Whether you are craving General Tso Chicken, fresh Mediterranean fare, or even Jerked Chicken Spring Rolls, the best Restaurants in Kingston have it all.
The Jamaican motto says “Out of Many One People”, which means even though there are a diverse group of people on the Island, we are one regardless of our racial background.
I’ve heard the complaints of a few locals expressing their grievances that “there are not enough diverse restaurants in Kingston” and they are tired of eating Jerk Chicken. I say to those people, you are probably looking in the wrong areas and you need to step outside the food boundaries you’ve created for yourself.
Today I will be sharing a few Restaurants in Kingston that offers diverse menu options and sometimes even a fusion menu! Whether you are a foodie or just tired of the “same old, same old”; consider this your internal guide for Restaurants you must try. I hope you are hungry and willing to try something new.
Kingston’s Most Diverse Restaurants For Take Out
Taurus Garden Chinese Restaurant
What it Is
A Chinese Restaurant located at Sovereign North. If you live in Kingston and within the Corporate area, the exact location is Barbican just one gate down from the National Chest Hospital.
Why I Like it
I like it because it offers authentic Chinese dishes made in a Wok (trust me, you can taste when food is made in a Wok) and offers dishes like Roasted Duck, Boiled Wonton, and a few Jamaican Favourites like “Curried Shrimp”. They also have a website that allows you to place your order and pay online and there is also the option to dine in or pick up (take out). They also have one of the best Vegetable Spring Rolls in Kingston in my opinion, but I encourage you to call ahead as there is a long wait time of 1 hr 30 minutes, especially on a Friday and Saturday.
Beruit Mediterranean Cuisine
What is Is
A Mediterranean, Middle Eastern Restaurant located at 67 Constant Road Road in Kingston at Market Place Court Yard
Why I Like it
This restaurant is all about location, location, location! I’m one of those people who hate driving (period) so I’m glad this is literally on the way to or from a few other places I frequent on a daily basis. If you are not quite familiar with Mediterranean cuisine, it includes healthy food like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, seafood, beans, and nuts. There is that wow factor associated with “eating with your eyes” and this restaurant offers that! The presentation and colors are inviting and tasty and because of the ration of vegetables, though delicious, it almost feels like you are cheating with a wholesome and fulfilling meal. They currently do not have a website, but you can find them on Google and Facebook and ask about the menu and any recommendations. Contact (876) 596-5956
Chilitos Jamexican Food
What it is
Mexican Restaurant with a Jamaican Twist! And I know what you are thinking “Are there Mexicans in Jamaica?” Yes! This Restaurant was started by a Jamaican which Mexican Heritage, then later bought by two (2) enterprising young Jamaican Men who had a new vision of their definition of “JaMexican”. The Restaurant is located at 88 Hope Road.
Why I Like it
It was the first Mexican Restaurant in Kingston and they offered great Tacos and specialty hot sauces with really clever names. I dub this as the experimental restaurant in a good way as they are always updating the menu and adding new things to cater to their growing and diverse client base. If you are not into meat, there is also the option to substitute it with popular Jamaican Food like Ackee or even Plantain. My favourite menu is the whole bowl which is a complete meal where you choose your protein and other sides. It reminds me of Chipotle and the way you can build your own bowls from scratch. They have a website where you can see menu items or you can order through local food delivery services or by phone. Please call and order ahead as because of the popularity of this restaurant, there is a wait time.
Cafe Hibiscus
What it Is
Do not let the name fool you, this is actually an Indian Restaurant and is literally a hidden gem in plain site! The area where it’s located is residential so you’ve possibly passed it a few times during your daily commute. It is located at 24 E Kings House Road which is just a 4-minute walk from Loshusan Supermarket.
Why I Like it
I was introduced to this Restaurant by a friend and was the first time I had authentic Basmati Rice and Butter Chicken. There was something very different about the curry in that it was more flavourful and rich in taste and it was because it was made by the owner from fresh turmeric. It is a great place for “home-style Indian food” where you get to try dishes like Indian Dhaba Curry Meal, Malia Kofta Meal, and Samosas. There are also Jamaican and International Items like Burgers and Jerk/Grilled Chicken Alfredo. You can order online through their website or by calling (876) 462-8505
Paladar Restaurant/Club Cubana
https://www.cafe-hibiscus.com/pages/menus
What it is
This is described as a Pan-Latin Restaurant located at 75 Hope Road near the Bob Marley Museum. If you like food and Latin music, this spot brings you the best of both worlds in an intimate semi-outdoor setting.
Why I Like it
I know a lot of Jamaicans or other cultures might know Cuba for its high-energy music and salsa and not so much for food, but I would like to introduce you to a whole new world. The Restaurant is branded as a Cuban, Asian, and Jamaican Fusion Restaurant which is in line with what Cuban Cuisine actually is: Cuba is a culinary melting pot, where African, Spanish, and Caribbean recipes are all intertwined”. There are popular items like the Cuban sandwich (Sandwich Cubano) which consists of a perfect mix of ham, cheese, mustard, pickles, and salsa on lightly toasted traditional Cuban bread.
This is one of those places to go to experience a different vibe from the usual Soca or Dancehall Music. It is an open-air and indoor setting and it is highly recommended to wear comfortable shoes for dancing.
Visit them on Instagram to learn more about their menu options.
I’ve made sure to include a number of cuisines and cultures for this list as I want you all to go out and try something new today. Open your mind and palate today and try something besides a Jamaican Beef Patty or Jerked Chicken. It’s the season for giving and I encourage you all to spread love, joy, and great holiday cheer during this holiday season.
Written By:
Lorane Rhoden
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