Gabby Burgess a.k.a Suga of Suga Lifestyle with the New Elderflower Martini and Melon Surprise from Regency Bar and Lounge, Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel at their New Menu Launch last Tuesday.
A Renewed Regency Bar and Lounge (Ig: @regencybarandlounge)? YES Please! I’d love to see all the ladies return to Regency in 3s and 4s in their LBDs and the Gentlemen dressing their best.
Endless Cocktails have returned Every Friday 5pm – 10pm and the NEW NEW Menu is FIRE.
Check out highlights from Regency Bar and Lounge’s New Menu Launch here:
Crowd fave Cocktails at the New Menu Launch last Tuesday were the Elderflower Martini and Melon Surprise pictured with me on this cover.
If Rum Cream is your thing, feel free to get Drunk In Love, but it’s Bittersweet for Campari lovers. White Rum? Is it a Martini? No, it’s an uncoventional Rum Fire based Classic Daiquiri. That will do it. I liked it! The white rum was not overpowering at all. There are more to come today too!
Oh and fret not, with Endless Cocktails you are encouraged to Drink Responsibly. The New Menu items with tasty Apps and Dinner dishes made with love will soak it all up.
Lobster Bruschettas
Best Broccoli I’ve ever had due to a tasty vinaigrette and a crispy cashew crunch. The Surf & Turf and Chicken Sliders and both the Lobster and Chicken Bruschettas were highlights for me, bringing the right amount of spice. Those slider buns were soft and fresh and the meat was tender and well seasoned. #SugaSnaps
The Shrimp Penne can’t lose with the Pasta lovers and of course, their Signature Lobster Mac-n-Cheese is back to call your name with a little more love. So creamy!
Lobster Mac-n-Cheese
Curry Goat Rice Balls ?! Different, but Delish.and the Chocolate Mousse Cake was definitely worth the calories.
Chocolate Mousse Cake
Go check out Regency Bar and Lounge & have a Great Weekend! Cheers! ***Making a Reservation is advised*** #SugaEndorsed
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.
EITS Cafe will be featuring a special a la carte menu from 12noon to 4pm and a Valentine’s Dinner Buffet from 5pm to 8pm. Be sure to RSVP because space is limited!
Suga recommends you celebrate love in the mountains if you get the Friday off or get to leave work early. Such a fresh, cool, calm atmosphere.
Here are the mains from the Dinner Buffet menu or you can go to www.17milepostja.com to see full menus.
EITS Cafe at Mount Edge Guesthouse
Ph#: 876-944-8974
Address: 17 Mile Post, Newcastle. St. Andrew Jamaica
2. Sugar Mill Restaurant
The Sugar Mill Restaurant by Half Moon, Montego Bay has the perfect ambience for Valentine’s Day Dinner. I am not sure if they have any special menu for the day, but if you go, be sure to ask for your local rate and enjoy.
It is the best restaurant in Jamaica and guaranteed value for money.
Sugar Mill Restaurant
***Reservations Recommended***
Location: Spring Farm Drive. Half Moon, Rose Hall, Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Hashtag for Twitter, Facebook, Instagram: #SugarMillJamaica
3. The Blue Window Restaurant at the Jamaica Pegasus
The Blue Window Restaurant has quite an eye-catching menu and they aim to please with added entertainment. Even their Island Jerk Chicken Salad looks good. But how do you choose between that and the Spicy Curry Shrimp with whipped saltfish?! Make sure you order both and feed each other. I would also definitely have their Surf & Turf.
The Blue Window Restaurant, Jamaica Pegasus
***Reservations Recommended***
Location: 81 Knutsford Blvd., Kingston 5
Ph: 876-926-3690 – 5
4. Chive Restaurant
One of my faves, Chive restaurant is offering a 4-Course Valentine’s menu for Friday AND Saturday. Their menu looks fantastic, especially that chive style Bouillabaise! Be sure to make your reservations, as seating is limited.
