Sugar Mill Restaurant has your Prime Cuts of Meat! Happy Hump Day!

Diane and Brandt Williams with Gabby and Randy Burgess at Sugar Mill Restaurant of Half Moon Resort, Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica in January 2023.

Steak, Veal, Lamb Chops, you name it, Sugar Mill Restaurant by Half Moon Resort (Ig: @halfmoonJamaica), Montego Bay has got the best, most succulent, prime cuts for you along with excellent service.

They check all the boxes.

Huge, more than satisfactory servings along with an epicurean experience, giving you value for money.

Suga revisited earlier this year and Sugar Mill Restaurant by Half Moon Resort remains #SugaEndorsed.

#Satisfaction

By: Gabrielle Burgess (CEO, Suga Lifestyle)

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Why Buzo Jamaica may be Best New or Ethnic Restaurant this Year

I celebrated my Anniversary on April 30 at Buzo Jamaica Italian Restaurant (Ig: @buzo.jamaica) by Park Close, NHT and it did not disappoint!

Outstanding Décor and ambience, well uniformed and hospitable, courteous Staff, effective use of technology for reservations, a central Location, sufficient Parking, commendable Service, impressive Cocktails, varied Menu Options and most importantly, high quality Food and Dessert.

Suga went for an Italian experience, ordering Portobello Mushroom, Carpaccio di Manzo (beef), Squid ink Tagliatelline, Tagliolini pasta with smoked Salmon, finishing with Torta di Lava Caldo al Ciocilatto (Flourless Chocolate Lava Cake, Vanilla bean Gelato and Raspberry reduction) and Tiramisu’ Gelato.

Watch “Why Buzo Jamaica may be Best New or Ethnic Restaurant this Year” on YouTube here:

https://youtube.com/shorts/E_uEBgdTdyc?feature=share

I still give Delmare at Half Moon Jamaica the edge. Though both restaurants have a different vibe, I prefer the versatility of outstanding Seafood and Italian dishes by Delmare, knowledge of the wait staff, the ambience of their seaside dining and being able to order and enjoy a classic Tiramisu.

Great experience at Buzo though. I definitely recommend it for special occasions. #SugaEndorsed.

For Best New Restaurant, consistency is key and besides an Easter holiday when short staffed, persons have reported mixed reviews to Suga from 7/10 – to 10/10.

Subpar Ratings tended to be a result of being a bit disappointed after high expectations (though what you order highly contributes to that perception), value for money or comparisons from persons who have actually been to Italy and enjoyed authentic Italian cuisine.
Thanks Suga Tasters Taraja Jackson, Kimberly Calder and more!

Buzo Jamaica had the most buzz with the anticipation of its opening, where they actually opened during that period of anticipation. There was also difficulty to make reservations in opening weeks due to full capacity. Whether they delivered after that buzz, may still be debatable by the majority.

We must remember other Ethnic restaurants such as Orchid Thai (Ig: @orchidthaijamaica) that have emerged onto our culinary circuit in the past year, New restaurants, Palate and ROKstone at ROK Hotel Kingston (Ig: @rokhotelkingston) and a few more casual, affordable restaurants.

#SugaSnaps to the continuous rise of our Restaurant scene.

By: Gabrielle Burgess (CEO, Suga Lifestyle)

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Best and Most Affordable Japanese Restaurant in Ja Right Now

Gabby Burgess, Kimario Rose-Stewart and Gillian Jackson last Friday at Koi Sushi Restaurant on Hillcrest Avenue.

Throwback Thursday (#tbt) to Lunch with the Girls at Koi Sushi (Ig: @koisushija), above Fromage Gourmet Market at 8 Hillcrest Road.

All Boxes Checked
– Good Service
– Everthing Tastes Delish
– Decent Ambience
– Fantastic Cocktails
– Sumptuous Dessert
– Affordable and Value for Money

Calamari starter – tender, not cliché crispy

Umi Salmon Poke Bowl – just eat it with your eyes

The Haru Roll – a Peppa Swims on the beach experience

Shrimp Fried Rice – Totally worth the Carbs

Passion Fruit Cheesecake – say less

Pineapple Lychee Drink – Hello Summer & Thank You Koi Sushi!

By: Gabrielle Burgess (CEO, Suga Lifestyle)

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TGIF! Where Are You Heading this Weekend?

Suga with a Pineapple Lychee Drink from Koi Sushi. Loved it!

Suga is starting off the Birthday Weekend at Koi Sushi on Hillcrest Avenue with the Girls. Tomorrow is the Day though 🙂

Have a Great Weekend!

By: Gabrielle Burgess (CEO, Suga Lifestyle)

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Happy Hump Day! What’s for Lunch Today?

Teriyaki Time (Ig: @teriyakitimeja) certainly delivers and hits the spot!

Had the Teriyaki Chicken a few weeks ago. It was delish! Love the light Sauce on it.
Their steamed Japanese-style dumplings are spicy too!

Check out Teriyaki Time today!

By: Gabrielle Burgess (CEO, Suga Lifestyle)

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Fling Back Friday to Restaurant Week Ja At One Of Our Faves Mystic Thai!

