Stop by and have a cold Red Stripe while you enjoy the view or have some Fish any way you like it!
Enjoy the Weekend!
The Longboarder Bar & Grill
Location: Coast Road, Rozelle, St. Thomas. Jamaica.
Ph: 876.427.0408
Open Tues. to Sunday, 12-8pm
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Suga’s Ratings for Mike’s Supper Club
Date and time of visit: Saturday, February 16, 2019 at 9:15pm
No. of diners: 2 adults
NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum
Parking: ★★★★★
Ambience: ★★★★★
Décor: ★★★★★
Comfort: ★★★★★
Service: ★★★★★
Speed: ★★★★★
Food quality: ★★★☆☆
Serving amount: ★★★☆☆
Plating: ★★★★★
Value for $: ★★★☆☆
Suga’s Breakdown:
Mike’s Supper Club at The Trident Hotel had spectacular service and ambience enhanced by rhythmic live jazz, where the band used Trident’s one of a kind Ferrari red 1917 Steinway baby grand piano. Some of the best voices in world, jazz and bop music have left their nightly signature on it.
Beverages were grand, but I can’t say the same about their dishes.
We started things off with Pumpkin Soup and a Goat Cheese Salad. The Pumpkin Soup was probably the largest dish of the night.
The Goat Cheese Salad was quite tasty and flavourful, but our entrees followed and disappointed in that aspect and more. We had the Rack of Lamb and Surf n Turf. Both dishes were extremely small servings. In addition to an already exorbitant cost of US$50 for the Surf and Turf, sides of Vegetables and Starches were additional for US$3 and $US6 respectively before tax and service charge.
To add to the disappointment of small servings, even though our meats were medium rare as requested, the Lamb and Beef lacked proper seasoning and flavour.
The food may not have been value for money, but it was certainly a pleasurable experience.
Mike’s Supper Club at The Trident Hotel
Location: Port Antonio
Ph: 876-633-7100; 1(800) 300-6220
Website (Menu available): www.thetridenthotel.com
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Suga thinks that the Jamaica Rum Festival was a success!
I went on the Saturday at about 3:30pm when the sun was out in full force. Imagine I was planning on going earlier. I was disappointed that the seminar times were posted online so close to the day, so failed to plan for them and missed out on available spots. I am sure it would have enhanced my experience even more, but perhaps something can be done next year that may not involve tastings and patrons can be involved.
I was early enough to get my Festival cup though! This was definitely a perk appreciated by patrons. You got back your entry money with that already.
The entrance décor was as real as it could get, taking you on a walk through the cane fields and the history of Jamaican rums via photos and artefacts. Neat cuts of Sugar cane were given away in small paper bags too.
I wish the mist being provided for the Sugar cane was provided for patrons at certain points throughout the festival too, or fans. The heat was hard to bear. Thankfully after a walk around the venue, picking up rum samples from the different sponsors and seeing what was on offer, Kande’s Delights had their delicious ice cream to cool you down. They gave you combo options to get a moist, salivating cupcake from Alex’s Creations too! Those cupcakes are one of a kind.
I am all for Brand Jamaica, but I think if local artisans are to be involved in the festival, they should have products more aligned with the theme of the festival. Perhaps like Street Food Saturdays who had Pepper sauces. Items that persons like to pair with rum or persons who take a liking to rum are likely to purchase.
The CB Food Village was a disappointment. Firstly, there was no card machine by the general line to get tickets. That should have been standard. I believe Rainforest Seafoods was probably the only option on the inside that you could buy from and use a card.
I understand that after drinking all that rum, the food did not have to be gourmet and got the idea behind mostly fried foods etc. to soak up the rum, but I still felt like options were limited and the quality of food put out was not that enticing. For instance, the quality of Pan Chicken in Manor Park is far better than that offered by the Pan Chicken winner that was present. I believe I made a good decision to get the Pork Fries from Tooksie Kay Catering. I got the Fried Chicken tacos from Chilitos too, but I believe Tooksie Kay was probably the best, if not, one of the best options there.
With all of that aside, how was the Rum and Entertainment?! After all, that is what we were there for. Monymusk was the only disappointment. Why was Monymusk giving people straight shots of whites?! Good Lord. Then they wanted you to pay for slushes with no rum in them. Wheel and come again.
Kudus to the other sponsors, Appleton Estate, Wray & Nephew, Charley’s J.B. Overproof Rum and Hampten Estate for coming up with creative 3oz sampler cocktails and mixes that were free. I enjoyed them. Big up Charley’s J.B. Overproof Rum from Trelawny who came with their Sprat and Bammy to soak up that strong cullo cullo a.k.a John Crow Batty!