Cellar 8 is offering a glass of Prosecco with dinner and their dishes are usually delicious. The C8 Seafood Thermidor looks like the winner to me.
Cellar 8 Wine Bar
Location: Shop 10, Upper Manor Park Plaza
Ph: 876-613-5934
Opening Hours: Tuesdays-Sundays, 4pm – 11pm
6. The Terra Nova All Suite HotelÂ
The Terrace or Regency Room at The Terra Nova Hotel is quite reputable to have dinner for special occasions.
Their Filet Minon that is usually cooked to perfection is on the menu!
The Terra Nova All Suite HotelÂ
***Reservations Recommended***
Guests with Reservations receive Priority Seating
Location: 17 Waterloo Road. Kgn. 10.
Ph: 876-926-2211; 876-754-2114
Make your reservations and Enjoy! Love is in the air.Â
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Suga Bears have been enjoying Terra Nova’s Steak and Seafood Poolside Buffet that they host from time to time on the last Wednesday of the month.
The event is poolside with candlelight and a wide spread of Seafood and endless Steak such as Filet Mignon, Lobster, Crayfish and more.
It’s a relaxed setting for family, friends and business partners to enjoy great food and value for money! Check it out tomorrow!
The Terra Nova All Suite HotelÂ
***Reservations Recommended***
Guests with Reservations receive Priority Seating
Location: 17 Waterloo Road. Kgn. 10.
Ph: 876-926-2211; 876-754-2114
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Promo, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
The Terrace continues to be one of the few dependable fine dining restaurants in Jamaica. The quality of the food remains top-notch. The service is up there too, but the waiters could loosen up a little. Though professional, they could be more pleasant and use a bit of charm.
The Terrace has a quiet setting with ambience ideal for conversation as we enjoyed our courses.
Caribbean Marlin Plate – Thinly sliced Caribbean Marlin served with Marlin Ceviche, Herbed Cream Cheese and Tropical Fruit Salsa, Lime and Balsamic Vinaigrette (USD$17.95)
Seafood Risotto with creamy Arborio Rice, Grilled Lobster, Shrimp, Scallops, Mussels, Herbs and Parmesan (USD$35.95)
If you have visitors for business or pleasure, a special date or occasion, The Terrace at Terra Nova is #SugaEndorsed.
The Terrace at the Terra Nova All Suite HotelÂ
***Reservations Recommended***
Location: 17 Waterloo Road. Kgn. 10.
Ph: 876-926-2211; 876-926-9334
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle Online, on Instagram (@sugalifestyle), Twitter (@sugalifestyleja) or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Happy Ash Wednesday and Happy Valentine’s Day Suga Bears!
Suga has shortlisted a few places for Dinner for the late or spontaneous planners that do not want to spend the day at home. These Restaurants have been chosen based on their Prices per Couple, Reputation in Quality of Food and Service, Ambience and of course, their advertised Menu options.
Mystic Thai ($6990 per couple incl. Tx)
Location: B11 – Fairview Towne Centre Unit, Montego Bay
Ph: 876-633-6535
The Palms at CC South Beach ($8625JMD per couple incl. Tx and Service Charge
Location: 2 Brompton Rd. Kgn. 5
Ph: 876-919-3700
Jamaica Liquor Warehouse ($9487.50JMD per couple incl. Tx & Service Charge)
Location:Â Â 17 Lindsay Crescent, Kingston
Ph: 876-925-9427
100 Hope Road ($11500JMD per couple incl. Tx & Service charge)
Location: 100 Hope Road. Kgn. 6
Ph: 876-665-3238
The Steak House on the Verandah ($12647.84JMD per couple incl. of Tx & Service Charge)
Location: Devon House, Waterloo Road. Kgn.
Ph: 876-616-8831/876-616-8833
The Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel ($17600JMD per couple incl. Tx & Service Charge)
Location:Â 17 Waterloo Road. Kgn. 10.
Ph:Â 876-926-2211; 876-926-9334
If you would like to really go all out, A la Carte Fine-dining at the Terra Nova may be the choice for you!
