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With eateries planted on just about every road, and food-focused events becoming more popular, it’s been argued that Kingston restaurants have created a collection of foodie havens. Restaurant Week (RW) 2017 includes pre-selected three-course dinner menus from participating eateries for that year, mostly in Kingston. The inevitable dining pick dilemmas prompted me to highlight a handful of participating personal favourites in the area.

Affordable Kingston Restaurants

Jacqui Tyson Caterers

Two restaurants located in Downtown Kingston, at the DigicelΒ building and Jamaica Conference Centre. The below review is for their catering services, which has [so far] been my only interaction.

Why to Dine: Jacqui Tyson specializes in catering services, and is a regular caterer for an organization I work for. I’ve had the privilege of sampling a few of her tasty, unique bites on multiple occasions and have been consistently impressed. The staff is always courteous, and the presentation though simple is nothing short of elegant.

Keep in mind: Great selection of finger-foods / small servings

Tried & highly recommended from their RW menu:

Jacqui’s Signature Mango Glazed Pig’s Tail (pic 1)

Candied Sweet Potato

Other favourites: (Any) Pasta!

  • Delectability 80% 80%
  • Catering Variety 60% 60%
  • Catering Presentation 90% 90%
  • Staff Interactions 100% 100%

Beirut Mediterranean

Located in the ever-buzzing Marketplace courtyard on Constant Spring Road, amongst other global-inspired cuisines. This is one of my favourites, and I detail why when I hosted a birthday dinner (and smoke) here.

Why to Dine: With a choice of 3 areas both inside and outside, Beirut Mediterranean can reel you in at first bite with a side order of naan bread. It may take a few extra minutes for you to decide what to indulge in, but with numerous visits I’ve yet to be disappointed with a meal. An added bonus is the menu prices are final, and won’t burn a hole in your pocket! This eliminates the bloated β€œsurprise” at the end of your meal from added taxes and gratuity charges. After dinner, you have the option to indulge in a hookah session with a variety of flavoured tobacco choices.

Keep in mind: The customer service and food quality are better (in my experience) when catering to couples and small groups of 4 or less.

Tried & highly recommended from their RW menu

Beirut Mixed Grill (pic 1)

Chicken Stroganoff (pic 2)

Other favourites: Naan bread (duh!)

  • Delectability 75% 75%
  • Food Variety 80% 80%
  • Atmosphere 65% 65%
  • Staff Interactions 60% 60%

Nirvanna Indian Fusion Cuisine

Located on Lady Musgrave Road amongst a number of other eateries in a business complex.

Why to Dine: The ambiance is a combination of class and endearment, mixed with comfort. This is one reason why it was the venue to celebrate a milestone anniversary. Staff is happy to help with menu choices should you need suggestions. The food is served quickly, in fair portions, and will leave you with sheer satisfaction. It’s surely a candidate for a romantic rendezvous pick in Jamaica.

Keep in mind: Menu is heavily saturated with chicken and curried dishes (not necessarily the curry you’re used to).

Tried & highly recommended from their RW menu

Naan / Garlic Naan bread (pic 2)

Other favourites: Roomali Roti Roll with Mutton & Vegetables (pic 1) /Β Β Salmon Pan-Grilled, Pork Curry (pic 2)

  • Delectability 85% 85%
  • Food Variety 65% 65%
  • Atmosphere 90% 90%
  • Staff Interactions 80% 80%

Fromage Gourmet Market

Located on Hillcrest Avenue, this restaurant is always at the forefront of my mind when the desire to eat out surfaces.

Why to Dine: Dine outdoors or be seated inside with a view of the Eiffel Tower. With breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, it’s a great choice for any meal of the day. The food portions are generous, especially dinner (see for yourself from their various menus here!). I usually have to power through to not waste an ounce of a delicious meal.

Keep in mind: The section with the Eiffel Tower image is the bulk of the overall decor

 

Tried & highly recommended from their RW menu

Pomegranate-glazed Salmon (pic below)

Steak Au Poivre

Other favourites: Alfredo pasta, Shrimp Scampi (pic below), Chowder du jour, White wine sangria (pic below)

  • Delectability 77.5% 77.5%
  • Food Variety 85% 85%
  • Atmosphere 65% 65%
  • Staff Interactions 80% 80%

Cellar 8

Tucked in the Upper Manor Park Plaza behind a charming glass door with wooden accents.

Why to Dine: Stepping into Cellar8 is like stepping into the quintessence of elegance. This is also a candidate for me for a romantic rendezvous pick in Jamaica. The delectable meals will have you craving more; I know this because this is where I’ve ordered the most meals in 1 sitting.

Keep in mind: The prices are a bit heavier than the other restaurants mentioned here, while the serving portions aren’t.

Tried & recommended from their RW menu

C8 Famous Crab Dip (pic 1)

Ginger-glazed Pork Chop with Sorrel Relish (pic 2)

Other favourites: Surf &Turf – Filet Mignon w/ grilled shrimp (pic 2)

  • Delectability 85% 85%
  • Food Variety 70% 70%
  • Atmosphere 90% 90%
  • Staff Interactions 80% 80%

Where are your favourite cuisines or Kingston restaurants?

I always love to try new places! πŸ™‚ Let me know in the comments.

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