In the vibrant neighborhood of Kendall, there are numerous family-run spots well-known for their flavorful Jamaican dishes, each offering a unique dining experience. One such place is famous for its jerk chicken and curry goat, drawing local residents to catch up on gossip while enjoying ackee and saltfish. Regulars often call in advance to secure their orders, but those who didn’t prepare can savor a spicy beef patty while they wait, further indulging in the delightful experience. Although primarily a takeout operation, a few tables outside invite diners to enjoy their oxtail on the spot.
In the heart of Little Haiti, Clives has been serving classic Jamaican fare for decades. This beloved location makes some of the best versions of various Jamaican dishes. While takeout is common, many prefer to dine in and soak in the atmosphere, complete with Rudeboy jams that create a lively backdrop. The jerk chicken is notably tender and not overwhelmingly spicy, making it perfect for those who opt to dunk it in the rich side of jerk sauce. Beyond the jerk chicken, diners should not miss out on their oxtail or fluffy ackee at breakfast.
Jamaica House, open 24 hours, transforms from a typical eatery into an energetic gathering spot at night where the atmosphere spills into the parking lot. With two distinct rooms, patrons order their meals in one and enjoy them next door in a dining area equipped with a bar and a pool table, ideal for those opting to eat in. Regardless of the dining choice, meals come in handy takeout containers, preventing diners from being overwhelmed by the juicy jerk chicken, which bears the distinctive flavor of scotch bonnet peppers. Add a drizzle of oxtail gravy over the peas and rice, but watch your step to avoid stray bones on the way out.
For affordable and rapid takeout, Jrk! stands out as a go-to choice for busy locals. Here, diners create their bowls by moving down an assembly line, selecting proteins, bases, and an abundance of toppings. Options include jerk chicken, curry chicken, pepper steak, shrimp, or oxtail. The most highly recommended addition is the pineapple plantains. Afterward, guests can venture next door to Mangrove for a different dining experience come nighttime.
During the daytime, Mangrove attracts customers with its extensive menu featuring jerk wings, curry oxtail, and whole fried snapper, paired with a lively atmosphere ideal for dancing to reggae tunes with friends. After enjoying a delicious meal, patrons are encouraged to admire the unique bar backsplash made from thousands of dominoes, providing an interesting blend of decor and culinary excellence.
At Yardie Spice, another intimate Jamaican/Haitian restaurant, the focus is on rich flavors and genuine hospitality. The culinary fusion is a product of a Jamaican mother and a Haitian father, enhancing the experience with personal stories about dishes like the must-try legume stew. Their conch fritters receive rave reviews, but the sizable, saucy jerk chicken wings are equally deserving of attention, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
In a large strip mall in northeast Kendall lies Jamaica Kitchen, a primarily takeout establishment with a few outdoor tables available. This Chinese-Jamaican spot excels with its jerk pork fried rice, a unique twist on traditional flavors. Diners will also find staple dishes such as moist jerk chicken. A refreshing peanut punch can be the perfect finish to a satisfying meal.
As a representation of Jamaican fast food, one establishment boasts brightly painted red and yellow walls and a drive-thru for ultimate convenience. Here, patrons quickly point out selections such as oxtail, escovitch, and jerk pork from the steaming counter. Despite the speed, the meals maintain quality, with flavorful meat and sticky plantains ensuring a fulfilling experience. A signature dish, the tender curry goat, offers a spicy kick that sneaks up on enthusiastic diners.
In Palmetto Bay, another gem combines Jamaican and Chinese cuisine, offering an interesting menu that includes lo mein alongside oxtail, fried rice, and curry goat. However, diners are urged to skip the Chinese offerings in favor of the fragrant curry goat, known for its spicy notes and tender chunks, which are typically devoid of bones for an enjoyable dining experience.
Just outside of Miami, the enticing aroma from Chef Tally’s food truck has captured many people’s attention. With a dedicated team grilling smoky jerk options, this mobile eatery specializes in jerk chicken, ribs, and pork, with the occasional seasonal lobster available. Diners are advised to make the highly recommended jerk chicken their primary order and don’t forget to stop by the table featuring unlabeled orangish sauces for an extra flavor kick.
In Miami Gardens, a local hot bar serves up wonderfully seasoned brown stew chicken, sorrel, and delectably spicy beef patties, available for those dining in or taking out. The cushy booths and lively Jamaican soundtrack encourage customers to linger a little longer. With a common question about gravy on rice and peas, the right answer is always a resounding yes. It’s worth the visit early in the day to secure the beloved beef patties, which tend to sell out quickly due to their irresistible flaky crust and surprising kick.
Additionally, a little restaurant near North Miami showcases the recognizable green and yellow exterior of the Jamaican flag. Their jerk chicken stands out, boasting a perfectly spiced dark brown exterior, complemented by tender oxtail that falls effortlessly from the bone. The establishment is more suited for takeout, given its limited dining space, yet patrons leave satisfied with hearty portions that highlight the best of Jamaican cuisine.
image source from：theinfatuation
