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.

Complimentery Wine & Chocolate Pairing with Wine Lady Debra this Saturday!

Wine Lady Debra of Select Brands

Celebrate 10 years with Wine Lady Debra (Ig: @wineladydebra) and Select Brands (Ig: @selectbrandsja) this Saturday at Suga Lifestyle’s Christmas Connection at 3 PM at The Jamaica Pegasus’s Rio Bueno Suite!

Who doesn’t love Wine and Chocolate?!
Let’s see how to best pair them for our gatherings this Christmas!

***Limited Space Available*** from 3-4 PM. Reserve and Email Suga NOW, [email protected] or try on Saturday by the Rio Bueno Suite!

Chocollor Chocolate (Ig: @chocollorchocolate) and Fall in Chocolate (Ig: @fallinchocolate2) are down for quite a treat. Shop them at the show too!

Watch “Complimentery Wine & Chocolate Pairing with Wine Lady Debra this Saturday!” on YouTube here:

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

Bean to Bar Artisan Chocolate & Choco Bites from Chocollor and Chocolate Truffles and Confectioneries, Cookies, Cupcakes, Tiramisu & Trifle from Fall in Chocolate !

THIS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11th is Suga Lifestyle’s Christmas Connection at The Jamaica Pegasus !

Suga Lifestyle is CONNECTING YOU to the BEST of the island’s Creative Industries in one space at The Jamaica Pegasus.

Powered by Development Bank of Jamaica Ltd. and Proud Sponsors, The Jamaica Pegasus, Jablum Coffee, Gustazos Jamaica, Trend Media (LOOP), True and Natural Soap, SLEEK Jamaica, Big Tings Music.

Stay tuned for more on Suga’s Winter Wonderland Ã°Å¸Å½â€ž

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.

Suga’s Highlights from International Women’s Day at CWC’s Wine Pairing Soirée

20200310_035750

Sunday’s cool, breezy afternoon was perfect for savoury bites and bubbly to celebrate International Women’s Day and contribute to the Canadian Women’s Club of Jamaica’s outreach projects.

Harbour Wines and Spirits and Select Brands provided ideal pairings for offerings from EITS Café, Tea Tree Creperie, Raffaele’s Gourmet Pizzeria, Fromage, Chez Maria, Uncorked, Cannonball Café and Chocolate Dreams.

Everything was delightful but of course there were a few standouts. 

EITS Café

20200310_042113
Robyn Fox of EITS Café and her team for the day, along with a representative from Select Brands.

It’s always a pleasure to be around Robyn Fox and her hospitable team from EITS Café. Their Black Olive Bammy Bruschetta with Feta Cheese, Red Onion and Caramelized Onions was quite appetizing while paired with one of my fave’s, the Kung Fu Girl Riesling provided by Select Brands. Its apricot, white peach, honeysuckle aromas balanced out the sharpness of the Feta.

20200310_045757
Black Olive Bammy Bruschetta with Feta Cheese, Red Onion and Caramelized Onions from EITS Café.

Fromage

20200310_050526
Fromage’s Oxtail Arancini Balls.

Fromage’s Oxtail Arancini Balls were divine with Harbour Wines’ Ménage à Trois Bourbon Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon. That wine was unforgettable from the Table Talk Observer Food Awards last year.

Then their Chèvre Canapés with fig glazed walnuts paired with Rosé was such a treat. The light, fluffy texture with the touch of sweet was perfection.

20200310_042310
Fromage’s Chèvre Canapés with fig glazed walnuts.

Kudos to Lisa Chin and her team. #SugaSnaps

20200310_051358
Fromage’s Lisa Chin with her delish Chèvre Canapés at CWC’S Wine Pairing Soirée last Sunday.

Chez Maria

20200310_041935
Chez Maria’s Vegetarian Pumpkin Kibbeh Cups.

Chez Maria’s Vegetarian Pumpkin Kibbeh Cups with hummus on top was both healthy and scrumptious. The winner for seconds if watching your calories. They were paired with Select Brands’ Primal Roots California Red.

