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NK Deli issues Gift cards for the Holidays!

by Restaurant Reviews & RatingsWhat's Hot

Don’t know what to get your pixie at work or have no clue what to get that nice coworker that you get along with? Or do you just need a cute stocking stuffer?

A tasty lunch, drinks or even dessert from NK Deli located upstairs in New Kingston Shopping Centre looks like a good idea. They are offering Gift cards at values of $500JMD, $750JMD and $1000JMD.

They are at a central location. Give them a quick visit and see all that they have to offer for affordable prices, then purchase your Gift card at the same time.

Have a great weekend!

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Nìrvanna Indian Fusion Cuisine is the new Birthday Hot Spot

by Restaurant Reviews & RatingsWhat's Hot

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Nirvanna had a packed night last week Thursday. Other than my fiancé, at least 2 or 3 other persons seemed to be celebrating birthdays.

We arrived on time for our reservation at 8:30pm. We were offered a seat by the bar until our table was available close to 9pm. It did not feel like a long wait, as the hostess had a lovely personality, chatted us up a little and we got more than enough time to browse the menu. I usually need more time choosing from an Indian menu. The atmosphere was nice with light Indian music and the decor was modern with a slight, sidewalk-terrace vibe with the arched columns.

We ordered at 9pm and our Tomato Basil soup ($495JMD) arrived quickly within minutes as it should. It was spicy but not hot and flavourful as the basil was fresh.20151203_210919-1.jpg

Our main dishes arrived shortly after our soup cleared. I was impressed that on a completely packed night, food arrived within reasonable time and the service was good. Our waiter could have been more attentive but he was pleasant.

We had the Paneer Tikka Masala ($1395JMD), Chicken with Spinach ($1595JMD) and Chicken with Fenugreek ($1595JMD). I think the dishes could have at least been served with the steamed basmati rice, but if desired, it would be at an additional cost. So we ordered the rice, Tandoori Roti and Tandoori Garlic Naan as our sides. Wine was reasonably priced by the glass and we had Chardonnay and Merlot.

When there is a debate about the winning dish, that is a good thing. I loved the Chicken with Spinach that was thick silky creamy sauce mildly spiced with garlic and masala tossed with boneless chicken tikka chunks versus the Chicken with Fenugreek that won by majority, which was thick silky creamy methi gravy mildly spiced with garlic and masala tossed with boneless chicken tikka chunks.

Something was a little different about the Tikka Masala so it lost out. Although Indian Cuisine is not native to our tongue, we have enjoyed others a bit more. My other half thought that it’s usually in a thicker sauce as well.

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A mini Chocolate Mousse Cake ($850JMD) from the Montego Bay Chocolate Company that has other desserts in there, was a lovely end to the meal. It was very small but moist and delicious.

A pretty pricey menu but worth it. They normally say different strokes for different folks but I think it is safe to say Nirvanna pleases on every level.

Nirvanna Indian Fusion Cuisine

***Reservations recommended***

*All prices subject to G.C.T and 5% service charge

Location: 1A 80 Lady Musgrave Rd. Kgn. 10

Ph: 876-927-9077

Facebook (Menu posted): Nirvanna Indian Fusion Cuisine

Instagram: nirvannaindianja

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Bahama Breeze in Duluth, Georgia – A franchise with great Food & Service

by FoodpornRestaurant Reviews & Ratings

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I visited Bahama Breeze in Duluth, Georgia a month ago and was happy to see that as a franchise ‘food joint’, the food was delicious, the service was quick, waiters were pleasant and the place was clean. Thanks to the Chef for cooking my steak to order, i.e. medium rare! Yum.

Other chains in Florida are known to do well too.

Keep it up Bahama Breeze!

 

 

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Miss T’s Kitchen offering the best of Jamaican cuisine in Ocho Rios!

by FoodpornRestaurant Reviews & Ratings

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Anna-Kay Tomlinson, is known as Miss T and for her famous Oxtail from her restaurant in Ocho Rios.

It is really an oasis in the jungle of ‘Ochi’ town with quite a rough road to get there. But once you reach, you will know your adventure on the unknown path was worth it.

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Miss T’s Kitchen was visited a couple weeks ago by my other half at about 2:30 in the afternoon for lunch during the week. He found his waiter, Glenroy quite welcoming, attentive and knowledgeable of the menu. The environment was nice and the food came out in reasonable time.