Bottles and cues were for sale from the different sponsors as well.
The vibe did nice! Uncle Wray was there to mingle with patrons and so was Aunty Joy, Master Blender from Appleton Estate.
Wray and Nephew did an excellent job with on the spot entertainment, such as mixology competitions. Hosts Sakina Deer and Dufton Shepherd really had the crowd engaged encouraging spontaneous outbursts of laughter.
I thoroughly enjoyed all the performances that I caught. Wayne Marshall, Dance Xpressionz and Aidonia certainly took us through their expansive catalogue of music and dance throughout the years.
Hope Pastures needs to take better care of those dusty grounds and I wish I got prior notice to consider carrying a chair, because once you are there you are likely to stay till the very end! Kudos to the organizers for creating such a memorable, local experience. Looking forward to the next one! #SugaEndorsed
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Are you ready?! The greatly anticipated Jamaica Rum Festival begins tomorrow! A festival that should walk us through the history of Jamaican rums via photos, artefacts and a sensory experience.
Sip Sip Sip! Expect to receive Drink Chits upon entry for your complimentary cocktail and samples from each of the sponsors booths.
Seminars and Workshops hosted by Appleton Estate’s Master Blender, Joy Spence and more start from 12:45pm, where you sign in upon entry once spaces are still available.
The festival should also be showcasing live music, arts and crafts and other Jamaican made products presented by local artisans, powered by the Tourism Enhancement Fund and of course, food.
Patrons will experience the Jamaica Rum Festival Food Court offered by sponsor, CB Foods!
What have you been waiting for? Get your tickets today!
For more information:
Website: www.jarumfestival.com/
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Suga’s Ratings for Cliff Hanger Restaurant and Lounge
Date and time of visit: Sunday, February 17, 2019 at 12:00pm
No. of diners: 2 adults
NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum
Parking: ★★★★★
Ambience: ★★★★★
Décor: ★★★★☆
Comfort: ★★★★★
Service: ★★★★☆
Speed: ★★★★☆
Food quality: ★★★★☆
Serving amount: ★★★★☆
Plating: ★★★☆☆
Value for $: ★★☆☆☆
Suga’s Breakdown:
From the hillside to the sea, diners can experience the best of both worlds, while seated at Cliff Hanger’s rustic and comfortable Restaurant and Lounge.
My husband and I received hospitable service and our food arrived in a timely manner. Afterall, we ordered the Drunken Lion Fish and would not want that process to be rushed. What made it drunken? The sauce consisted of Red Stripe Beer, White Rum and Red Wine.
All three spirits were evident in the Drunken Lion Fish sauce and the dish was quite tasty. I am afraid it was not value for money though. For the Lion Fish dish ($27USD) and a Cocktail ($7.50USD), the damage ended up being a little over $6000JMD per person, i.e. $12,157.82 for the both of us after G.C.T and Service charge were added, which is far too expensive. Suga suggests they provide a local rate for their menu.
Cliff Hanger Restaurant and Lounge
Location: Ross Craig, Long Bay P.O. Portland, JA
Ph: 876-860-1395
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.seacliff-jamaica.com/
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Two Saturdays ago I had lunch at Kanopi House, Portland that is nestled in 100ft banyan trees with a breathtaking view of the Blue Lagoon.
There weren’t many options on the menu, so my husband and I went with Chicken and Fish sliders with a side of freshly made potato chips.
Service was quick and the staff was courteous. The food was pricey, so thankfully it was tasty too. With that view and comfort, why complain though?
A small bar was available to get spirits from as well.
Of course, nothing is too predictable in the relaxed parish of Portland. The menu varies from day-to-day and I was told by one of their Chefs, Cecile Watt that items on their dinner menu have an Asian twist. Perhaps we will try them for dinner when we go back to that side of our beautiful island.
Kanopi House
Location: Blue Lagoon, San San, Port Antonio (7-10mins away from Blue Lagoon)
Ph: 876.632.3213
US: Â 800.790.7971
UK (London): 0203.318.1191
Canada: 416.800.9157
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.kanopihouse.com
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
It’s been a long time coming, but I finally made the trek to Street Food Saturdays. Was it worth it? Not really, but I went for the experience nonetheless.
The Menu
Persons like myself and my husband who go with the intention to try different dishes may be disappointed. We were not given the option to mix meats even when requested and the plates were small, especially for the prices. I hardly eat Pork, but wanted to taste their Smoked Pork Belly. That taste cost me $2,000JMD. It was succulent and crackling, but a bit too salty.