Guess who’s going into Catering? – Cannonball Café

Cannonball’s Antipasto Skewer with Lomo, Olive, Tomato, Mozzarella and Mushroom Tortelini was a myriad of flavours that balanced each other well and even further with Harbour Wines’ Columbia Crest Cabernet Sauvignon.

20200310_042240
Suga’s husband, Randy Burgess about to enjoy the Lomo & Mozzarrella Skewer along with the Sliced New York Strip Steak with Caramel Onions and Tomato Jam.

Chocolate Dreams

20200310_040746
Pistacio Chocolate Bites from Chocolate Dreams.

You have to top off the evening with some sweet! I didn’t mind the spicy either. Chocolate Dreams outdid themselves with their Scotch Bonnet Caramel Fudge and Pistacio Chocolate Bites. Their entire spread was worth the calories. If you like sweet wines, the Roscato Sweet Red courtesy of Harbour Wines was a great choice.

PhotoGrid_1583837517876
Sweet Red Wine Pairings courtesy of Harbour Wines with Chocolate Dreams’ Scotch Bonnet Caramel Fudge

Great evening filled with Vino, Savoury bites and Beautiful Women. Value for money with Proceeds to a great cause. Well done Canadian Women’s Club of Jamaica. #SugaEndorsed

20200310_041506
Suga Tasters and cousins, Gabrielle Burgess and Kimberly Nesbeth enjoyed celebrating International Women’s Day together and all things good that paired with wine last Sunday, March 8, 2020 at The Matalon House in Long Lane, St. Andrew.

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’s Highlights from the 21st Table Talk Jamaica Observer Food Awards!

20190530_203851
Gabrielle Burgess a.k.a Suga of Suga Lifestyle with husband, Randy Burgess at the Jamaica Observer Food Awards last Thursday, May 30, 2019.

The 21st staging of the Table Talk Jamaica Observer Food Awards last Thursday on the lawns of Devon House was truly a euphoric atmosphere with the highest standards of food and drink in abundance with vibrant music to bounce and wobble to while guests indulged.

All the booths were quite inviting, but with experience, my friends and I were quite selective about our approach to ensure that we didn’t neglect or overlook any of our favourites or newbies on our hit list.

We started at Rainforest Seafoods, where they had salivating Sushi spreads and Wines to pair it all with, including one of my faves, the Kung Fu Girl Riesling courtesy of Select Brands.

20190603_040500
One of the salivating Sushi spreads from Rainforest Seafoods.

We then made our way over to the Restaurant booths from Sandals Resorts International. Tender, juicy cuts of Beef, Ham and Lamb, Seafood, Ribs, Cheese platters, Cocktails, you name it!

20190603_112520
Cumin and Honey marinated Lamb Chops from Sandals Resorts International.

They also had a gigantic Sushi spread.

PhotoGrid_1559553613368.jpg

As I continued to walk the lawns of Devon House with 18-year old whiskey in hand from Johnnie Walker, my stops had to include my other faves, Stush in the Bush, Christina Simonitsch, Half Moon, Uncorked Sovereign North, Mystic Thai, Steak House on the Verandah and newbies, Jamaican Peanut Butter Factory and Butcher Block by Gregory Burrowes who had savoury offerings from Chef Celeste Gordon, last year’s OFA Caterer of he Year.

Sending a special shout out and hearty Congratulations to Chris and Lisa Binns of Stush in the Bush who cleaned up this year and deservedly so! Their plant powered spread by their very own Sagicor Group booth this year, satisfied scores of guests at a time.

20190530_210002
Lisa and Chris Binns of Stush in the Bush who walked away with 3 awards including the coveted, ‘Jamaican Restaurant with Outstanding Gastronomy Experience Award’.

Christina Simonitsch, who walked away the Enterprise and Outstanding Caterer Awards tantalised our taste buds with her Charred Scotchie Shrimp, then cooled it down with her G.H. Mumm & Strawberry Popsicles. The scrumptious Oxtail Arancini left me speechless.

PhotoGrid_1559590881664
Christina Simonitsch serving Randy Burgess some of her Charred Scotchie Shrimps.