Was it Oxtail? No. Sadly there was no Oxtail available at the time. He ordered Chickpea and Tomato soup and Curried Goat. The Curried Goat was apparently fantastic. He said it was the best ‘Curry Goat’ he has had for a while. So don’t just go there for Oxtail! He had natural Juneplum and Pineapple juice with his meal and appreciated the freshly made, delicious food and good service.

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The bill was $1650JMD including a 10% service charge. Definitely value for money. Big up Miss T’s for keeping our Jamaican cuisine alive in tourist town!

Miss T’s Kitchen

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Location: 65 Main St., Ocho Rios

Ph: (876) 795-0099

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Suga enjoys Seafood at Anglers, Ocho Rios

by Restaurant Reviews & Ratings

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Last Saturday Suga took a road trip to Ocho Rios and ensured that she made a stop at Anglers for lunch at 2:30pm.

Parking was adequate and there was another couple that arrived at the same time.  We were the only diners there.

We were greeted pleasantly by our waitress and seated in a comfortable tropical, bar-like atmosphere, i.e. wooden barrels used for seats, a pool table etc. Even though it seemed quiet at the time, the pool table and performance stage indicated that the place may be full of activity in the evenings and at nights. I was told of beautiful lighting at nights, which I can just imagine from evidence of wiring and light sockets partially hidden in the thatched roof.

As I moved on to scan the menu, I noticed reasonable prices and Fish cooked any way you like it and availability in different sizes. The usual side orders of bammy, festival etc. were offered at mostly $200JMD each. There was also Sea Cat, Conch, Lobster and Shrimp kebabs and more. Outside of seafood, Jerked Chicken was also on the menu.

The Appetizers included Soup, Conch Fritters, Cracked Conch and more. We ordered at 2:40pm and our Cracked Conch ($850JMD) arrived in 15 minutes. By itself it was not so impressive but when dipped in their Citrus sauce it was awesome!

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Even though I ordered a 3/4lb Steamed Parrot. Our waitress told us they only had Red Snapper at that size. I went ahead with my order nonetheless. I was also happy that the 3/4lb option was offered because the 1lb option is on the heavy side portion-wise.

While enjoying our Cracked Conch and Red Stripe, our waitress checked on us and updated us on the time remaining for our main dishes to arrive, which was in 10 minutes.

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Steamed Sea Cat with steamed bammy

My other half’s Steamed Sea Cat ($900JMD) and my Steamed Fish ($850 for 3/4lb) arrived in the time expected. They were both delicious.

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Steamed Fish with steamed bammy

Suga endorses Anglers as a comfortable spot to enjoy some Seafood out of town!

Anglers Seafood Restaurant and Sports Bar
Location: Windsor Road. St. Ann’s Bay. St. Ann
Ph: 876-794-8449

Facebook: Anglers Jamaica

Instagram: @anglersjamaica

*FREE WIFI (that works!)*

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Gabby’s journey to Marguerites during RW was phenomenal!

by FoodpornRestaurant Reviews & RatingsWhat's Hot
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Gabrielle Williams (L) from Suga Lifestyle with fiancé Randolph Burgess (R)

After a 3-hour drive from Kingston on Sunday, November 15th, I arrived at Marguerites Seafood by the Sea, Montego Bay on time for my reservation at 8pm. Of course, I arrived not only hungry but with high expectations. Let me tell you from now that these high expectations were met!

My other half and I ordered by 8:05pm. The staff from the entrance to being seated were all very pleasant and professional. The ambience was lovely overlooking the sea where I sat on the balcony and the decor modern and decent. Sitting by the garden would have been nice as well.

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Shelly Ann was our Maître d’ for the night. She worked hard to ensure everything was alright and checked in with our table now and then, but not to the point of being overwhelming. I noticed that the General Manager visited the table next to us as well, welcoming them and ensuring everything was satisfactory. I find that proper supervision and interaction with guests are very necessary when a restaurant wishes to provide and sustain a high level of service.

Appetizers were out within 10 minutes and the other dishes followed like clockwork. Our glasses were refilled with water when needed and our waiter, Ricardo offered us the Robert Mondavi wines that were on special for RW. We had the Zinfandel and Sauvignon blanc.

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All of the dishes were delicious. Presentation was salivating and serving sizes were appropriate. For instance, I was a bit worried about where I was going to fit dessert, but thankfully I was not tempted too much and the Bread pudding and Cheesecake were small and compact, just the right size to fit in the space available in my tummy without feeling uncomfortable.