The Terra Nova is offering a Valentine’s Day Dinner with two options, Poolside Buffet dining and A la Carte Fine-dining by The Terrace. The Buffet option is slightly less per couple, but I prefer and recommend dining that is less public with less forced interaction and the temperature and quality of food A la Carte is usually better. Jazz after Dark will follow too! Give them a call for more information and to make reservations.
If you would like to pamper your loved one or even treat yourself, this Spa option is Suga’s #1 Recommendation:
 The White Orchid Spa at The Jamaica Pegasus!
Location: The Jamaica Pegasus at 81 Knutsford Blvd., Kgn 5.
Ph: 876-926-3690
Enjoy!
~ With Love from Suga ~
Suga a.k.a Gabby with husband, Randy Burgess, enjoying Valentine’s Day Brunch hosted by Simo’s Bread and Catering (Christina Simonitsch) and Tooksie Kay Catering (Alexa Von Strolley) on Sunday, February 11 at Kayter on 18 Balleter Avenue.
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this Blog, follow Suga Lifestyle or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Last Sunday at 6:30pm, I had Dinner at The Terrace, Terra Nova All Suite Hotel. The Terrace is in the Epicurean category ($4300JMD) for Restaurant Week and my husband, Randy and I were looking forward to having sumptuous dishes.
We had a great start with the Appetizers. I preferred the Seafood Medley.
Coquille de Mer – Medley of Seafood in a rich cream sauce with mushroom and cheese
Confit of Pimento Chicken – On a medallion of hard dough bread and a drizzle of pineapple pepper jelly
We both had the Lobster Bisque to follow, which was rich Lobster Soup, finished with cream and Brandy. I appreciated that the Soup was not salty. It was rich indeed and tasty.
Apart from a long wait before the Entrees, service was smooth. When we were waiting a little bit more than half an hour with no update on the arrival of the Entrees, a waiter caught my eye looking around and said that our Entrees were coming out shortly and they did. Besides that hiccup, the staff were cordial and quite attentive. The food was sumptuous as expected too.
Terra Nova Petit Fillet – Petit prime Filet Mignon grilled, topped with Shrimp and Blue Mussel scampi with Scallop Potato and roasted Vegetable.
With the above salivating description of a Surf n’ Turf, I think they could have served more than a single Shrimp and Mussel. Props to the Chef though, because that cut of meat was perfection and cooked to order, medium rare, exactly how we like it. Same goes for the Lamb Chops! No disappointment there, because Terra Nova is known to have the best on the island. I thoroughly enjoyed those portions.
Terra Nova Half Rack of Lamb – Marinated New Zealand Lamb crusted with garlic and rosemary, roasted and served with mint and Pomegranate Au Jus
Dessert was decadent and quite a delightful ending to our Sunday Dinner.
Dessert served at The Terrace, Terra Nova All Suite Hotel last Sunday, November 12, 2017.
The three courses with the addition of a beverage, service charge and G.C.T came to about $6000JMD per person. The Terrace at the Terra Nova All Suite Hotel was definitely value for money and is Suga Endorsed for Restaurant Week.
There are still three nights left for Restaurant Week and it may not be too late to make those Reservations!
Enjoy!
The Terrace at the Terra Nova All Suite HotelÂ
***Reservations Recommended***
Location: 17 Waterloo Road. Kgn. 10.
Ph: 876-926-2211; 876-926-9334
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this article, follow Suga Lifestyle or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
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.
VintageÂ
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
The Menu for Brunch at the Gallery (Photo Contributed)
The Presentation of some of the meals were also quite sloppy to say the least.
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.
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.
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.
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!
So what’s next for my Foodies? Restaurant Week!
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.
TGIF! We have 1 week to go until Restaurant Week Jamaica (RW) starts next Friday, November 11 and runs through to Saturday, November 19th.
The Epicurean Category ($4310JMD excluding Bar, GCT, Service Charge) has been a drag with the same Restaurants every year so Suga is excited to make the new addition, L’Escargot in Ocho Rios the top pick overall for Epicurean this year.
