Jameela’s Guide To Caribbean Eats In South Florida

Jrk

My go to order at JRK! is the build your own bowl because you can customize it exactly how you like it. The flavors are always on point, and I love grabbing a bottle of their signature sauces to bring home and recreate the experience. The lounge area is also a vibe, making it a great spot to sit back, relax, and enjoy your meal.

Finger Lickin Patties-Pastries

I’ve been coming to Finger Lickin for over a decade, and their Jamaican beef patties are still my favorite in South Florida. They’re perfectly flaky on the outside, juicy on the inside, and even better tucked inside a warm cocoa bread. Pair it with a lemonade or a cold Kola Champagne, and you’ve got the perfect Jamaican comfort meal.

Joy’s Roti Delight

I’ve been eating at Joy’s for as long as I can remember, and it’s still one of my favorite spots for roti. The wait can be long, but trust me, it’s worth it. I always recommend ordering some pholourie on the side those little fried dough balls are perfect for dipping into their pepper sauce. It’s the kind of place that keeps you coming back for years.

Tabanka A Trini Kitchen Restaurant

If you’re visiting Tabanka, do yourself a favor and order the doubles. They’re soft, flavorful, and packed with the perfect balance of curry chickpeas and pepper sauce. As someone with Trinidadian roots, I’m always looking for a great doubles spot, and Tabanka never disappoints.

Dukunoo Jamaican Kitchen

Dukunoo is one of my favorite places when I want both great food and a great atmosphere. The oxtail with rice and peas is always my go to, and the meat is tender and packed with flavor. Beyond the food, I love the upscale setting, live music, and energetic vibes that make every visit feel like a celebration.

Lorna's Caribbean & American Grill

I ordered the jerk chicken with rice and peas and mac and cheese, and everything was full of flavor. The jerk chicken was well seasoned with just the right amount of spice, and the sides made it a comforting, satisfying meal. If you’re looking for authentic Jamaican cuisine in South Florida, Lorna’s is definitely worth a visit.

Chef Reece Kitchen

The oxtail pasta at Chef Reece is worth every bite. It’s rich, cheesy, and loaded with tender oxtail that practically falls off the bone. If you’re trying it for the first time, this is the dish I’d recommend ordering because it’s the perfect combination of comfort food and Caribbean flavor.

Cleveland’s Old Fashion Ice Cream

Cleveland’s is more than just an ice cream shop it’s a local success story. Founder Cleveland worked with the owner of Jaxson’s Ice Cream before opening his own business, and that passion shows in every scoop. I love supporting this Black owned South Florida staple and introducing friends to its homemade flavors and welcoming atmosphere.

The Katherine Restaurant

The Katherine feels like a place where every dish has a story. I love the oxtail, but what makes this restaurant special is learning about the family behind it. Owner Timon Balloo named the restaurant after his wife, Katherine, and that personal touch carries throughout the experience. The food is creative, flavorful, and made with heart.

Manjay restaurant

Whenever I visit Manjay, I have to order the pickliz and hard plantains. The pickliz adds the perfect amount of heat and tang, while the plantains bring the crunch. I also love how the menu reflects Caribbean flavors from across the islands, making it a great place to explore something new while still feeling connected to home.

1804 Pizza & Fritay

1804 puts a Haitian twist on some of your favorite comfort foods, and the oxtail pizza is a must order. The oxtail was incredibly tender, the cheese was perfectly melted, and every bite was packed with flavor. I also hear the griot pizza is a fan favorite among regulars. Beyond the pizzas, the menu includes chop bowls and quesadillas, making it easy to find something for everyone while experiencing a unique take on Haitian inspired cuisine.