Other Highlights of the night:

20190603_111736
Outstanding Caterer Nominee and Jing Shi Award Nominee for Dessert Chef of the Year, Trevanne Donegal, also by the G.H. Mumm booth, with delish Dark Chocolate Truffles.

FB_IMG_1559323245569
Uncorked’s Charcuterie and Cheese platter spread!

20190603_112422
The Solomon Gardner Awardee for Outstanding Service, Best Culinary Team Experience Awardee and Norma Shirley Awardee for Restaurant of the Year, Sugar Mill Restaurant at Half Moon Hotel’s succulent Barbeque Jerk Pork Belly!

Did you know?

Half Moon will be opening a Seafood Restaurant this September!

20190603_041136
Half Moon’s Seafood Restaurant, Delmare’s Chefs Claudio and Clarfield

A taste of what to expect from the Seafood Restaurant to come at Half Moon, Delmare were absolutely delicious Pan Seared Scallops accompanied by tomato compote with saffron and vanilla zucchini spaghetti with Tarragon.

20190603_112547
Delmare at Half Moon’s Pan Seared Scallops

20190604_050238
GCG Event’s surprise Cocktails, divine and spicy Jackfruit Crème Brûlée. They had delightful Beetroot Banana and Chilli marinated Shrimps on pickled green papaya too!

20190603_035711
Newbies on the block and Best Food Product 2019 Nominee, Outland Hurders Creamery and Farmstead Cheese Platter Displays! My tasting plate was quite appetizing.

20190603_035745
Sweet Obsession Ja’s White Chocolate Mousse with Strawberries by the Johnnie Walker booth!

20190603_035550
Just a touch of the mouth-watering Desserts at Future Bakery by Jing Shi’s booth!

Even if I didn’t indulge, I had to also stop by newbies Chillin’ Restaurant and Bar, Seaside Dutchie and Tastee Ltd./Brew’d Awakenings

Grace Kennedy’s Harbour Wines and Spirits also impressed with their Ménage à Trois selection of Wines and more.

You are always as good as your last show and this was by far the biggest and best Table Talk Jamaica Observer Food Awards that I have attended.

This year the Food Awards celebrated various Communities with Jamaican cuisine as authentic as you can get. Congratulations to the Chefs of the Communities that were selected and awarded:

• The Sephestines for Mount Estate, St. Thomas
• Monica Ottar for Bailey’s Vale, St. Mary
• The Allens for Gifford House – Granville, St. James, Montego Bay
• Christopher Marsh for Chris’s Cafe – Main Street, Oracabessa St. Mary
• Chris & Lisa Binns for Stush in the Bush – Free Hill, St. Ann

Chefs, Bakers, Caterers, Retailers and Restaurants have really elevated the level of quality for what they had to offer over the past year.

Congratulations to conceptualiser, Novia McDonald Whyte, the Jamaica Observer, the Judges, Sponsors, Retailers, the talented Nominees, Awardees and everyone responsible for the successful execution and staging of the Food Awards this year.

Cheers to next year!

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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

How was Picante for Jamaica Food & Drink Festival?!

Picante is the event on the Jamaica Food and Drink Festival (JFDF) roster that takes you through a world of hot, zesty flavours.

It was held last Friday night at The Ruins, Mona Visitors’ Lodge from 7-11pm.

Suga arrived early, at about 7:20pm to beat the lines and made her rounds.

Coca Cola had tasty cocktails upon entry. They had a creamy cocktail that suited the ladies and a White Rum mix that the gentlemen like my husband, Randy enjoyed.

Select Brands had sweet wines to cool down the spice and a refreshing Stoli Blueberi Lemonade that was the talk of many patrons for the night.

By the entrance, there was National’s Scotch Bonnet Butter Cheddar Popcorn stand with Popcorn bags by Chef Christian Sweeney. It was finished in no time. As usual, he created delightful bites to please the crowd.

PhotoGrid_1540813006357.jpg

Chef Sweeney also had a menu of Spicy Chicken with Grilled Corn and Chick Peas Salsa. Thankfully it tasted better than it looked. Congrats Chef Sweeney, it was Picante. For those who returned later in the night like myself, Pan-seared Tuna was served instead of the Chicken with the Chick Peas Salsa and it was just as delightful.

