The overall philosophy in Jamaica is a worry-free enjoyment of life, & there's no doubt you'll quickly adopt this perspective while on a luxury vacation here. The laid-back attitude is infectious – it's in the reggae music, the balmy breezes & breathtaking views, & even in the delicious cuisine. Because once you take a bite of the food at one of the top restaurants here, you're bound to forget about anything else you were stressed over.
Here are a few of the top places that will make you feel like a native Jamaican:
Scotchie's If it's an authentic, Jerk-meal you're seeking followed by a round of dominoes, Scotchie's is the place. Situated close to many of the Ocho Rios all inclusive resorts, this quaint eatery has a certain charm with a thatched roof full-service bar, grass umbrellas & barrel stools. After snagging a spot at a wooden table, you'll be served up steaming hot foil-wrapped pork, chicken, fish or sausage. All of the dishes here have a substantial kick, but an icy cold Red Stripe is the perfect answer to any overwhelming spiciness. The traditional side dishes, which include festival, breadfruit, rice & peas & roasted yams, pair perfectly with the smoky meats.
Rick's Cafe It's no surprise that Rick's was voted as having the Best Happy Hour by Caribbean Travel + Life readers. This restaurant boasts an incomparable view from the cliffs of Negril, as well as an innovative menu. The stunning sunset isn't the only thing you'll see from this spot, either. Daring divers have been known to take a leap nearby from awe-inspiring heights into the sparkling water. While you watch the impromptu show, nosh on the Hurricane Blackened Tuna or the spicy Escoveitch Snapper. You can always go all out with the world-famous surf & turf, but make sure to leave room for the Bombastic Banana Rum Cake, served warm & a la mode. No matter what night you go, Rick's in-house band provides authentic reggae jams.
Redbones Blues Cafe Between romantic terraces & private gardens, the intimacy at Redbones cannot be matched. On top of that, this jazz-themed Caribbean fusion restaurant hosts a bevy of cultural events, including live music, poetry slams, art exhibitions, theatrical productions & foreign film screenings. That's not to say the food isn't also a highlight. With dishes like Red Stripe-marinated grilled smoke pork loin with caramelized tropical fruit & poached glazed salmon with Piquant Tamarind sauce, you'll have a difficult time deciding on your order. Plus, the drinks are two-for-one Monday through Friday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. So you & a friend can enjoy those frozen mint Caipirinha & spiced Piña Coladas without racking up a big bar tab.
