A Guide To Local Jamaican Cuisine
If you share our passion for premium culinary adventures, diving into Jamaica's unique and peculiar local delicacies, deeply rooted in the island's culture, should top your travel itinerary. Sampling these distinctive dishes offers one of the most authentic ways to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Jamaica. To guide your gastronomic journey, we've curated a list of the most remarkable local delicacies you must try on this stunning island.
JERK CHICKEN
Jerk chicken stands as one of Jamaica’s most iconic traditional dishes. You may have sampled it elsewhere, but nothing compares to trying the authentic recipe on the island itself. Whether you get it from a roadside shack or an upscale restaurant, this flavorful chicken dish—rubbed down and marinated with an array of hot spices before being smoked—is a must-try in Jamaica.
RUN DOWN
The name of this exquisite dish comes from the fact that the fish is meticulously cooked in coconut milk until it breaks apart or has run down. The dish also contains fresh vegetables such as yam, tomatoes, and onions. This creamy dish may lack the fiery heat of other local specialties, but it certainly will not fall short of expectations.
CALLALOO
Callaloo is a leafy plant used in traditional dishes in many Caribbean countries. Local Jamaican recipes include steaming callaloo leaves with other vegetables and many spices and herbs, such as garlic, carrots, tomatoes, and thyme, to name a few, which give it its rich and delicate flavor. You can have it with fish or other meats, or you can perfectly enjoy it alone as a vegetarian dish.
Villa Rio Chico
Villa Rio Chico is an outstanding plantation-style luxury estate, a haven of opulence engulfed in lush greenery. It is just a short walk from the pristine white sands and ethereal azure waters of some of the island’s most stunning beaches. This spectacular estate comprises a grand villa and two charming guest cottages, which boast twelve opulent ensuite bedrooms for up to 24 guests. The villa melds high-culture prestige with modern glamor. It features a private fitness center, multiple exquisite swimming pools and jacuzzis, and meticulous tropical gardens decorated with stone bridges, lily ponds, waterfalls, and figurines.
ACKEE AND SALTFISH
This traditional one-pot dish can be served for breakfast or dinner. Ackeye is a fruit native to Jamaica that is a delicacy for locals and tourists. Along with those two main ingredients are fresh tomatoes, onions, and an array of spices that infuse the dish with an extra layer of rich flavor.
CURRY GOAT
If you have yet to experience goat, this is the perfect opportunity to do so. This curried goat dish is usually so tender it will fall right off the bone. The curry adds a delightful kick that you will have come to recognize during your stay on the island. Be mindful, however, as curry goat is typically served in small, bone-in pieces—it is not uncommon to encounter bones amidst the flavorful meat!
Fleming Villa
Nestled along the magnificent beachfront of the GoldenEye Resort in Orcabessa, Fleming Villa offers an unparalleled Jamaican retreat. The luxury rental home boasts an expansive main house and two charming guest cottages, embodying the essence of beachside tranquility. Infused with authentic Jamaican flair, the villa showcases bamboo furnishings and unique art pieces, all within an open-plan bungalow that seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor living.
Each of the five elegant bedrooms provides breathtaking vistas for up to ten guests. Guests can unwind in the private swimming pool, rejuvenate on the terrace and private beach, and indulge in al fresco dining and barbeque amenities in absolute seclusion.
While exploring the latest culinary delights in Jamaica, LVH will provide you with a luxury home for your stay. Book now and leave the rest to us. LVH is dedicated to ensuring your vacation is unforgettable wherever you travel. We provide personalized itineraries tailored to your preferences, allowing you to experience the moments that resonate with you deeply. Connect with one of our client relations professionals today to plan an extraordinary getaway to your desired destination.