The Macarons at the AC Lounge are delish.
The AC Lounge at the AC Hotel Kingston is the newest hot spot in town and is great for light food and cocktails. Stop by and have a great weekend!
AC Hotel Kingston
Location: 38-42 Lady Musgrave Road. Kingston 5. JA. W.IÂ
Ph: 876-750-3000
Website:Â http://www.achotelkingston.com/
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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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
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How is your Healthier and Fitter 2019 going? Have you been having a healthy week?
Here is a tasty, reasonable and healthy lunch option from Cafe Dolce!
Cafe Dolce
Location: 114 Constant Spring Road (Inside of Tile City). Kingston 10.
Ph: 876-649-9971
Opening Hours:
Mon-Thurs, 7am-7pm
Fri-Sat, 7am-8pm
Sun, 7am-5pm
Instagram: @cafedolceja
By: Gabrielle BurgessÂ
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Suga’s Ratings for Pimentos
Date and time of visit: Saturday, January 12, 2019 at 2:45pm
No. of diners: 2 adults
NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum
Parking: ★★★★★
Ambience: ★★★☆☆
Décor: ★★★★☆
Comfort: ★★★★☆
Service: ★★★★☆
Speed: ★★★★☆
Food quality: ★★★★☆
Serving amount: ★★★★★
Plating/Packaging: ★★★★★
Value for $: ★★★★☆
Suga’s Breakdown:
Pimentos, the new spot for Soups, Salads and Sandwiches is quickly growing to be a trendy favourite for foodies and persons in search of healthy good options. Suga can see why. Pimentos is nestled in the courtyard of Devon House across from the Bakery.
Its comfortable outdoor seating is amongst natural greenery that provides a cool, cosy atmosphere on a hot, sunny day.
The Staff was welcoming and ordering was hassle-free. The menu was easy to read and even though there was variety, the categories of items available were straight forward.
Pimentos is surely keeping up to the time. After ordering, I was surprised and impressed to see that I got a timer, so I could feel free to stroll in the grounds of Devon House and return to pick up my order at the sound of the beep. They didn’t give you for a long wait either.
The cost of Soup ranges from $500 – $850JMD; Salads $750-$1380JMD; Sandwiches $990-$1950JMD and Hamburgers $1290-$1480JMD. A range of cheeses, spices, sauces, veggies and meats are integrated into the menu items to offer quite a variety. I overheard a diner next to me rave about how much she enjoyed her Salad. They offer large bowls that look filling too.
I appreciated the consistency of my Chicken Pumpkin soup. It wasn’t too thin and it wasn’t too thick. It was just right, pleasurable and filling. My husband, Randy had the Seafood Chowder that was delish!
My Smoked Marlin sandwich was flavourful, especially with the Pepper Jelly spread. The Hamburgers are cooked fresh, so Randy was able to tell them how he wanted it. His Swiss Mushroom Hamburger arrived cooked to order with mouth-watering, melted Swiss Cheese.
Pimentos is #SugaEndorsed and I may try the Pimentos Cheese Steak that has tender cuts of seasoned choice Beef, topped with a blend of Provolone and Monterey Jack Cheese with roasted onions, peppers and Pimento Aioli for $1390JMD when I return.
Pimentos
Location: 26 Hope Road. Devon House Courtyard. Kingston.
Ph: 876-908-1772; 876-906-9587
Instagram: @pimentosjamaica
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Oh-J’s Fresh Fruit and Smoothie delivers Fresh Fruits, Smoothies, Shakes, Wraps, Sandwiches and Salads to you!
You can customize your Smoothies and Wraps like myself to suit your diet and save tonnes of calories for the day.
Their Chicken wraps have adequate amounts of Chicken with salad to satisfy your hunger with no guilt trips. They are a perfect combo with their freshly made Smoothies. You can get a Chicken wrap, with a bit of fresh fruit on the side and a Smoothie delivered to you on time for under $1000JMD! Depending on how close you are of course, but definitely value for money.
Give Oh-J’s Fresh Fruit & Smoothie a try today!
Oh-J’s Fresh Fruit & Smoothie
Location: 26 South Camp Road. Kingston. Jamaica.
Ph: 876-513-3857; 876-339-9990
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @ohjsmoothie
By: Gabrielle Burgess (Certified Personal Trainer and Sports Nutritionist)
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Suga’s Ratings for Debut Brick Oven Pizzeria!