Chef Shea Stewart had a menu of spiced Snapper with a Jalapeño, Chili and Scotch Bonnet infused Risotto, however the outcome was mild. The presentation was poor, but it was quite tasty nonetheless.

PhotoGrid_1540813473485
Chef Shea Stewart’s Spiced Snapper en Papillote with Scotch Bonnet Butter served with Jalepeño and Chili Pepper infused Risotto Scotch Bonnet.

Chef Dennis McIntosh did a tasty seafood dish, but it was mild as well.

20181029_081423
Chef Dennis McIntosh’s spicy Caribbean Seafood Au Gratin.

Broken Plate’s dish was delicious and flavourful with a touch of spice, but I was still waiting on another dish to make me say, ‘Picante!’.

20181029_082128
Broken Plate’s Mustard Chili Pesto Rubbed Pork Loin with Crispy Bacon Orzo Pilaf topped with Asian mixed greens and Arugula Salad

Disappointing booths for the Night

Before I get to outstanding booths for the night, the majority of Chefs produced impressive dishes. However, there were two disappointing dishes for me. One was definitely worse than the other.

20181029_075544
The Cliff Hotel’s Chef Jonhoi Reid’s Mojo Braised Pork topped with Crispy Pork Belly with Black Bean Corn Yuca Cake, Smoked Scotch Bonnet Salsa Verde, Jalapeño Pico de Gallo and Cilantro Crema.

Chef Jonhoi Reid from the renowned Cliff Hotel in Negril was very personable, but had a sloppy display with Pork that was difficult to chew. I was excited to see Pork stacked on Pork, but the outcome was disappointing. The Black Bean Corn Yuca Cake didn’t save the dish for me, but was quite palatable beneath it all.

I observed that they were serving persons up to 11:20pm, when most Chefs left or packed up. Having so much food left may underscore my thoughts.

Then there was Walkerswood featuring Guest Chef from overseas, Patrick Simpson and UTECH. Sad to say, but it was the worst of the night. The Peppa Shrimp with Curried Vegetable Succotash was spicy a.k.a Picante, but the Pulled Jerk Chicken was terrible. Perhaps, Chef Simpson is unfamiliar with Jamaican sauces, but that sauce did not complement the Pulled Jerk Chicken well at all. It wasn’t spicy and it overpowered it completely.

20181029_074809
Walkerswood featuring Chef Patrick Simpson and UTECH’s Grilled Peppa Shrimps with Curried Vegetable Succotash (Top); Pulled Jerk Chicken on Bammy Round with Pickle Escallion Relish (below); Solomon Gundy Crostini topped with Roasted Corn and Tomato

Winners of the Night for Suga!

Suga had an overall winner, but there wasn’t only one winner for me, there were five Chefs who absolutely brought it to Picante!

Oji Jaja! Best Shrimp of the Night 

Chef Oji Jaja had Seared Scallops, but the hit with most patrons was the Seared Shrimp with roasted pepper Scotch Bonnet sauce and Micro Basil. It wasn’t spicy, but was the best Shrimp of the night for Suga.

20181029_075132.jpg
Chef Oji Jaja’s Seared Shrimp with roasted pepper Scotch Bonnet sauce and Micro Basil

Spiciest dish of the Night!

20181029_121715

The spiciest dish of the night hands down went to Chef George Matthews of Summertime Villa (Silver Sands, Trelawny; also cooks at Tryall). I couldn’t even say or scream Picante. My running eyes and nose said it all. Mission accomplished Chef Matthews.

20181029_081443
Chef George Matthews’ Thai Chili Shrimp with Breadfruit poppers.

Culinary Showman of the Night

Chef Mark Cole from The Jamaica Pegasus cooked with a lot of flare, literally. He cooked two dishes, including a stuffed spicy Potato, but he had one of the two longest lines of the night for his Picante style Salmon Hash. It’s jalapeno salsa made you say, Picante and it was delish! Bravo.

20181029_082316
Chef Mark Cole of The Jamaica Pegasus being quite a showman at Picante last Friday night.

