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Jerk ‘Everythang’ Today at 2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar off Ruthven Road!

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Have you ever been to 2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar on Strathairn Avenue off Ruthven Road? If not, now is your chance.

TGIF! Every Last Friday starting Today, 2wo A Seafood will have Jerked meat for you to eat! There will be locally sourced Rabbit, Chicken, Fish and Pork for affordable prices with Drink Specials.

I was treated to a tasty, complimentary Fish Tea at my first visit to 2wo A Seafood last December. It was a Thursday night when they usually have Live Performances.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Japanese duo, DJs Ackee and Saltfish who have been in Jamaica since 1994. They should give Rankin Pumpkin on Magnum Kings & Queens of Dancehall a few tips.

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Gabby from Suga Lifestyle sandwiched between Japanese DJs Ackee & Saltfish, who called her their Dumpling. (Photo taken  – December 22, 2016)

Waitresses were pleasant and Drinks were very reasonable. For instance, a cue of White rum costed $800JMD, a cue of V/X, $1000JMD and a cue of Johnnie Walker Black, $1200JMD.

Although the Fish took a little while, as it is cooked to order, I recommend their Signature Jerk Fish ($1300JMD/lb), which had a tantalising flavour.

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2wo A Seafood’s Signature Jerk Fish ($1300JMD/lb)

2wo A Seafood has cosy seating and a garden atmosphere with small palms and intricate lighting by the Entertainment area. Patrons also assemble by the bar that has both high stools and comfortable barrel-chair seating.

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Give 2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar a visit tonight and Enjoy!

2wo A Seafood Restaurant and Bar

Location: 2A Strathairn Avenue (Off Ruthven Road)

Ph: 876-803-3290

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this Promo and Review, follow Suga Lifestyle or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

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Hard Rock Cafe’s Grand Opening is this Saturday in Montego Bay!

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Don’t miss the Historic Grand Opening Party for Hard Rock Cafe in Montego Bay this Weekend!

There will be Live Performances by Ky-Mani Marley, Etana and Ikaya.

There will also be two other events on the same weekend, Let’s Funk and Revel. See information below for the entertaining weekend of 3 events and 1 venue!

Suga visited the new Hard Rock Cafe a few weekends ago and loved it! It is located beside the well known Secrets Resorts and Spa with adequate parking.

The place has been fully refurbished and has great bar and tv logistics for sports lovers and bar patrons.

For those who love to go out and have a good time, there was Live Entertainment on the Saturday night that I visited.

I didn’t get to have their food but I have heard rave reviews from Suga Bears. Their drinks however are strong! Leave it up to their bartenders and you will be buzzed all night.

I wish there was one in Kingston. Until then, looking forward to more visits to the Hard Rock Cafe!

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By: Gabrielle Burgess

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There’s a New Restaurant in Town with Jamaican Cuisine

Suga Bear, Randy Burgess heard about a new Restaurant in town about 2 months ago. He decided to visit a few weeks ago for lunch on Friday, May 5th at about 2pm.

The entrance was not too visible but parking was sufficient with a spacious, open lot.

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He was pleased with the comfortable indoor and outdoor seating area. They have a neat bear set up as well.

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They specialise in Jamaican cuisine and there was a range of options on their menu. Appetizers such as Soup of the Day ($200-$600JMD), Stamp ‘n’ Go ($450JMD) and Red Herring ($550JMD) were available.

Apart from the Charcoals Jerked Chicken ($650JMD), Grilled Chicken ($800JMD), Jerk Pork ($950JMD), Wraps and Curried Goat ($850JMD), items were priced at $1000JMD or more. For instance, Oxtail & Bean for $1350JMD, Curried Shrimp ($2500JMD) and Fish cooked how you like it for $1700JMD.

Vegan Options such as a Three Bean Stew, Vegan Medley Quinoa and more were offered at costs ranging from $1000JMD to $1700JMD.

They offer an option for Dessert and side orders were the standard Festival, Roast Yam, Roast Sweet Potato, Plantain, Bammy and Ground provisions at an additional cost.

Randy ordered the Charcoals Jerked Chicken and was not very impressed. The taste of the Chicken didn’t blow him away but it was decent enough. Although it lacked spice, he could taste the charcoal-grill flavour. He wasn’t happy with the rice and peas that was on the dry side and too much was served. This is the case with many other Restaurants. The correct balance in servings needs to be considered.

