Celebrity Chef

Savor Underrated Caribbean Culinary Excellence

Stepping into this quaint Caribbean gem in the heart of the city, I immediately felt embraced by a vibrant atmosphere bursting with warmth and charm. The early morning hours welcome those like myself who traverse midtown long before most are even upright, causing the restaurant to feel like an oasis of delicious awakening. Greeted by a jovial staff keen on delivering a delightful dining experience, it was clear from my surroundings that cleanliness and comfort weren't merely afterthoughts but cornerstones of their operation. Taking a seat at one of the neat tables, I noticed how the space buzzed with the aroma of authentically tantalising soul food—a preamble to the culinary delights soon to grace my table.

The menu felt like a literal homage to the varied tastes of Jamaica, yet—by mid-afternoon—altogether elusive, with popular items like curry goat or oxtail frequently vanished, testament to the establishment’s deserved acclaim. My personal favourites had to be the rice and peas, which were nothing short of extraordinary, coupled with an oxtail so tender, it might well have mentioned my name in its will. The accompanying cakes deserve special mention, exuding moistness that feels like your favourite aunt had baked them herself, each slice lingering as a sublime reminder of what a real dessert should taste like. If there is a small nitpick it’s the portion sizes, rather minimalist compared to some rival haunts, but then perhaps that’s the intent—an enticement of excellence which ensures patrons return, aiming to savour more. Undeniably, missing breakfast here would be folly—I advise you make peace with setting an alarm and arriving pre-1pm, ensuring you sample every enchanting bite they offer, long before they predictably sell out. — Milo Tastemaker