NB. Ratings fill 5 stars maximum
Parking: ★★☆☆☆
Ambience: ★★☆☆☆
Décor: ★★★☆☆
Comfort: ★★★★☆
Service: ★★★★★
Speed: ★★★★☆
Value for $: ★★★★☆
Suga Endorsement: ★★★☆☆
Comments:Â Parking is far too tight for the entire Plaza. Definitely not a place for Wine with a limited selection, so I see why they seem to now go by Debut Brick Oven Pizzeria instead of Debut Fine Wine and Grill – Brick Oven Pizza. Good Service and filling, tasty Pizzas. Love the incorporation of spice. Affordable prices. Simple, cosy spot for lunch.
Suga visited Debut Brick Oven Pizzeria two Saturdays ago at about 3:45 pm.
Even though they are known mainly for Pizza and that is what I went there for, I browsed their menu and it had a variety of items other than Pizza at affordable prices. Appetizers such as Buffalo Wings, Spicy Nachos, Mozzarella sticks, Calamari and more are available in the range of $648 – $1298JMD.
There are Paninis for $998 – $1198JMD, Salads for $698 – $798JMD and Pastas for $1698 – $1998JMD.
Jamaican Specialties such as Jerked Chicken, Escoveitched and Steamed Fish, Pepper Shrimp and more are available for under $3000JMD.
Vegetarians are not left out. There are Veggie Cheese Kebabs, Veggie Pizza options and more. The Pizza Siciliana (Grilled Eggplant, capers, tomato sauce, mozzarella) and Pizza Manchurian (Veggie balls, tomato sauce, mozzarella) look like a treat, whether you are Vegetarian or not.
Most importantly, quite a variety of Pizzas are available in the range of $1398 – $1898JMD. You can pick, choose and refuse from the traditional Pepperoni, Hawaiian, Margherita and Jerk Chicken Pizzas or you can go with Pizzas that have more divine toppings such as the Pacifica (Smoked Pacific Salmon, capers, sour cream, tomato sauce) and Pizza Marinara (Shrimp, Calamari, Fish, tomato sauce and cheese). You can also customize your own Pizza with protein and veggies.
Dessert is available as well, but with limited options.
It was quite lonely when my husband, Randy and I went there, but we were told by our hospitable hostess that the place really comes alive at night and when the cruise ships come in. The Cafe that was two shops down
got a lot of traffic when I was there though.
Our Pizzas arrived within 20 minutes of ordering. Randy, who loves spice thoroughly enjoyed his Indian Spiced Chicken Pizza. I can confirm it was as good as it looks. It was a mouthful of spicy, flavourful and cheesy goodness, not just because I tasted it, but because he finished eating his Pizza before me. That’s a record! Indians own the restaurant, hence a few dishes showcasing Indian cuisine and the incorporation of Indian spices and flavoured protein toppings on the Pizzas.
I had the Pizza Meatza, that was like a full house. It was stacked with Jerk Chicken, Pepperoni, Jerk Sausage and Onion. Scrumptious!
Refreshing Red Stripe Beers were the perfect combo with our Pizzas. Pizzas from Debut Brick Oven Pizzeria are #SugaEndorsed.
***Prices quoted are before G.C.T***
Debut Brick Oven Pizzeria
Location: Shop #15 Bay Harbour Plaza (Next to Burger King); 1-3 Gloucester Ave. (Hip Strip), Montego Bay
Ph: 876-971-6566
Facebook: Debut Pizza
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Market 17 is known for local farm fare and their adventurous option of Dining in the Dark.
Their menu has a list of products supplied from farms that meet their standards and are available.
The Dining in the Dark Experience takes place in a special dark room. A Blindtasting menu is served after all food allergies, dietary restrictions and extreme dislikes are declared. The goal is to heighten the senses without the help of sight. The Blindtasting menu starts at $75USD per person, excluding Beverages and taxes).
All of my friends were not in agreement to do the Dining in the Dark Experience, so we decided to go with the main menu.
Two Saturday nights ago, my friends and I were out and ready to dine at 8:30pm. We were pleasantly greeted and seated at our reserved table for seven. Our waiter, Daniel was unforgettable. He reeled off the menu from his head, explaining our options and giving suggestions eloquently. He had a personality that definitely kept the mood light.
He took our orders when we were ready and the Appetizers and Drinks came out quickly. They have a wide selection of Wines, Craft Beers and a few listed Cocktails.
It was said that the Appetizers were shareable, however hints were given as to what we may not want to share.
We had the Grassfed Beef Tartare, which was tasty, but a bit on the salty side.
The Crispy Miso Pork Belly was succulent, but the portion was small.
Rock Shrimp, Chicken, Ceviche, Meatballs and Salads were also available as Appetizers. However, their menu changes quite often and the Restaurant’s website is updated accordingly.
