Top 7 Best Jamaican Restaurants in New York

New York City’s vibrant culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors from around the globe, and the rich, aromatic dishes of Jamaica are no exception. Whether you’re craving a plate of spicy jerk chicken or the comforting flavors of a well-cooked oxtail stew, our guide to the Top 7 Best Jamaican Restaurants in New York will take you on a flavorful journey through the best the city has to offer.

When choosing the perfect Jamaican restaurant, consider the following aspects:

Authenticity: Look for restaurants that offer traditional dishes prepared with genuine Jamaican spices and techniques.
Atmosphere: Many Jamaican spots boast a lively, colorful ambiance that mirrors the vibrant culture of the Caribbean.
Service: Friendly and welcoming service can enhance your dining experience, making you feel right at home.
Menu Variety: A diverse menu featuring both classic dishes and modern interpretations can offer something for every palate.
Price Range: From affordable spots to more upscale dining experiences, there’s something to fit every budget, with typical dishes ranging from $10 to $30.

Let our guide help you discover the best places to enjoy the bold and delicious flavors of Jamaica without leaving New York City.

1. Miss Lily's 7A Cafe
2. Miss Lily's
3. Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant

4. Mangoville
5. Peppa’s Jerk Chicken
6. One Stop Patty Shop
7. Wat's On Your Plate

Number of companies

3468

Verified reviews

4,14

Average rating

(212)8121482

1. Miss Lily's 7A Cafe

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

109 Avenue A, 10009.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant
Caribbean restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Miss Lily’s 7A Cafe offers a vibrant and modern take on classic Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine, appealing to those seeking a lively dining experience. With locations in New York City, Dubai, and Negril, this sunny Caribbean diner is known for its friendly and cool-as-can-be staff. The atmosphere is enriched with bold colors, vibrant patterns, and vintage-style booths, complemented by a state-of-the-art music system. Diners can enjoy a vast selection of the Caribbean’s finest rums while DJs spin the latest reggae, soca, afrobeat, and dancehall tunes, making it a hotspot for both locals and visitors.

In addition to its dining services, Miss Lily’s provides a full catering menu to enhance any event with the flavors of the Caribbean. A portion of the restaurant’s profits supports the Rockhouse Foundation, which is dedicated to transforming educational spaces for Jamaica’s children and supporting educators. This commitment to community and culture, combined with its vibrant dining experience, makes it a standout choice for inclusion in our directory.

(212)8121482

2. Miss Lily's

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,3/5

132 W Houston St, 10012.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Caribbean restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Miss Lily’s stands out as a vibrant Jamaican diner offering a retro vibe and a modern twist on classic Jamaican cooking. With locations in New York City, Dubai, and Negril, this Caribbean restaurant is known for its friendly staff and colorful atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a vast selection of the Caribbean’s finest rums while DJs spin the latest reggae, soca, afrobeat, and dancehall tunes, creating an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s menu features authentic Jamaican dishes, perfect for brunch or any time, and also offers a full catering service for events.

Emphasizing community support, a portion of the restaurant’s profits goes to the Rockhouse Foundation, which aims to enhance educational facilities in Jamaica. This initiative underlines the company’s commitment to giving back and supporting education. With bold colors, vintage-style booths, and a state-of-the-art music system, the establishment provides an engaging environment for guests. Their dedication to quality service and authentic cuisine makes them a worthy addition to our directory, showcasing not just a restaurant but a cultural experience.

(917)6757477

3. Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,1/5

2143 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, 10027.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant

Why we chose them

Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant offers an authentic taste of Jamaican cuisine, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to the heart of New York. Specializing in traditional Jamaican dishes, the restaurant is renowned for its mouthwatering jerk chicken, spicy jerk ribs, and savory Caribbean oxtail stew. Each dish is meticulously prepared using a proprietary Jerk Spice Blend, capturing the essence of Jamaican culinary heritage. The menu not only highlights classic jerk chicken but also innovative creations like Caribbean Jerk Fried Chicken, providing a fiery and flavorful experience that transports diners to the islands with every bite.

Founded in the Bronx, the restaurant’s success has fueled its expansion into multiple locations, underscoring its mission to make Caribbean cuisine a national favorite. Driven by a passion for authentic cooking and strict quality standards, the restaurant embraces the rich diversity of its clientele and aims to introduce the unique intensity of jerk flavors to a wider audience. With a commitment to exceptional customer experiences, the establishment embodies the spirit of Jamaican hospitality and culinary excellence, poised to lead a new wave of Caribbean cuisine popularity across the country.

(646)8508101

4. Mangoville

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,0/5

1980 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, 10026.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant
Caribbean restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Mangoville is a delightful culinary gem known for its authentic homestyle Caribbean fare, offering patrons a taste of the islands in a relaxed, casual setting. The restaurant has carved out a niche for itself as both a Jamaican restaurant and a broader Caribbean restaurant, appealing to food lovers eager for a genuine island dining experience. With its inviting atmosphere and dedication to traditional flavors, it stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking delicious, soulful Caribbean cuisine.