Do you have your passport Suga Bears? Ochi here I come!
For those who are doubling up or can’t make it to Ocho Rios for RW, my top pick for Kingston is Rojo Restaurant at the Spanish Court Hotel, which strives to give consistently great service and serve consistently good quality food compared to Terra Nova. Terra Nova usually lives up to their polished reputation for Restaurant Week but Rojo’s menu is Suga’s preferred choice.
Fling Back Friday (#fbf) to RW 2013 at Rojo Restaurant
Marguerites Seafood by the Sea, which was my choice last year, is my top pick this year for Montego Bay. The menus from Sugar Mill and Restaurant at Round Hill haven’t grabbed me. I love that Marguerites revised their RW menu. The Pepper Steak Moderne accompanied by a Caribbean risotto topped with oxtail ragout should be a treat. I was thoroughly impressed by my visit last year, which was perfection.
#fbf RW 2015 at Marguerites!
***For Reservations***
â— L’Escargot
Location: Main Street, Runaway Bay. St. Ann, Ocho Rios
Ph: 973-5652; 973-5589
â— Rojo Restaurant at The Spanish Court Hotel
Location: 1 St. Lucia Avenue. Kingston.
Ph: 926-0000
â— Marguerites Seafood By the Sea
Cloucester Avenue, Montego Bay
Ph: 952-4777
By: Gabrielle Burgess
If you liked this article, follow Suga Lifestyle or like the Suga Lifestyle Facebook page.
Image: The Jamaica Gleaner White Chocolate Cheesecake from The Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel
The Cost of Restaurants in the Epicurean category is $4300JMD and includes an appetizer, salad, main course and dessert. Beverage, GCT and gratuity are additional, so it works out to about $6000JMD per person.
For Kingston, both Rojo Restaurant at Spanish Court Hotel and The Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel are good choices. Rojo may be more suited for a date or party of 4. While Terra Nova may suit bigger parties such as a family affair or dinner/lunch with the coworkers.
Rojo is known to have excellent service and a lovely ambience. Their menu for Restaurant week has finally changed as well. The Pan Seared Shrimp and Lobster with a Herbed Scotch Bonnet Cocktail Sauce and Mixed Greens or Seafood Chowder Flavourful Soup with Calamari, Snapper, Shrimp and Mussels, garnished with Scallion looks great for the Appetizer and Soup.
Terra Nova’s menu seems to have a little more variety and if you are a Lamb or Pork Loin lover, they usually excel with those dishes. Spicily seasoned Salmon cakes served with a Jalapeno Slaw should be a good starter and their White Chocolate Cheesecake with fresh Berry Compote, a delicious conclusion.
Look forward to dressing up and going to these restaurants. That is part of the fun about this category. Gentlemen, button up shirts are a must and no sneakers. Ladies you can still show a little skin and be classy. Flash back Friday to my style in the FLAIR last Monday!
Image: The Jamaica Gleaner FLAIR Magazine (Mikey Wilson) – 9.11.15
***If you haven’t made reservations already, that is a must. Available space goes fast, especially with Rojo.
Contact information and locations for Restaurants:
Rojo Restaurant at Spanish Court Hotel
ADDRESS: 1 St Lucia Avenue Kingston, Jamaica
PHONE: 876-926-0000 Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel
ADDRESS: 7 Waterloo Road, Kingston 10, Jamaica, Kingston
PHONE: 876- 926-2211 Marguerites Seafood by the Sea (Montego Bay)
ADDRESS: Gloucester Ave., Montego Bay, Montego Bay, Jamaica
PHONE: 876-952-4777
SuGa doubted the value for money for Regency’s Lobster Mac and Cheese served with garlic bread and a choice of Dessert shots. But SuGa Readers have spoken, finding it surprisingly satisfying with big chunks of lobster, topped off by tasty dessert shots. The men may need some more protein but this Nyam and Scram option definitely seems to be a good one for the ladies.