Chef Mark Cole’s Menu:

20181029_122008.jpg

The Best Dish at Picante

20181029_081847
The other long line of the night with foodie, Sean Morgan looking on was for…

Drum roll…

PhotoGrid_1540820338712
Chef Lisa Binns of Stush in the Bush serves up Suga her Picante dish, while husband, Chef Christopher Binns was on the grill.

For the Second year in a row, Stush in the Bush wins at Picante for Suga. We all know you can’t help but love Chris and Lisa Binns and the unique, savoury, delightful food they consistently produce, but without bias, although Chef Mark Cole came close, their dish was the best overall at Picante. Their dish made you hot and cooled you down at the same time with pickled watermelon radishes and pickled cucumbers.

On time/Flowing production – Check
Personality – Check
Presentation – Check
Theme (Picante) – Check
Flavours – Check
Textures – Check
Wow Factor – Check

Snaps for making Vegetarian look good! There were so many flavours and textures on one plate. Absolute perfection. Stush in the Bush showed up once again. Congratulations and Well done.

20181029_082630
Stush in the Bush’s winning dish!

Drinks and Desserts!

Other than more drinks provided by the Appleton Estate Bar, desserts provided were a great way to cool off the taste buds.

Sagicor’s booth with Chef Rebecca Karram had sweet and spicy treats. She did well. I enjoyed all of her desserts. The Mexican Hot Chocolate Cookie with a Chai Spiced Milk Shot was a crowd fave.

20181029_075039
Chef Rebecca Karram’s Menu

20181026_205123
Chef Rebecca Karram telling us what she prepared for us to enjoy at Picante last Friday night.

Wisynco’s Haagen Dazs Ice Cream booth was buzzing all night with patrons and when the night was over, they had brawta. They served one item from their menu at different points in the night. The items provided an added crunchy texture to the ice cream, with a touch of spice too.

20181029_074941
Wisynco’s Haagen Dazs Ice Cream booth Menu Items

Kudos to the organizers and sponsors of Jamaica Food and Drink Festival. ALL events were sold out and from what I heard, patrons enjoyed the majority of the events. Persons were disappointed with the smallest event, Crisp because it had less Chefs.

Jamaicans are a fickle bunch. So after a few successful stagings, I think that JFDF should change things up a bit, and replace Crisp with Seafood, perhaps call it Sea Breeze. It could be by Port Royal for a change of scenery or even in Portland or Ocho Rios. The event has been staged in Kingston for some time, but it is Jamaica Food and Drink Festival.

Looking forward to another great year!

20181029_073441
Gabrielle Burgess a.k.a Suga by the Haagen Dazs booth at Picante last Friday night at the Mona Visitors’ Lodge.

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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

IMG-20171030-WA0001-1

The Other JFDF Events and Suga’s Epicurean & Delectable Choices for Restaurant Week!

Suga brought you the low down for Crisp at The Gardens, Jamaica Pegasus ($5000 All Inclusive) and Picante ($7500 All Inclusive) at The Ruins, UWI Mona’s Visitor’s Lodge, so how were the other JFDF events? Suga Bears and Suga Daddies reported!

Most persons like to get bad news out of the way first. The events with the highest price tags were not that impressive for some patrons. That is, Vintage for $12000JMD all-inclusive and Brunch at the Gallery for $20000JMD/$150USD all-inclusive.

Vintage 

Meals at Vintage at the Manor in Jack’s Hill were described as basic and a low standard for Ortanique on the Mile, one of the restaurants in Florida that was represented by Owner Cynthia Hutson. Suga Bears enjoyed the view and Dessert though.

Brunch at the Gallery

Brunch at the National Gallery, Downtown Kingston presented by Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau was decorated beautifully by Tai Flora and had a sufficient selection of Wines by Select Brands, but the service of food was slow and it arrived to tables cold. The Brunch was from 11am to 4pm and after a long day, patrons were leaving at 4pm and Dessert was just being served. Should the blame go on the Event Planner, the Chefs or both? It was stated that the execution was poor.