The Housemade Charcuterie served with Chutneys and Picklings usually stays on the menu. We made our own platter with our choices of Meats and Cheeses that was delightful.
Just when I started to wonder when our greatly anticipated Entrees were coming out, Daniel informed our table that our Entrees were coming forthwith! They surely did.
Tasting options were available for the Entrees at a reduced cost. When Daniel mentioned the pairing of Antelope Filet with Whole Key West Pink Shrimp at the start of Dinner, it created a ripple effect amongst the Suga Daddies*.
I definitely had to try it. The Grilled Antelope Filet, that was cooked medium rare, did not disappoint. It was tender and juicy with fresh farm to table greens, of which the Okra was a hit. The Whole Keywest Pink Shrimp that I tasted was delish! Sadly, the salt seemed to have gotten away from the Chef again on one of the Shrimp Tastings. This information was relayed to Daniel, who remedied the situation by removing it from the bill, since another serving was not desired at that time.
The Tasting portions definitely made up for the small portions of Appetizers. Imagine what the actual Entree portion may look like. Persons were satisfied by the end of the night, therefore since the small portions of Appetizers sufficed, perhaps the pricing could be reconsidered.
I paired my Tasting of Grilled Antelope Filet with Togorashi Seared Rare Yellowfin Tuna that was cooked medium rare. It was divine. Have you had Black Rice?! Phenomenal. It was refreshing to get such exquisite healthy options while dining out. Black rice has more micronutrients than Brown and White rice. Ancient Chinese mythology claims that Black rice was reserved solely for the Emperor and the Royal Family, due to its nutritional content and healing abilities. In those days, your life would be in danger if you were caught eating it without permission.
The Grilled Grassfed Beef Filet Mignon and Pan Roasted Chicken Breast did not spend much time on the table. They were thoroughly enjoyed.
The Pan Roasted Chicken Breast ($18/$33USD) was accompanied by Spiced Bulgur Wheat, Roasted Cauliflower, Squash, Pickled onion, Kale, Charred Eggplant Pudding and Marinated Tomatoes.
Dessert topped off the night for a few. Thankfully I did not indulge. Market 17’s strong points seem to be their Entrees and Beverage selections. The Vanilla Cake with Pastry cream was just up to typical standard.
Dessert Options range from $8 to $18 USD and included Cookies, Brownies, Parfaits, Ice Creams, Sorbets and a Cheese court.
Market 17 is a fine dining Restaurant to dress up and go to with excellent service, delish and unique Entree options, along with fine Beverages. Head to Market 17 and Eat like Royalty!
*Suga Daddies – Men who think they are too manly to be called a Suga Bear (Foodie in association with Suga Lifestyle)
Market 17
***Reservations Recommended***
Location: 1850 Southeast 17th St. Fort Lauderdale, FL. USA
Ph: 954-835-5507
Opening Hours: Sun. – Thurs.: 5:30pm-10pm; Fri. & Sat.: 5:30pm-10:30pm
Website (Menu Included): www.market17.net
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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Suga visited Hajarie last Saturday for Lunch at about 3:30pm. Hajarie has been open for about a month now at what I would like to call the Phoenix Avenue Complex of Eateries. Hajarie is not entirely new, but they have expanded their repertoire. They are familiarly known as The Teapot that used to be located in Sovereign Centre. A Suga Bear used to go there frequently for their refreshing Teas.
Persons have the option of comfortable indoor or outdoor dining with a scenic garden view.
I was pleasantly surprised by the detailed, exquisite décor upon entering. Volcanic rock wall tiles and light fixtures made of full bamboo. Impressive.
We were seated instantly by our pleasant, professional waitress. I observed two groups of content and comfortable diners that included a Birthday celebration. A new place pleasing big groups was a good sign already.
I appreciated the well-tailored Menu. It offered suitable variety without overwhelming options.
My husband, Randy and I started off with the Soup of the Day ($400JMD) that was a Pepper Pot Soup. It was rich in taste with the expected level of spicy.
Our dishes came out like clockwork with a little time to talk in between. Just how I like it. We had the appetizing Smoked Herring Salsa ($650JMD) that complemented our preferred side of Eggplant Chips well. The Olive wood and mother of pearl plates were a fine touch.
Randy had a delish, flavourful sautée of wild mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, olives and basil pesto tossed with freshly tien lettuce and julienne tomatoes. It was to all be served on a grilled flatbread but for some reason it was on a tortilla. He didn’t mind, however his only fault was that the olive oil was a bit overpowering in the pesto and I agreed. We informed the waitress.