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Charcoals Jerked Chicken – $650JMD

Randy appreciated their quick and efficient service but did not think their prices were equivalent to what they were offering.

Nonetheless, they have recently opened and it is a spacious, comfortable spot with Jamaican Cuisine. Feel free to check them out and offer your feedback.

Charcoals & Flame

Location: 9 West Kings House Road. Kingston, Jamaica

Ph: (876) 382-7336

Facebook: @charcoals.flame

Opening Hours: 12pm – 8pm

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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Lunch on the Seaside in Hopewell, Hanover

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Randy Burgess (L) and wife, Gabrielle Burgess from Suga Lifestyle celebrating their 1 year anniversary

Sunday before last, I visited Smoked Marlin Restaurant in Hopewell, Hanover for lunch with my husband.

Apart from our traditional Sweet Potato Pudding stop in Priory, St. Ann, Smoked Marlin was our last stop after a relaxed, food-filled weekend in Negril before heading back to Kingston.

Our waitress was pleasant but could have been more attentive. The wait for food including the Appetizer of Fish soup was too long. The diners that ordered just after us complained as well.

The food was tasty but did not blow us away. Servings were sizeable and made up for the delay. We had a little space left for Dessert, but they did not have all the items listed on the menu including the Tropical Crêpe that I desired.

I thought it would be a more impressive visit, but it was still a delightful experience with a picturesque seaside view to up the ante.

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Marlin Salad – $900JMD +tx (Top); Oxtail Ragu – $1900JMD +tx (Bottom Left); Seafood Linguine with shrimp & fish – $1900JMD +tx (Bottom right)

Date of visit: 30/4/17

Time: 3:45pm

NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum

Parking: ★★★★★

Ambience: ★★★★★

Décor: ★★★★☆

Comfort: ★★★★★

Service: ★★★☆☆

Speed: ★★☆☆☆

Food quality: ★★★★☆

Serving amount: ★★★★★

Plating: ★★★★☆

Value for $: ★★★★☆

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Smoked Marlin Restaurant

Location: Main Street. Hopewell, Hanover

Ph: 876-609-4181

Opening Hours: 12pm-9pm

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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Suga’s Visit to Jen’s Kitchen for Jamaican Cuisine

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Pick Up Saltfish and Plantain ($800JMD)

I stumbled upon Jen’s Kitchen on Instagram a few months ago when I saw a Curry Goat and roti dish. I have been following @jenskitchenja ever since and I admire that their Instagram page is kept active.

Jen’s Kitchen is located at the intersection of Constant Spring and Manning’s Hill Road.

My husband and a friend went there on separate occasions. They had the Curry Goat with roti and Chicken. Their feedback was that the food was decent but mediocre in quality, small in serving size and definitely not worth the price.

Jen’s Kitchen’s pictures on Instagram were still quite inviting to me, so I finally went there at about 7pm on my way home last night. The lack of sufficient parking space was a problem. I was going to just have everything as take-out because I knew I would have to move my car soon.

The Restaurant is a simple set up with a Bar on the side. Nothing extravagant. Your view is basically the Road and The Total Gas Station across from it.

At the looks of it, their Bar had a set of loyal patrons and they had two gentlemen dining that seemed to be visiting Jamaica based on their American accents. They probably wanted some home cooked Jamaican food too.

I perused the expensive Menu and had an interest in the Fish, Stew Peas, Saltfish and Plantain.

I was told a couple orders were in so my order would take 20 minutes or longer. The Stew Peas had finished so I asked about the Fish. Based on the lady’s expression when I asked about the waiting time for the Steamed Fish, I figured that it may take probably half an hour to 45 minutes. Fish is Done to Order how you like it. However, I think $2000JMD was too much for a Steamed Fish and I did not have the time to wait too long. I tried the Fish Fillet for $700JMD instead and still went ahead with the Pick-up Saltfish and Plantain.

As expected, I was called to move my car. I decided to stay and eat afterwards since I got a more comfortable spot, though still blocking in a few persons.

I met Ms. Jen who definitely showed she was in charge. She was professional and accommodating. The lady who took my order and served me was personable as well. I felt comfortable and could see why the patrons at the Bar looked like they were at their home away from home.