The Menu

IMG-20171030-WA0001-1
The Menu for Brunch at the Gallery (Photo Contributed)

The Presentation of some of the meals were also quite sloppy to say the least.

IMG-20171030-WA0005
Vegetables and Greens served at Brunch at the Gallery last Sunday (Photo Contributed)

Did the Incredible Hulk have an accident here?! I was in disbelief and gathered that this was the consensus amongst most tables. This looked nothing like the neatly displayed dish on the Event’s social media page. Cold food, slow service and poor, unappetizing presentation is unacceptable for $20,000JMD. I believe things can be shaken up next year. There are so many other talented, efficient Chefs around and I understand the ambience of The National Gallery, but a change in venue could be considered as well.

IMG-20171030-WA0004
Chargrilled Rack of Lamb Presented to a table at Brunch at the Gallery last Sunday (Photo Contributed)

Kudus to award-winning baker, Nadine Burie that probably saved both events. Her desserts are offered at Cafe Blue.

Screenshot_2017-10-31-16-07-43-1
Fresh Fruit Pavlova by Nadine Burie (Photo Credit: @jafoodanddrink)

Setting bad news aside, persons fully enjoyed Meet Street and the Market in Downtown, Kingston ($500JMD entry) last Saturday. A patron said she did not know that Downtown could be so nice. The set up and atmosphere was phenomenal and the vendors outdid themselves.

Screenshot_2017-11-02-16-24-35-1
Vendors that pleased at Meet Street and the Market Last Saturday in Downtown, Kingston

Pork Palooza ($6500JMD All Inclusive) at Palm Drive, Hope Gardens that kicked things off for the festival on the Saturday the week before was a hit. The event is usually the favourite for Patrons. Jamaicans love their Pork! It wasn’t the unanimous favourite this year though.

Which event took JFDF 2017?!

Close call! It has been narrowed down to the new event, Chop Stix ($5000JMD All Inclusive) held at Zen Lawn, Hope Zoo last Wednesday that featured fare from the far East and the zesty, Picante!

Based on Food, Weather and Vibe, Chop Stix gets the edge. Picante had the on and off rain, which was uncontrollable with provisions put in place, but Jamaicans love a new event.

The Chefs, Caterers and Restaurants delivered at Chop Stix! Here was the Menu if you missed it. Chop Stix can’t be missed next year!

Screenshot_2017-11-02-16-25-31-1.png

Screenshot_2017-11-02-16-25-28-1.png

Screenshot_2017-11-02-16-25-26-1.png

So what’s next for my Foodies? Restaurant Week!

IMG_20170823_085515

Yes, I know Restaurant Week has lost its steam. Marketing has been ongoing but should be revised, including the selection of Ambassadors. JFDF being so close to Restaurant Week definitely overshadowed it.

Menus for Restaurants are more of the same, but it makes your choices that much easier. The good ones will pop out at you. So that means you may need to make reservations quickly or maybe not, because places I called yesterday that are normally booked out weeks in advance seemed to have quite a bit of space left.

For now, I am leaving you with my recommendations for the Epicurean and Delectable Categories. Here you go!

Epicurean ($4300 +tax +gratuity +beverages)

> The Terra Nova All Suite Hotel in Kingston.

Despite inconsistencies in service and quality throughout the year, they have managed to keep a good reputation for Restaurant Week so far.

Sidenote: I do not think any Restaurant in Market Place should be placed in the Epicurean Category. The venue is far too casual and a long wait is usually expected.

Out of town? Marguerites by the Sea, Montego Bay. You should expect a spectacular dinner and service with a seaside or picturesque garden view.

There are some other reputable Restaurants listed, but the lack of creativity with their Menus were the deal breakers.

Delectable ($3800JMD +GCT +gratuity +beverages)

> Fromage Bistro on Hillcrest Avenue in Kingston.

Nirvanna Indian Cuisine, Centro-Courtyard by the Marriott and Black Orchid Restaurant at Eden Gardens would be secondary choices.

In the other city? Both options from Mobay are primary choices – Mystic Thai and The Houseboat Grill. So persons can choose between the two based on the Cuisine desired.