My Avocado and Chickpea Wrap with added Chicken was perfection even though they didn’t have whole wheat tortillas. The Wrap was a sweet combination of grilled plantains, balsamic marinated cucumbers, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado and chickpea.
Paninis are their other choice for Casual dining, while Pastas, Salads, Kebabs and Seafood dishes serve as their Entrée options.
Hajarie serves Wine by the Bottle only. We opted to have their refreshing White Berry and Lemon Mint Iced Teas ($400JMD each). Ginger Honey was the other option.
We didn’t have Dessert, but their Brazilian Banana Cake is highly recommended by local Chef Anthony Fleming and I need to be there the next time they bake the Apple Cinnamon Torte!
So one can eat healthy, unhealthy or a little bit of both at Hajarie.
Hajarie РThe Teapot has truly evolved. Spectacular d̩cor with an ambience to unwind, Good service, Delicious food and Refreshing teas, Decadent desserts and Reasonable prices, all in one month. Bravo and Keep it up! Hajarie may be a hidden gem, but not for long. #SugaEndorsed
Hajarie (The Teapot JA) – Tearoom • Winebar • Bistro
Location: 9-11 Phoenix Avenue. Kingston 10
Ph: 876-634-9937
Instagram: hajarie_theteapot
By: Gabrielle Burgess
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There is a new Bar in town that the uptowners of Kingston are raving about. Cellar 8 Wine Bar! Its location in Upper Manor Park where Training Camp used to be, is close to home for most of the persons who were quick to stop by last weekend.
Suga visited last Saturday evening with husband and friend and was delighted to see the tasteful, modern decor from ceiling to floor. There was comfortable seating downstairs and a lounge area upstairs.
Service was on point all around. If we followed our waitress, we would have tried everything on the menu and drank out the bar as well.
One of the teething pains for them though, is the Wine List, which probably should have been their priority seeing that they have named themselves a Wine Bar. Just about 6 Wines were listed on the menu with reasonable prices by the Glass ($700-$950JMD) and Bottle. However, there was an entire wall with Wines to choose from that you were encouraged to walk over to if you desired to do so. If persons were seated by the wall you would not want to invade their privacy or space though. They explained that this issue would be sorted out soon.
Spirits were offered by the cue. V/X for $1100JMD, Overproof for $1200JMD and Johnnie Walker for $1800JMD to give you an idea.
Cocktails were also on the menu such as Mojitos ($800JMD), the Classic Martini ($900JMD) and more.
Persons can go for dinner as well with dishes that pair well with Wines such as Lamb Chops ($2100JMD), Basa Fillet ($1700JMD), Steak ($2500JMD), Pastas ($1400-$1800JMD), Pizzas ($1000-$1200ZJMD) and on the lighter side, Salads ($1000-$1100).
A friend was not happy with her Basa Fillet, which was communicated to her waiter and the Manager. It was described as slippery and slimy, served in small bites with a lot of skin on it, all overpowered by the cream sauce. Apologies everything could not be sugar-coated folks.
The portion of Steak served to her other half was described as quite small for the cost.
With that aside, feedback from others was extremely positive. They not only salivated over the food but it was refreshing to have it come out so fast after ordering in a room full of people. I was very happy to experience and observe that and I hope they keep it up.
Of course, if you didn’t just go for just drinks or dinner, after a couple glasses you are ready to order some tasty bites. Their Signature dish, Oxtail Tacos screamed out at me from the menu and I had no regrets! Delish!
We also had the Chimichuri Angus Beef Sliders that was fantastic as well.
Wedges, Wings, Mac and Cheese, Pork Sliders, Fine Roasted Thai Shrimp and more in the range of $450-$1700JMD were offered too.
The wide variety of options on the Menu were listed with the Prices subject to G.C.T.
A bar close to home is both a good and bad thing, but I think this one is here to stay. I will be returning for sure.
Word is, last Friday night was so full, everyone could not be seated. There was no need to worry though, because there was a lot of standing room. They enjoyed the vibe, their drinks and conversation. Most importantly, conversation. I was quite pleased that the music was low so I could have and enjoy a good conversation, which is lacking at many bars nowadays.
Cellar 8 Wine Bar was described as being ‘So New York!’.
Have fun checking this one out!
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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The Holiday season is over and it is surely hard for our stomachs to adjust to normal and even healthier eating habits.
For those who are not ready for a straight salad just yet, try adding kidney beans or chickpeas (aka garbanzo beans) to your next salad. A quarter cup adds an additional 5 grams of dietary fiber!
Fiber keeps you fuller for longer. Go for it!