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The Appetizers were excellent. The Jerked Chicken Breast was well seasoned and minced up for the Beggars Purse and the Shrimp Trucillio had a lovely flavour. A delicious Caribbean Spiny Lobster Salad followed as a bonus with fresh veggies and a tasty vinaigrette. Then all of a sudden, our attention was called by one of the waiters to see a Stingray in the ocean. Hardly a dull moment at Marguerites!

When the Entrées arrived, I was even more impressed and instantly ready to ‘Dig In’! My gosh, the Lobster Flambè with black truffle risotto looked divine! Then as I was looking at the dish all mesmerized, Cecil the Executive Chef visited the table, greeted us pleasantly and told me that he was adding his sauce consisting of Rum beurre blanc and more, as well as edible sprouts. I could hardly find the words to describe the lobster. Juicy lobster accompanied by an absolutely delicious sauce and risotto. My other half had the Flambé Steak complemented by oxtail ragout. Perfection. Cooked exact to order, medium rare.

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It was hard to leave. An extremely refreshing experience to have all-round excellent service and food. Epicurean to the core. It was definitely worth the drive and I cannot wait to return.

Marguerites Seafood by the Sea

Location: Gloucester Ave. (The Hip Strip), Montego Bay

Ph: 876-952-4777

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How was Restaurant Week Jamaica?!

by FoodpornRestaurant Reviews & RatingsWhat's Hot

Restaurants in the 3 cities were certainly buzzing with diners throughout Restaurant Week (RW) that was held November 13 – 21. Persons were excited to ‘Dig in’, the slogan used for this year’s RW.

Suga was happy to report that all, if not, most of her recommendations were excellent choices based on feedback from Suga bears a.k.a. Suga Lifestyle readers and friends.

Just to highlight a few,

One Love Cafe at Bob Marley’s Museum and Susie’s Bakery & Coffee Bar really satisfied diners for the Nyam and Scram category.

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Lillian’s Restaurant                       Image: RWJ 2015 Index on go-jamaica.com

For the Tasty Category, the UTECH students from Lillian’s Restaurant who seemed to put a lot of effort into their menu, offering unique dishes at a low cost showed that there is a bright future ahead for Jamaica in the Culinary industry.

Lillian’s was delightful. They had a pleasant and attentive waitress, yet not overbearing, as well as helpful staff. Decor was simple yet appropriate and clean, with soft classical music. The Jerked Chicken Chowder and Salt Fish Tostones they served as Appetizers had lovely flavours and the Salad was fresh with a decent serving. Their Main course was enjoyed by all at the table. Generous servings as well. Their Peppercorn Crusted Beef was cooked exactly as ordered, the Cinnamon Braised Pineapple Pork was succulent and not overdone, the Seared Trout and Creamy Chicken Sauté dishes were tasty. Desserts were also very good. Their Rum and Raisin cake, Passion Trifle and Chocolate and Banana Bread Pudding were yummy. Well done Lillian’s!

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Sea Deck           Photo credit: Emile Pitt

Sea Deck had nice, big, tasty servings as usual with decent service.

C & C South Beach Restaurant in the Savoury category got two thumbs up. Their service, food and atmosphere were impressive. Kudos to them for a 10 minute waiting time during RW!

Christopher’s at Hermosa Cove, Ocho Rios was a winner for the Delectable category. No surprise there. Props to Executive Chef Conroy Arnold for sustaining a high standard of food quality and service. The ambience there is just an added plus.

Then of course, with a full review coming soon, Marguerites Seafood by the Sea in Montego Bay took the Epicurean category hands down. Excellent ambience, service and food topped off by a premium selection of wines.

Well done Restaurants, looking forward to next year!

 

 

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Marguerites Seafood by the Sea was Perfection!

by FoodpornRestaurant Reviews & RatingsWhat's Hot

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Review coming soon! If in Kingston, it is worth the drive! If you are in Montego Bay or close by, what are you waiting for?! Make reservations ASAP and don’t miss your chance to Dig In at Marguerites this RW 2015.

Marguerites Seafood by the Sea

Location: Gloucester Ave. (The Hip Strip), Montego Bay

Ph: 876-952-4777

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Mmmmm Savoury! Where to go for RW?!

by FoodpornRestaurant Reviews & RatingsWhat's Hot

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The Savoury Category costs $2800JMD (Includes choice of Appetizer, Main course and Dessert. Beverages, G.C.T and Gratuity additional). 