***Stay tuned for more Restaurant Week choices from Suga Lifestyle.***

By: Gabrielle Burgess

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

PhotoGrid_1441184595450

How was Moonlight at Stush in the Bush, St. Ann, Ja?!

PhotoGrid_1441184595450

Need a reminder of what and where exactly is Stush in the Bush? Check out Suga’s Review on them a bit over a year ago by clicking on the link below:-

Stush in the Bush with Lisa Binns

Now that you are either up to speed, you are already aware of the hidden culinary experience or you are just so curious that you want to read on, I will keep you in suspense no further.

Last Saturday I visited Stush in the Bush’s second Moonlight event with friends. The event costed $80USD with limited spaces. As soon as all spaces were filled, a notification was sent out. Before the event, we were updated and teased with emails of the menu, what to wear aka ‘Bush Glam’, a little of what to expect etc., just enough to let you remember the event, be well prepared and to remain enthusiastic about it. The directions given were also detailed to the key so you would not get lost.

There was a threat of rains from Hurricane Erika, so on the day we were told to wait it out a little until given more information. The event was to start at 3pm. We got the clear with pictures of bright sunshine a little after 1pm. So my friends and I decided to get ourselves together to make our way out. We got there at 4pm. Only ‘4-wheel drives’ could go directly downhill to the farm, otherwise you would have to park at the top and walk down because it was quite steep and rough. Hence the ‘Bush Glam’ dress code to wear boots, closed foot shoes etc.

Upon entry we saw a few people gathered, already nibbling on appetizers. I had no doubt food would be circulated already. Mrs. Lisa Binns is always prepared, on time and seems to be quite a perfectionist. My friends and I were greeted by both Lisa and her husband, Chris on our way in, genuinely warm and pleasant as usual. There was also a welcome sign with our names along with other guests, which I found to be quite creative and hospitable of them.

Now to the food! Let me start out by saying that I found everything delicious throughout the evening except for the Potato and Leek soup that was just ‘ok’ and the Robalo (fish) for the main course, which was overcooked. But they had so much going on, food everywhere you turned, as soon as you stopped eating, something else was brought out for you to experience, so those two, yes, literally two items that were not made to perfection, seemed oh so negligible.

The ‘First Bites’ were as follows:

Screenshot_2015-09-02-08-44-07-1

The Rosemary Beer Bread really had the taste of Red Stripe beer and you could taste the rum in the Rum Guava sauce for the Yam and Pineapple Croquettes! Awesome. We also had access to freshly chopped Coconuts. The Fiyah Grilled Pizza that stood out for me was the Pesto pizza. Delish!

PhotoGrid_1441209245598

As the majority of guests arrived to the lovely venue with a spectacular view, we were given an official welcome by Lisa followed by Chris. She gave many thanks to her guests for coming, especially returnees and important guests to her such as Anna-Kay Tomlinson aka Miss T from Miss T’s Kitchen, who continuously encouraged Lisa from the very beginning and Chef Conroy Arnold from Hermosa Cove who also loves to use their products, especially their fresh, local greens from the farm. Their farm, called Zionites farm, had a nice ambience and was quite cool.

We were also reminded that the first ingredient of their products are Love and Affection, sometimes hard to come by, said Chris. However, their love story is quite sweet and it is obvious they continue to care, love and support each other throughout their lives, especially at the toughest times such as the passing of their mothers. Imagine, when Chris met Lisa, her mother died 5 days after. He could either step up or run. He said he did a bit of both but he made sure he found himself on that plane to Barbados to meet the family and go to the funeral. Quite a task. But he made it happen.

They thanked The Jamaica Observer, who of course has been there from the very start and other persons who helped with the event to make it even more dynamic such as Select Brands, Grace Kennedy for the Harbour wines and spirits, Gina May Mair from Fresh Monger JA (known for wild caught, premium seafood) for the Ceviche and fresh, local fish and Sasha Palmer, CEO of Liqy Liqy who provided popsicles for part of dessert. It was nice to see the support given on both sides for Moonlight and each other’s products, even leading up to the event.