Chosen for our directory due to its commitment to providing a warm and inviting dining experience, this restaurant exemplifies the rich, vibrant culinary traditions of the Caribbean. Its focus on authenticity and homestyle preparation sets it apart, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors. The combination of flavorful dishes and a welcoming ambiance makes this establishment a standout choice for those looking to indulge in the rich tastes of the Caribbean.

(646)7981395

5. Peppa’s Jerk Chicken

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 3,8/5

493 2nd Ave, 10016.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Food court
Caribbean restaurant
Lunch restaurant
Restaurant
Soul food restaurant

Why we chose them

Peppa’s Jerk Chicken is a culinary gem in New York, offering a vibrant taste of the Caribbean through its diverse range of services including a Jamaican restaurant, brunch, and soul food options. Known for its signature jerk chicken, the restaurant delivers a smoky, spicy flavor that has captivated locals and visitors alike. With locations in New York and Brooklyn, Peppa’s ensures accessibility through convenient delivery and pickup services, catering to those within a two-mile radius. The restaurant’s commitment to authentic flavors and quality service makes it a standout choice for anyone craving Caribbean cuisine.

In addition to its renowned jerk chicken, Peppa’s offers a menu filled with Caribbean delights that cater to various tastes, from crispy fish to creamy mac and cheese. The restaurant prides itself on supporting the local community by encouraging direct orders through its website, bypassing third-party platforms. This dedication to customer satisfaction and community support further solidifies its reputation as a beloved culinary destination. Peppa’s inviting atmosphere and flavorful dishes make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine.

(212)4917466

6. One Stop Patty Shop

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,4/5

1708 Amsterdam Ave, 10031.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

One Stop Patty Shop is a beloved Jamaican restaurant nestled in the heart of Harlem, New York City. Known for its traditional Jamaican patties, breads, cakes, and homemade drinks, this eatery brings the authentic flavors of Jamaica to NYC. Every 20 minutes, fresh patties are baked on the premises, ensuring a hot and delightful experience for every customer. Patrons can enjoy their patties solo or pair them with coco bread and cheese for a unique twist. The restaurant prides itself on offering a taste of Jamaica, capturing the island’s vibrant spirit and culinary tradition.

Beyond its renowned patties, the restaurant offers a selection of homemade Jamaican drinks like D&G soda, sorrel, and ginger beer, enhancing the authentic dining experience. With its commitment to quality and homemade goodness, One Stop Patty Shop has become a local favorite, providing a comforting slice of Jamaica in the bustling streets of Harlem. This dedication to authenticity and taste is why the company stands out in our directory, offering an unparalleled taste of the Caribbean in the city.

(212)2344411

7. Wat's On Your Plate

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4,1/5

513 W 145th St, 10031.0, New York

Jamaican restaurant
Restaurant

Why we chose them

Wats On Your Plate brings the vibrant flavors of Jamaica and the Caribbean to the bustling streets of New York City, offering a unique fusion twist on traditional dishes. This culinary gem delights diners with its menu featuring Jamaican curry, Jerk Chicken, Oxtail, and Roti, ensuring an unforgettable experience for those seeking a departure from typical NYC fare. As the only restaurant of its kind in the area, Wats On Your Plate stands out for its commitment to authentic island-style food, promising an enticing dining adventure that will leave taste buds craving more.

With locations strategically placed in the heart of NYC, Wats On Your Plate makes it convenient for patrons to indulge in their Caribbean cravings. The restaurant enhances its service by offering delivery through popular platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Postmates, and GrubHub, allowing customers to enjoy their flavorful dishes from the comfort of their homes. As they prepare to expand their offerings with an upcoming liquor license, Wats On Your Plate continues to elevate the dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for Caribbean food enthusiasts.

FAQs

What are the typical services offered by Jamaican restaurants in New York?

Jamaican restaurants in New York typically offer a range of services, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery. Some may also provide catering for events and special occasions.

What is the average price range for a meal at a Jamaican restaurant in New York?

The average price range for a meal at a Jamaican restaurant in New York is typically between €9 and €28, depending on the dish and the dining experience.

How can I choose a good Jamaican restaurant in New York?

To choose a good Jamaican restaurant, consider the authenticity of the dishes, the atmosphere, the quality of service, menu variety, and customer reviews.

What should I consider when looking for authentic Jamaican food in New York?

Look for restaurants that use traditional Jamaican spices and cooking techniques. Authenticity can also be reflected in the ambiance and the cultural elements of the restaurant.

Are there Jamaican restaurants in New York that offer vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes, many Jamaican restaurants in New York offer vegetarian and vegan options, often featuring dishes like callaloo, ackee, or plantain-based meals.

Is it necessary to make reservations at Jamaican restaurants in New York?

While it's not always necessary, making reservations is recommended for popular spots, especially during peak dining hours or weekends.

Can I find Jamaican restaurants in New York that cater to large groups or events?

Yes, many Jamaican restaurants offer catering services for large groups and special events. It's advisable to contact the restaurant directly to discuss options and availability.

What are the timelines for dining at a Jamaican restaurant in New York?

Timelines can vary, but typically, dining at a Jamaican restaurant may take about 1 to 2 hours, including time for ordering, eating, and enjoying the atmosphere.