*Reservations recommended

Caffé Da Vince, which was a success for last year’s RW even with a full house, had delicious food and good service. This year they will have a Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella and tomato in a balance reduction. Oxtail Ravioli, Beef and Pork Tenderloin are on the main, then White chocolate strawberry cheese cake to finish. Imagine, there are lots more dishes on that menu too!

Fromage, always a fave of mine, will be offering Korean BBq Pulled Pork with Asian slaw and fries that should be delightful, as well as their other menu items.

C & C South Beach have really revamped themself this year. They have great choices from Appetizers to Desserts. See their recent review and RW recommendations by clicking on the link below:

C&C South Beach, one of many in the Savoury Category for RWJ!

Beirut Mediterranean Cuisine don’t look too bad this year. Their Chickpea purée with sesame paste lemon juice and olive oil, served with fresh pita bread and their Beirut Mixed Grill with 3 skewers of Beef, Chicken and minced Lamb looks decent.

Gimbilyn Restaurant at Alhambra Inn seems to always be off the radar, but has proven to be a lovely experience, especially last year. Their Fish pocket appetizer looks interesting and they have a wide range of main dishes including Chicken, Pork, Mahi Mahi, Beef and a Vegan option. Their dessert options look fantastic as well, including Plain and Chocolate Cake Rum Lollipops, Cheesecake and a Warm Coffee Bread Pudding that is known to be good.

M-10 should have dishes with a burst of Jamaican flavour. Ackee or Callaloo Quiche to start and Smoked Pork chops or their Fish fillet in coconut sauce to follow? Yum!

What’s sizzling on the North Coast?

Evita’s in Ocho Rios was a winner last year. This year they look like they will please diners with their Jamaican Viagra Conch Fritters. Yes I did say Viagra. Looks like the magic will be in the Chef’s special ‘Jerk’ sauce that it is served with.

Mystic India in Montego Bay seems to be the choice for Indian cuisine this year. They always have sizzling options on a regular basis and their menu will include just that, for instance, Chilli Shrimp, Mutton Sheekh Kebab and Tandoori Chicken. That is just an appetizer!

MoBay is also home to the well known, Pelican Grill and Seahorse Grill. Pelican Grill has good service, tasty food and is always a pleasure to visit. Their Surf and Turf as well as their Grilled Fillet of Steak and Lobster look like excellent options. Seahorse Grill will have Smoked Blue Marlin on toast with herbed cream cheese, Hummus Dip with roasted peppers, kalamata olives and pita points as two of the choices for appetizers. Their Shrimp Saint James with savoury shrimp, simmered in a New Orleans style Creole sauce, with red onion, tomato, red and green peppers, okra and jerk sausage looks like all kinds of goodness. Then there is much more!

Remember you can give your feedback here or go to the Restaurant Week Jamaica 2015 index page, choose the Restaurants and rate them.

Dig In!

Contact information and locations for Restaurants mentioned:

Caffé Da Vinci
Location: Market Place. 67 Constant Spring Rd.
Ph: 876-906-9051

Fromage Gourmet Market
Address: 8 Hillcrest Ave., Kingston 6
Ph#: 876-622-9856

C & C South Beach Restaurant, Sports Bar and Event Venue
Location: 2 Brompton Road. Kingston 5
Ph: 876-630-4571 or 876-630-4163

Beirut Mediterranean Cuisine
Location: Market Place. 67 Constant Spring Road.
Ph: 876-395-7577

Gimbilyn Restaurant at Alhambra Inn
1 Tucker Avenue Kingston, Jamaica
Ph: 876-978-9072

M-10 Bar & Grill
6 Vineyard Road, Kingston 3, Vineyard Town, Kingston.
Ph: 876-930-2112 or 876-815-5644

Evita’s Italian Restaurant
Location: Eden Bower Road (Just up the hill opposite Taj Mahal Shopping Center). Ocho Rios
Ph.: 876-974-233

Mystic India
Location: Whitter Village, Ironshore Montego Bay
Ph: 876-953-9460 / 876-953-0659

Pelican Grill
Location: Gloucester Avenue Strip Montego Bay
Ph: 876-952-3171

Seahorse Grill
Location: MoBay Yacht Club. Freeport. Sunset Drive, Montego Bay
Ph: 876-684-9133