What was even nicer to know, when they thanked their staff, we learnt it comprised of people they trained from within their community. Lisa mentioned she would also like to start a Young Women’s group for young ladies leaving school with no jobs and young mothers, creating even more opportunities for persons in the community. A nursery on property for their young ones to be monitored and in a safe place while they work is in the plans too. Also, cooking classes for them and us folks, that has already been a frequent request.

That was an inspiring mouthful that had everyone’s close attention, as Lisa is always so eloquent and Chris adds his quiet touch of humour. We moved on to have fun at the Selfie station where an actual selfie stick was provided. Ha! Finally learnt how to use one. We then gathered by a huge fig tree and joined hands, a place of meditation for Chris.

PhotoGrid_1441209395948

For the main course, we walked down the love path made by arched plants and trees and sat on benches by tables that held at least 10 people. So it was a homey atmosphere that facilitated socializing and even a little networking.

The main course aka ‘Stush dining’ was as follows, paired with red and white Harbour wines & spirits accordingly:-

PhotoGrid_1441211671818

The Mango & Lime Ceviche shooter and Zionites Farm signature salad including Arugula, Microgreens, Jackfruit, Watermelon and Tomatoes along with a choice of Mango lime & ginger vinaigrette was fantastic. Their Blow Fyah sauce in small doses of course, went well with the Robalo and grilled veggies.

PhotoGrid_1441212261669

We had the pleasure of sitting with Ms. Sasha Palmer, founder and CEO of Liqy Liqy based in Manchester, who also won the Business Journalists’ award at Jamaica Observer’s Mogul in the Making Ceremony this year. She had such a lovely personality. Certainly a pleasure conversing with her. She is quite passionate about what she does even though it is her side business.

She also offers opportunities to persons within her community in Mandeville by employing single mothers to make the popsicles and run the Liqy Liqy carts at events.

She was excited to share that they cater popsicle treats in all sizes, shapes and forms for Bachelorette parties and other events. Wink wink. From what I remember that night, she had the flavours of Mango, Lemon and Basil, Tamarind and Coconut. The Vanilla flavour made its debut and it was delicious like Devon House Ice Cream, BUT all the popsicles are 100% organic and low in calories. For the others that I had, the Lemon and Basil popsicles were refreshing and good palette cleansers and the Coconut was tasty as well.

PhotoGrid_1441209510356

Liqy Liqy’s gourmet popsicles should be on the shelves soon, if they aren’t already, at supermarkets such as Loshusan, John R Wong and all the Sugar & Spice locations. Look out for their Sorbets coming soon too. Follow them @LiqyLiqy on Instagram and Facebook. 

The bonfire had begun and we made our way back up to where we gathered at the beginning to be greeted by Ginger cookies topped with Lemon Curd.

For those watching their weight, the whole day was practically guilt free until I was presented with extremely salivating Dessert pizza with Banana, Chocolate, Peanut butter and more. Even though it was practically all Vegan, it was the winning dessert for me! Another Dessert pizza with Jackfruit also came out and that grill kept firing up more. I thought all of that created fireworks in my stomach, only to hear real fireworks behind me. What a pleasant surprise! They definitely went all out.

PhotoGrid_1441209663380

Only one person in the crew checked the time so we wouldn’t get carried away into the night there. Wine was still flowing, sauces and spreads were on sale and it seemed like we missed the after party on the dance floor. It was just after 8pm, the time at which Moonlight was scheduled to be finished. So definitely not a typical Jamaican event, as it had an on-time start and finish. We appreciated that they were considerate of our time, allowing us to get back into town at a reasonable hour.

Wow, what a delightful evening that left everyone impressed and fully satisfied. A refreshing experience that freed the mind, both an inner and outer body experience in a sophisticated-rustic atmosphere. They prepared and catered to the vegans, vegetarians, those who couldn’t eat pineapples, all with allergies, those who had to eat gluten-free, you name it. Well done Chris, Lisa and all the others that came together to make it happen.

So what else is on the horizon for Stush in the Bush? A possible Bed and Breakfast, a Yoga platform around the huge fig tree, where a bonfire was lit for the night and an outpost on another Caribbean island.

Suga cannot wait to return with even more friends and family!