With a quick road trip out of town to Montego Bay last Saturday for business, Mustic Thai (Ig: @mystic_thai_jamaica) was a must stop for me and hubby, Randy.

We didn’t order from their regular menu as their Restaurant week menu was tempting enough and we wanted to participate.

Staff were courteous and Service was smooth as usual.

Randy started off with the marinated shallow fried Shrimp tossed in Basil Chilli Garlic sauce. The Shrimps were plump, tasty, with a tempered heat balanced out with herbs.

I enjoyed the juicy, tender, spicy honey glazed Pork belly Skewers.

Our Mains were the usual authentic Asian and satisfying high quality dishes enhanced by their Curry and Sauce.

I had the steamed Fish Fillet with quinoa and a yellow curry instead of the lemon chilli cilantro sauce and Randy had the Five Spice Chicken with spicy plum sauce, greens and spicy, Thai herbed fried rice.

Dessert was pleasantly interesting. Cinnamon flavoured Grilled Pineapple with homemade Coconut & Jaggery Ice Cream. Delish! #SugaSnaps

Opening a Restaurant in Kingston is always a challenge, but no matter the delay, whenever it happens, we are ready.
Cheers to a consistently high standard of service, ethnic cuisine and comfort. #SugaEndorsed

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Founder/Owner, Suga Lifestyle)

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TGIF and Cheers from Tacbar!

I know I took a while to visit this one Suga fam, but from Suga Taster reports, I wasn’t quite pulled in yet.

I visited on a GNO mid August. We had the Tacbar Platter (any 8 tacos for J$3950). We chose the Ahi Tuna, Oxtail, Shrimp and Lobster Tacos.

The Ahi Tuna Taco needed a tasty, spicy balsamic vinaigrette.

I’m not sure why crushed chips were in the Oxtail Taco, but it was an unwelcomed crunch for me, not a hit. Like most folks, I prefer my Oxtail tender and boneless without that texture.

The Shrimp Taco was bland without the lime they provided with it. So definitely added that splash of lime.

The Lobster Taco was the best selection for us, but why put crumbled feta in it to overpower the Lobster? The taste of Lobster can be easily overpowered and feta is known for it’s sharp, pungent taste.

Anyhow, I love Chef Haleem Card’s food, but I was a bit disappointed. Perhaps they may have been a bit overwhelmed in the kitchen by the fact that it was Heineken’s Bar hopping series night. But kudos to them for still keeping a high quality of service by the restaurant. Those ladies were awesome and the music and vibes were fantastic.

It’s still Chilitos for me for authentic Mexican, but I will revisit.

Have a great weekend!

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Founder/Owner, Suga Lifestyle)

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Suga Finally Revisited 22 Jerk since their Opening Week…

Suga Finally Revisited 22 Jerk (Ig:@22jerk) on Barbican road since their Opening Week.

I wasn’t blown away by the quality of the food, but I was indeed satisfied. They are generous with the side of plantains too, an entire plate.

I hear there are good and well, ‘not so good’ days there. Probably depends on who’s behind the fire.

Decent, comfortable open air spot with sufficient parking to grab a quick Lunch or Dinner and a drink though.

Big up Hillary for her great service. She will take care of you. I shall return.

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Founder/Owner, Suga Lifestyle)

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Cheers to Halfway Post Holiday from the New Nirvanna Global!

Low Calorie Cocktails?! What? 🍹Peach Whiskey Smash (150cal 😉)

Suga’s Ratings for Nirvanna Global International Bar and Grill
Date and time of visit: Sunday, April 10, 2022 at 7:45pm
No. of diners: 2
NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum
Parking: ★★★★★
Ambience: ★★★★☆
Décor: ★★★☆☆
Comfort: ★★★★★
Service: ★★★★★
Speed: ★★★★★
Food quality: ★★★★☆
Serving amount: ★★★★★
Plating: ★★★★☆
Value for $: ★★★★★

Suga’s Breakdown: 

As we transition fully to outside and face to face especially post long holiday weekend, many of us may be TIRED. But alas, a new weekend approaches quickly and so does the opportunity to visit a new restaurant!

As a part of the Nirvanna trilogy which began on Lady Musgrave road in 2015, we now have Nirvanna Global in Progressive Plaza, Barbican!

Suga visited for dinner 2 Sundays ago and I’m impressed! No extravant décor, simple yet modern with pleasant staff superb service and an experienced Bartender!

I would place Nirvanna in the middle of the trilogy, considering Nirvanna Indian more formal and Masala Wok, casual. However, in terms of the range offered on the menu for international cuisine, it is not comparable to the others.

Reasonable prices, comfortable dining and a relaxed bar setting with ‘Chin’ the Bartender (who is not Chinise fyi) serving up quality drinks by a large tv with the NBA Playoffs is a vibe.

Anyhow, check out what we enjoyed, cooked exactly as we ordered from our on point server, Vish.

🍴Jerk Spiced Calamari with spicy guacamole

🍴Classic Onion Rings with sriracha sour cream dip

🍴Lemon Grilled Salmon with citrus marinade, basmati rice, seasonal salad

🍴Shrimp Pesto Fettuccine with mushrooms

👌🏾Happy to see the high standard maintained across the trilogy.

