevard 876-979-8041 MAMA VENA’S KITCHEN
SEAFOOD MARKET
Southern Cross Boulevard 876-953 5768 SEAHORSE GRILL
Sunset Drive 876-684-9133
SUGAR MILL RESTAURANT
Bogue Road 876-622-7198 MYSTIC INDIA
Whitter Village 876-953-9460 MYSTIC THAI
Fairview Town Centre 876-889-2430
33 Gloucester Avenue 876-940-6863 Spring Farm Drive Rose Hall 876-953-2211 SWEET SPICE RESTAURANT
Westgate Shopping Centre 876-952-3199 UNCORKED WEST
PELICAN GRILL
Fairview Shopping Centre 876-622-2878
Gloucester Avenue 876-952-3171
USAIN BOLT TRACK’S & RECORDS
PIER 1
7 Gloucester Avenue 876-971-0000
PORK PIT 27
Gloucester Avenue 876-952-1046 RITUALS COFFEE HOUSE
Fairview Shopping Centre 876-953-6031
Salt Marsh | 876-954-7155
56 The Jamaican Restaurant
Coral Gardens 876-953-8041
MVP SMOKEHOUSE
1-3 Gloucester Avenue 876-971-6566
FAR OUT FISH HUT
SCOTCHIES
SEVEN RESTAURANT & BAR
Howard Cooke Boulevard 876-557-2299
Fairview Shopping Centre 876-347-9500
Doctors Cave Beach 876-631-4952
49 Union Street Overton Plaza 876-802-1824
DEBUT FINE WINE & GRILL BRICK OVEN PIZZA
DLE CAFÉ
SAND BAR
MENU GUIDE
FALMOUTH JOE JAMES RESTAURANT & GALLERY
Rio Bueno | 876-954-0048 GLISTENING WATERS RESTAURANT & MARINA
876-954-3229
FEATURE
of barbecued dishes to choose from - try the owner’s special, the Millwood smoked BBQ chicken, or the BBQ pigs tails; for seafood try the Thaistyle curried crab spring rolls, coconut curried shrimp, lobster parmigiana or the dillscented salmon burger; the Yard Plates menu of fe r s t r a d i t i o n a l Jamaican fare, with a twist-choices that won’t disappoint include the beerbraised oxtail or pineapple rum glazed chicken. There are Game Day and Party Platters, generous portions of savoury and spicy snacks and bites, try the popular Traffic or the Dwellers Ultimate Recharge; The Kiddies Menu will entice the little ones with mini servings of beef or chicken sliders and loaded fries. For dessert, try the Bailey’s bread pudding or delicious tiramisu. Patrons converge at the bar, where innovative concoctions are served throughout the evening. The restaurant also caters to birthday parties and special private events.
SKY DWELLER
RESTAURANT & SPORTS LOUNGE The Newest Chill Sport in Kingston If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle, and enjoy a relaxed meal in spacious, comfortable surroundings, then head to the top floor of the new Ardenne Emirates business complex on Ardenne Road. The Sky Dweller Ultra Lounge is the latest chill spot in Kingston. A fab new place, it’s many things – a restaurant, cocktail bar and sports lounge, with indoor and outdoor seating. Offering a wide menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it caters to everyone: families can enjoy a meal with kiddie options up to 10:00pm, then after hours it turns into a club of sorts, staging free and pay events. Once you navigate the menu, (its extensive), then sit back relax and enjoy the vibe. There’s the regular fare of soups, salads, sandwiches, pasta and main dishes…and then there are the signature items that are well worth a try. For salads, go for the Skylicious chopped salad or the Brittled Heaven, a wholesome mix of mixed greens, quinoa, dried fruits, citrus wedges, cherry tomatoes all topped with a blue cheese crumble and crunchy peanut brittle; there’s a wide selection
7-9 Ardenne Road, Kingston 876-627-4262
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PORTLAND PORT ANTONIO
ANNA BANANAS
SAN SAN TROPEZ
7 Folly Road 876-542-1497
San San Bay 876-993-7213
BELINDA RIVERSIDE RESTAURANT
SCOTCH BONNET
Rio Grande 876-389-8826 BUSH BAR AT GEEJAM
Match Resort, Dolphin Bay 876-279-8536 SOLDIER CAMP BAR & GRILL
(Reservation required) 122 Skipper Boulevard 876-993-7000
83 Red Hassell Road 876-351-4821
CYNTHIA’S
29 Harbour Street 876-573-8603
Winnifred Beach 876-562-4860 DICKIES BEST KEPT SECRET (cash only)
East Coast Highway, Bryants Bay 876-809-6276 SAFARI DECK RESTAURANT
Great Huts 8-10 Boston Bay 876-993-8888 MARYBELLE’S PUB
Errol Flynn Marina, 876-413-9731 MILLES FLEURS
Hotel Mocking Bird Hill Port Antonio 876-993-7267
58 The Jamaican Restaurant
THE ITALIAN JOB
THE VERANDA
Trident Hotel (Reservation Required) Anchovy 876-633-7100 WOODY’S
Highway A4, Drapers 876-993-7888 876-436-5624
LONG BAY CHILL OUT BEACH BAR LONG BAY 876-508-1521 CLIFF HANGER RESTAURTANT
Ross Craig, Long Bay 876-860-1395
MENU GUIDE
LE PIRATES
Frenchman’s Cove Port Antonio 993-7072 (Visitors are required to pay the entrance fee to the Beach, to dine at the restaurant)
BOSTON JERK CENTRE
Roadside side stalls, the jerk pits are constantly smoldering, grilling chicken, pork and sausages, all Boston-style.