The Fish Fillet ($700JMD) was fried in a batter, but I tasted too much flour. I let them put that in a box to go.

The Pick up Saltfish and Plantain ($800JMD) was tasty but I have had better for much less. For instance at JoJo’s Jerk Pit and More, where they spice it up with more pepper and have less tomatoes. The Pressed Plantain was an appetizing side. I appreciated that it was not greasy at all.

Other items on their Menu are part of Standard Jamaican cuisine and more. Costs that include G.C.T range from $550JMD to $2000JMD. To give you an idea, they include Stew Beef ($750JMD), Curry Goat ($900JMD), Tripe & Bean ($750JMD), Oxtail ($1400JMD), Curry Chicken (Small- $600JMD; Large- $800JMD), 1/4lb Jerk Pork ($550JMD), Curry Conch ($1800JMD), Curry Shrimp ($1800JMD), Crab Back ($1500JMD) etc.

They have Side Orders of Roti, Sweet Potato Fries, Cream Potato, Wedges and more for additional costs.

I would return, but I agree with my husband and friend. For the serving size, quality of food and general comparison to many other establishments, the food is decent but overpriced.

Jen’s Kitchen

Location: 1A Mannings Hill Road. Kingston 8. Jamaica

Ph: 876-826-6153

Opening Hours: Mondays-Thursdays 11am-10pm; Fridays 11am-12am; Saturdays 12pm-10pm

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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TGIF! Cellar 8 has Revived their Menu!

Suga and a friend visited Cellar 8 in Manor Park two Saturdays ago for GNO talk over dinner.

I arrived a few minutes before her at 6:15pm and their Mixologist, one of my faves, Milton greeted and seated me. He was his usual courteous self and started me off with my cue of Johnny Walker. He then took the time out to make me aware of various changes to their menu. He made me want to try everything! He also told me that he will have a Johnny Walker Mojito in the mix for me soon.

New Appetizers

There are now Pork Belly Tacos ($1400JMD) and Shrimp Tacos ($1400JMD). A nice addition to their Signature Oxtail Tacos that we love.

They have added a Charcuterie Plate ($2200JMD) for sharing that is great for a group with a few glasses of vino.

In addition to their tasty Crab dip, they now have Bacon & Cheddar, Spinach & Cheese and Artichoke Dips for $1500JMD.

My friend had their new delightful and flavourful, Seafood Bisque.

I had the spiced and breaded fresh Calamari with Chilli sauce ($1400JMD). For those who love pepper, it was tasty and quite spicy!

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Spiced & breaded fresh Calamari with Chilli sauce ($1400JMD)

New Salads, Pizza, Sides

They now have a Lobster Salad. You would have to ask your server for availability and price.

There is a Going Green Pizza ($1400JMD) with spinach, red onion, cranberry, tomatoes, bell pepper and roasted garlic that sounds both healthy and savoury.

Spiced fresh Quinoa and more have been added to their Side Order offers ($500JMD).

New Entrees

I am happy that they have replaced the Basa with the Catch of the Day Grilled or Blackened with the Chef’s special spices ($1850JMD).

There is a Surf and Turf ($3500JMD) Filet Mignon and Grilled Shrimp, Pork Tenderloin ($2400JMD), Fire Grilled Flank Steak ($2200JMD) and more!

I had an old favourite, the Herb Crusted Grilled New Zealand Lamb Chops ($2400JMD). I was asked how I liked it and got how I liked it. It was tender, juicy and medium rare. Delish.

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Herb Crusted Grilled New Zealand Lamb Chops ($2400JMD)

My friend is expecting and was settled with the Soup, but of course disappointed that she could not have alcoholic drinks. Milton took care of her and whipped up a refreshing Peach Cocktail that she enjoyed.

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Dr. Rachelle Shirley Walcott about to enjoy her Peach Cocktail by Cellar 8’s Mixologist, Milton Wisdom

All prices quoted have an additional G.C.T and 5% service charge, that is increased for groups of 10 or more. So Cellar 8 is indeed pricey but delivers with great food and consistently, excellent service.

When it gets late and more people arrive, the tables are a bit too close for comfort though. Conversations of course get louder with drinks and depending on where you are sitting, getting out of your seat may be a bit of a challenge. They have started to seat persons outside but I believe they should cut off once inside is full. Persons have expressed not feeling comfortable or safe dining or having drinks beside the ATM machine with their belongings exposed.