Visit Nirvanna Global (Ig: @nirvannaglobalja)! The menu is posted on their Instagram page highlights. #SugaEndorsed

Nirvanna Global International Bar and Grill

Location: 24 Barbican Road. Shop #7-8 (Progressive Plaza). Kingston. Jamaica

Ph: 876-672-9644; 876-801-4703

Instagram: @nirvannaglobalja

*Closed on Mondays* *Open at 12 noon; Kitchen closes at 9:30pm*

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Founder/Owner, Suga Lifestyle)

If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter & TikTok (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.

Mystic Thai: One Night in Kingston?!

When Mystic Thai comes to Kingston, foodies unite! (L-R) Le Cordon Bleu Paris Graduate & Blogger, Craig Fleming, Blogger, Vanessa Lalasingh, Owners of Suga Lifestyle, Gabrielle and Randy Burgess with Suga Taster, Ashleigh Arnold.

Last Saturday at Jamaica Food + Drink Kitchen (Ig: @jafoodanddrinkkitchen), a bit over 30 guests had the pleasure of experiencing a Night in Thailand with Mystic Thai (Ig: @mystic_thai_jamaica) coming in from Montego Bay, Select Brands (Ig: @selectbrandsja) and Debra Taylor-Smith a.k.a Wine Lady Debra (Ig: @wineladydebra).

It’s what you would call a precursor to Mystic Thai coming to Kingston! Yes, you read right. Mystic Thai will be opening a higher end version of their restaurant some time within the next 6 to 8 months. Envision Sea Bass and Steaks prepared by a mix of new Chefs coming from India, while you are surrounded by the finest of Thai décor. Can’t wait!


In the mean time, we had the delight of being taken through 7 courses with the most interesting, some shocking, but tantalizing pairings presented by Wine Lady Debra of Select Brands.

Let Suga take you through!

The Beefeater Gin Cocktail was a bold welcome, tempered by Lemongrass that got guests buzzing, catching up after not seeing each other for a little while, then eventually seated with anticipation for what the rest of the evening had to offer.

Then BOOM came an unexpected shot of Stone’s Ginger Wine topped with Torresella Prosecco paired with Tom Kha Soup! A Ginger Mimosa Shot that got us off to a fast, but great start. The rich, creamy coconut flavour of the Soup was amazing by the way.

The Papaya Salad Wraps paired with Rosé cooled things down a bit with delicate flavours and well-rounded acidity.

One of my faves, the Kung Fu Girl Riesling followed to pair with the Mystic Dragon Roll, where its flavours were even more enhanced by a homemade pepper sauce that was offered. It took a little while for Kung Fu Girl to grow on those who were just introduced, as she is on the dry side, but hints of citrus and white peach perhaps made them appreciate her more as they sipped in between bites.

Truffle Infused Pad Thai Chicken paired with a California Cline Gewurtztraminer definitely spiced up the night again! Pun intended. Wow. I enjoyed that pairing thoroughly.

The highlight if the night for me then arrived.

GREEN CURRY SALMON with Hahn PINOT NOIR…What?! “Life is too short”, said Wine Lady Debra.
It is indeed. Naturally a Creamy or Lemon Sauce, or even a Salsa topping on Salmon would pair well with a Traditional White Wine, but I applaud this chance taken.
It was a HIT for ME. BRAVO…YOLO.

Crispy Sesame Lamb paired with a Malbec followed. It was tasty, but the small cuts of Lamb were unfortunately overwhelmed by the sauce and crispy texture.

Before we knew it, it was Dessert time! Oh but a bit of an anti-climax for me and my Suga Tasters who have recently traveled to Thailand. They’ve been spoiled by a wide selection of Sticky Rice Puddings, Fried Bananas, Coconut Puddings and other authentic Thai Desserts. Alas, we were served Chocolate Mousse. Owner, Kareena Mahbubani was surprised to know we would have been open to having her Sticky Banana Pudding. Of course, bring it on next time.

Wine Lady Debra did not skip a beat though! The Cocktail paired with the dessert literally fired things up again. An El Dorado Rum Cream Slide with smoky Cinnamon sticks! Delicious! Awesome finale.

Wine Lady Debra in action, assisting to pour the last Cocktail of the night.
Wine Lady Debra with Gabby Burgess

Let us remember that Mystic Thai is one of, if not, the best Ethnic Restaurant in Jamaica, so expectations were high. It was truly a fabulous evening. Kudos to Kareena and her team, Jamaica Food + Drink Kitchen for creating such a spectacular space for these Culinary Experiences along with their amazingly attentive and professional team, Select Brands and Wine Lady Debra who all delivered. A fantastic experience. Cheers. 🥂

Randy and Gabby Burgess of Suga Lifestyle with friends and Suga Tasters, Tennyson and Ashleigh Arnold.
Gabby Burgess with Owner of Mystic Thai, Kareena Mahbubani.

By: Gabrielle Burgess (Founder/Owner, Suga Lifestyle)

If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter & TikTok (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.