The event was filled with patrons. Thankfully they had good crowd control. The wait for food wasn’t long and even though you couldn’t get all your food options at one station, they seemed to have a good system going. ‘Chefs Dwight and Celine’ were on Meats, and Chef Simone Walker-Barrett with her assistants were on Seafood, with her added special of Jerked Lamb Chops.
It was a hot day. They had seating under tents, but my husband and I scoped out a table down by the river that was much cooler with more scenic surroundings.
The Rosemary Pan Chicken was nothing to write home about, but the Tangerine and Guava sauces provided were tasty and complemented the meats well.
The greatly anticipated Lobster Pasta was not visually appealing. A small serving of lobster on some cheesy elbow macaroni was served to others, so we passed on that.
This finally brings me to the good stuff. The Jerked Fish was seasoned to perfection and accompanied by tasty Parmesan Polenta.
Chef Simone Walker-Barrett’s Special was indeed special. The Jerked Lamb Chops were savoury.
After we finished our lunch, there was nothing that kept us interested to stay, so we made it back home in time to watch the Gibson Relays. I think the event has the potential to be better; maybe some entertainment or a farmer’s market. We enjoyed our meals, but it was an underwhelming experience based on the marketing of the event and it was not value for money. It was marketed as wood fire gourmet, but although the quality of some of the dishes was good, there was nothing signature about them, with regard to presentation or taste. After a long drive we spent $8,400JMD for street food, with walk up service, in an outdoor setting. Sorry Suga Bears, this event is not #SugaEndorsed.
Street Food Saturdays
Location: Mount James District; Golden Spring
Ph: 876-414-0016; 876-313-0735; 876-395-3614
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @streetfoodsaturdays
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
I had a quick, satisfying lunch at Bella’s Vegan Eats with my husband, Randy last Friday at a neat spot tucked away on Windsor Avenue off Old Hope Road.
Bella’s Vegan Eats was prompt if you would like to pick up and has comfortable seating for you to have a quick bite for lunch. Even if it’s a hot day, the trees make the area cool and the picnic table umbrellas provide sufficient shade.
The area was clean, parking was hassle-free and service came with a smile. Haleem Card, Executive Chef and Director/Co-owner of Bella’s Vegan Eats made us feel right at home. Note that Haleem was the 2015 recipient of the Observer Food Awards’ Chef on the Rise.
What’s their Menu like?!
Their menu is fully Vegan, but still pleasing to the palate if you’re not Vegan. The menu changes daily with options of Soup, Wraps, Sandwiches, Chana Masala, Pasta and more, plus freshly made juices, Smoothies and even Dessert. The people’s favourite seems to be their Umami Black Bean Burger ($1200JMD).
I had the Coconut Chana Masala. I am not a fan of Coconut milk, especially since it has a high content of Saturated fat, but they used it lightly and it did not overpower the taste at all. I had it with plantain, a tasty raw vegetable salad and Peanut rice! The Peanut rice was a pleasant surprise and definitely increased the fiber content of the meal.
Main dishes are usually $750JMD, with an additional charge of $250JMD for side options. Their Natural Fruit Juices, that are low in sugar come in two sizes, the 12oz for $400JMD and 16oz for $650JMD. I had the what’s Up Doc a.k.a Carrot Juice that was light in consistency and quite refreshing.
Remember Suga’s Nutrition Session is this Saturday! If you missed the first one, try to make time for this one. Bella’s Vegan Eats was definitely added to the ‘Places to Eat’ List. They are #SugaEndorsed.
Bella’s Vegan Eats
Location: 6 Windsor Ave. Kingston. Ja.
Ph: 876-455-8804
*Delivery available by Quick Plate
Open Mon-Fri., 11am – 4pm
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Follow the food and the flavour! Head up to Street Food Saturdays hosted by Chef Simone Walker-Barrett by Mount James District, Golden Spring, St. Andrew tomorrow any time from 12-6pm! There will be quite a variety, so there should be something to satisfy any craving you may have.
Garlic Lobster Pasta is back on the menu!
 For more Information:
Call/Whatsapp: 876-414-0016; 876-313-0735; 876-395-3614
Email: [email protected]
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
By popular demand for those who missed out on the 1st staging of Suga Lifestyle’s Nutrition Seminar in January, there will be another one next Saturday, March 2nd at The Liguanea Club, New Kingston from 12:30pm – 2:30pm at a subsidised cost of $2500JMD.
The session will feature detailed Diet Tips, tutoring on how to shop in the supermarket, reading Food Labels, designing Exercise and Meal Plans, Recipes, tips on where to Eat and more!
***Space is limited***
To REGISTER:
Call: 876.422.3769
Email: [email protected]
By: Gabrielle Burgess (Certified Personal Trainer & Sports Nutritionist)
If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.