Suga encourages you to still visit Cellar 8, a spectacular weekend spot but ensure that you call and book your table prior to going.

Enjoy the Weekend!

Cellar 8 Wine Bar

Location: Shop 10, Upper Manor Park Plaza

Ph: 876-613-5934

Opening Hours: Tuesdays-Sundays, 4pm-11pm

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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#tbt to my Lunch from C&C South Beach!

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My Stew Peas lunch for only $650JMD from C&C South Beach last Friday was divine! Get yours tomorrow. If you are not having it there you can call early and order for pick up. Mine was ready and waiting for me when I got there. Good service.

Kudos to South Beach. See you soon!

C&C South Beach Restaurant, Bar & Event Venue

Location: 2 Brompton Road. Kingston 5

Ph: 876-919-3700

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this blog, follow Suga Lifestyle or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

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#tbt to this Steamaz from 100!

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Steamed Fish ($2000JMD)

A few weeks ago I had the Steamed Fish from 100 that came with mashed potatoes, vegetables and water crackers. Some more pepper was needed but it was satisfying nonetheless.

Since the Olympics last summer, the service and food at 100 has really improved and I now enjoy going, especially to watch sports on the biggest HDTV Video Wall on the Island.

Suga endorses 100 for Super Bowl LI!

100

Location: 100 Hope Road. Kingston 6
Ph: 876.665-3BET (3238)
Instagram: 100hoperoad
Facebook: 100 Hope Road

By: Gabrielle Burgess

If you liked this promo, follow Suga Lifestyle or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

 

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Suga hopes Saffron made a New Year’s Resolution for better Service

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Despite a great amount of negative feedback about Saffron last year, my friends visiting Jamaica chose to go to Saffron for lunch over the holidays so I decided not to complain and to just go with the flow.

After a 45-minute wait for our food and an inattentive waitress, someone who seemed like a floor supervisor came over and asked if we were ok. The response was obvioisly ‘no’. We expressed how long our wait was. I do not recall an apology. If one was made it may have been a nonchalant one. However, he said he would look into it. Our food arrived about 10 minutes later.

At that point, hunger could have clouded our judgement but the quality of the food seemed mediocre and was nothing to write home about.

I saw no reason for such a long wait and we weren’t given a reason either. The restaurant was half empty in the middle of the day on Friday, December 23rd.

Their partner Restaurant, Tamarind in Orchid Plaza, Barbican gets much better reviews so I will revisit there in due time. Look out for their review on Tamarind Continental soon though.

I hope Saffron improves this year especially with their service.

Saffron Indian Restaurant

Location: Shop 37. Market Place. 67 Constant Spring Road. Kingston 

Ph: 876-926-6598; 876-906-2496

By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Haven’t stocked up on Liquor yet? Check out Jamaica Liquor Warehouse!

Jamaica Liquor Warehouse at Lindsay Crescent is the place to go!

They opened a few weeks ago and have affordable liquor for you in all sizes. Yes Johnny Walker Black is sold by the cue there too!

They have a Bar and a Deli that you can walk over to. Suga went last week Saturday and ordered food, browsed in the liquor store then ate.

The staff were very cordial. Food came out in an adequate time. I was salivating at their Chicken and Waffles from one of their Instagram posts, a Warehouse favourite. Apparently it had shrimp too. The spicy maple syrup was everything.

Golden brown Waffles and Crispy Chicken Tenders and Shrimp ($1850)

My husband had the Warehouse Burger that was cooked to order, medium. Well done Chef.

The Warehouse Burger served on an over easy egg ($1400)

Comfortable seating, decent, modern décor and pleasant staff in both the Warehouse and the Deli who gave good service.

They do Breakfast too but may need to be open earlier for those on their way to work.

Suga will be back for sure.

Jamaica Liquor Warehouse, Deli & Bar

Location: 17 Lindsay Crescent, Kingston

Ph: 876-614-7011

Opening hours for Warehouse: Fridays & Saturdays: 10am to 11pm; Mondays to Thursdays 11am-10pm.

Opening hours for Deli: Fridays-Saturdays: 8am-11pm; Mondays-Thursdays: 8am-10pm

By: Gabrielle Burgess
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