CROISSANTS UNLMITED
Fairfield Road 567-9998 Order your sweet desserts – delicious cheesecakes, fruit pockets, pies and cakes, made to order.
| RESTAURANT LISTING
ST. ELIZABETH JACK SPRAT
PARADISE OCEAN VIEW
Treasure Beach 876-564-8983
74 Crane Road Parottee Beach 876-379-5224
LOVER’S LEAP RESTAURANT
Yardley Chase, Santa Cruz 876-965-6887 LAS VEGAS CAFÉ
YABBA RESTAURANT
Treasure Beach Hotel, 48 High Street 876-965-0110
70 Crane Road 876-965-9648
PELICAN BAR Half mile north-west of Treasure Beach in the Caribbean Sea. 876-354-4218
ST. MARY EL PABLOS BAR & GRILL
2 Caribbean Park Tower Isle 876-332-9750 LUSH BAR & GRILL
20 Warner’s Street 876-510-2035
hanover LOBSTER TRAPP
Hopewell | 876-535-3367 SMOKED MARLIN
Hopewell | 876-609-4181 The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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| RESTAURANT LISTING
WESTMORELAND NEGRIL BLUE MAHOE RESTAURANT
West End Road 876-399-3772 KENNY’S ITALIAN CAFÉ
Norman Manley Boulevard 876-957- 4032 BONGO’S
Sandy Haven Hotel, Norman Manley Boulevard 876-957-3200 CIAO JAMAICA
23 West End Road 876-393-1400
MURPHY’S WEST END RESTAURANT
WINE WITH ME
West End Road 876-367-0475
Beachcomber Hotel, Norman Manley Boulevard 876-340-2108
RICK’S CAFÉ
XTABI RESTAURANT
West End Road 876-957-0380
Light House Road 876-957-0121
SEASTAR RESTAURANT
Seastar Inn, 4 Seastar Road, West End 876-957-0553 THE LODGE RESTAURANT
Tensing Pen West End Road 876-957-0387
BLUEFIELDS THE CRACKED CONCH
Luna Sea Inn A2 South Coast Highway 876-955-8099
FEATURE
victoria
pier
DINING ON THE WATERFRONT Somehow the food tastes better! After a long wait, and much speculation, the new Victoria Pier complex has opened to the public…and we are impressed! A welcome addition to the Kingston foodie scene, it’s located on the water’s edge on Ocean Boulevard overlooking the harbour. Multi-levelled, the sleek, contemporary design accommodates restaurants, bars, a café and ice-cream parlour, with more outlets to come on stream. Patrons can choose to sit inside the restaurants and bars; or outside, either on the decks or in the landscaped courtyard, and watch the slow-moving ocean vessels go by.
music and cultural events, as well as food and drink festivals. The roof top venue is also available for parties, weddings and corporate events, and the location is on the itinerary for harbour tours.
OUTLETS GLORIA’S SEAFOOD CITY
Replicates the Port Royal fish experience, and offers dining inside or on the deck.
There is ample parking (on both sides of the boulevard) and security throughout the day and evening. Already a hub of activity, there are plans to host art, The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
61
ISLAND COFFEE
This small outlet of the Island Coffee chain is where you can get assorted brews, savoury snacks, cakes and pastries.
RIBBIZ OCEAN LOUNGE
Another Kingston outpost for Ribbiz, it has a great vibe when the sun goes down. There is a lunch and dinner menu, as well as light snacks and bites.
M10
You enter through this restaurant to access the upper levels of the complex. The walls feature floor-to-ceiling murals of old Jamaica, including a photo of the old Victoria Pier at the turn-ofthe-century. This is another outlet for the M10 restaurant chain, and offers a variety of Jamaican-style dishes.
DEVON HOUSE I ‘SCREAM OCEAN 7 SKY BAR AND CLUB
A popular hot spot for the after-work business crowd, it is also a venue for events.
The world-famous Devon House ice cream is a big hit at this new location. The parlour does a brisk business, particularly on weekends, and offers over twenty-something delicious flavours. Ocean Boulevard, Downtown Kingston.
Unoccupied for over fifteen years, the new complex joins several other business ventures aimed at redeveloping downtown. Digicel relocated their head office downtown a few years ago, and the new corporate
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office for Grace Foods is nearing completion, along with the new building for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. There are plans to build a launching pier to facilitate boats, as well as hotels and high-rise condos.
clarendon ZIP CAFÉ
Manchester Avenue May Pen 876-986-2639 MURRAY’S FISH & JERK HUT
Clarendon Park Garden 876-987-1885
MANCHESTER ASTRA COUNTRY INN & RESTAURANT
MANCHESTER ARMS PUB
OMG RESTAURANT & COFFEE BAR
62 Ward Road 876-962-7979
Mandeville Hotel 4 Hotel Street 876-962-2138
JAM NAMMINGS
MI HUNGRY
STAR GRILL
Shop 16, Superior Plaza Mandeville. 876-962-3764
THE ARCHES
25 Manchester Road Mandeville 876-962-7815 LITTLE OCHI SEAFOOD
Alligator Pond 876-852-6430
1 Brumalia Road, Mandeville 876-962-7251 20 South Race Course Road 876-632-3834 Mandeville Hotel 4 Hotel Street 876-962-9764
Melrose Hill The Jamaican Restaurant MENU GUIDE
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