40+ Best Popular Foods & Drinks to Try on Vacation in Jamaica

Jamaica, an island nation located in the Caribbean Sea, is renowned for its enticing cuisine that draws from a rich cultural heritage. A blend of indigenous, African, Indian, and Chinese culinary influences, the food and drink of Jamaica are as diverse and vibrant as the island itself. If you’re planning a vacation to this Caribbean paradise, prepare your palate for an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

The Art of Jamaican Cuisine

Jamaican cuisine is a fusion of flavors, a testament to the island’s colorful history of colonization and migration. From the indigenous Arawaks to African slaves, from Spanish colonizers to Chinese and Indian indentured laborers, each group left its mark on the island’s food culture. The result is a gastronomic tapestry, woven with diverse ingredients, cooking techniques, and flavors that range from sweet and savory to fiery and spicy.

Bold and distinctive, Jamaican cuisine is characterized by its liberal use of seasonings and spices. Central to this is the Jamaican jerk spice, a hot blend of spices that lends a smoky, spicy flavor to meats. Other standout flavors come from the island’s abundant produce, such as ackee, breadfruit, and callaloo, and its love for seafood and meat, particularly goat and chicken.

A Culinary Tour: Must-Try Foods in Jamaica

Ackee and Saltfish

This is Jamaica’s national dish, a delectable combination of the ackee fruit and salted codfish. The ackee, native to West Africa, was brought to Jamaica during the transatlantic slave trade. Today, it’s a staple in Jamaican cuisine, often served alongside salted codfish sautéed with vegetables, herbs, and spices. The dish is traditionally enjoyed for breakfast, but you can savor it any time of the day.

Jerk Chicken

The term ‘jerk’ refers to a unique Jamaican method of cooking wherein meats are marinated with a spicy jerk spice mix before being slow-cooked. Jerk chicken is the most famous variety, boasting a fiery and smoky flavor that is distinctly Jamaican. You can find it at high-end restaurants and roadside stalls alike, often paired with bread or a side of ‘festival’, a sweet fried dough.

Oxtail

Oxtail, the tail of cattle, is a beloved Jamaican dish, stewed to perfection with herbs, spices, and a rich gravy. It’s a hearty dish that is often paired with rice and peas, a popular side dish made from rice and red kidney beans cooked in coconut milk.

Curry Goat

Curried goat is a testament to the Indian influence on Jamaican cuisine. Goat meat is slowly cooked with a medley of spices, yielding a dish that is both flavorful and tender. It’s usually served with rice or roti, an Indian flatbread.

Escovitch Fish

A legacy of the Spanish Jews who once lived on the island, Escovitch fish is a popular seafood dish in Jamaica. It’s prepared by frying a whole fish, typically Red Snapper, and topping it off with pickled vegetables and a spicy vinegar dressing.

Jamaican Patties

These tasty turnovers, filled with spiced meats or vegetables, are a favorite snack in Jamaica. The flaky, golden pastry encases a filling that ranges from beef and chicken to vegetables and even ackee and saltfish, offering a handheld delight that you can enjoy on the go.

Brown Stew Chicken

Brown stew chicken is a classic Jamaican comfort food that will warm your soul. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, then stewed with vegetables until tender and juicy. The result is a rich and hearty dish with a thick and delicious gravy. Brown stew chicken is best enjoyed with rice and peas or traditional Jamaican hard dough bread.

Run Down

Run Down, also known as fish stew, is a mouthwatering dish that showcases the flavors of the Caribbean. The stew is made with garlic, onions, tomatoes, hot peppers, spices, and pieces of fish, such as mackerel or cod. The fish is slow-cooked in coconut milk until it becomes tender and flaky. Run Down is traditionally served with boiled dumplings and green bananas.

Pepper Pot Soup

Pepper pot soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up on a chilly day. This traditional Jamaican soup is made with ingredients like callaloo, okra, coconut milk, ground provisions, and meat. The combination of flavors creates a thick and filling soup that is sure to satisfy your appetite. Pepper pot soup is often enjoyed with bread or festival.

Fish Tea

Don’t let the name fool you, fish tea is not your typical cup of tea. It is actually a spicy fish soup that is packed with flavor. The base of the soup is made with Jamaican Doctor Fish, vegetables, and green bananas. The soup is often described as “energizing” and is believed to have aphrodisiac properties. Fish tea is a popular dish in Jamaica, especially during the holiday season.

Jamaican Corn Soup

Jamaican corn soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light meal or as an appetizer. The soup is made with a combination of ingredients, including onion, garlic, celery, coconut milk, yellow split peas, pumpkin, potatoes, scotch bonnet pepper, ginger, carrots, and corn. The result is a rich and creamy soup with a hint of spice. Jamaican corn soup is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Jamaican Red Peas Soup

Jamaican red peas soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is often enjoyed on Saturdays or as a special treat. The soup is made with a combination of ingredients, including pigtail, beef, red kidney beans, pumpkin, dasheen, pimento seeds, and more. It is best served hot and is often enjoyed with a side of Jamaican hard dough bread. Some say that Jamaican red peas soup is incomplete without a little pigtail!

Traditional Jamaican Side Dishes

1. Rice and Peas

Rice and peas is a staple side dish in Jamaican cuisine. Contrary to its name, peas refer to beans, specifically red kidney beans. The rice is cooked with coconut milk and seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic dish. Rice and peas is often served alongside main dishes like jerk chicken or curry goat.

2. Festival

Festival is a popular Jamaican side dish that is often enjoyed with fried fish or jerk chicken. Festival is made from a mixture of cornmeal, flour, sugar, spices, and milk or water. The dough is shaped into elongated dumplings and deep-fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy and slightly sweet treat that perfectly complements the flavors of Jamaican cuisine.

3. Fried Plantain

Fried plantain is a delicious and addictive side dish that is enjoyed throughout Jamaica. Ripe plantains are peeled, sliced, and then fried until golden brown. The plantains become caramelized, resulting in a sweet and savory flavor. Fried plantain can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with any Jamaican meal.

4. Callaloo

Callaloo is a leafy green vegetable that is commonly served as a side dish in Jamaican cuisine. The greens are sautéed with onions, garlic, and sometimes scotch bonnet peppers, resulting in a flavorful and nutritious side dish. Callaloo is often enjoyed with breakfast or as a side with any main dish.

5. Bammy

Bammy is a traditional Jamaican side dish made from cassava. The cassava root is grated, dipped in coconut milk, and then fried until golden brown. Bammy can be enjoyed at any time of the day and is often served alongside dishes like callaloo or fish escovitch. Some people even enjoy bammy for breakfast with a drizzle of syrup.

6. Breadfruit

Breadfruit is a versatile and nutritious side dish that is commonly enjoyed in Jamaica. It can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, baking, or making it into a puree. Breadfruit is often served alongside main dishes like jerk chicken or curry goat. Its starchy texture and unique flavor make it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

7. Stamp and Go

Stamp and Go, also known as saltfish fritters, are a popular Jamaican breakfast item. The fritters are made with a batter consisting of flour, saltfish, green onions, peppers, and other spices. The name “Stamp and Go” is derived from 18th-century British sailing ship traditions, where officers would shout “Stamp and Go!” to get something done quickly. The fritters are fried until golden brown and make for a delicious and satisfying snack.

8. Coco Bread

Coco bread is a soft and slightly sweet bread that is often enjoyed as a snack or as a side with Jamaican patties. The bread is made with the usual ingredients used in bread making, but coconut milk and sometimes sugar are added to give it a unique flavor. Coco bread is sliced into squares and folded over, making it the perfect vessel for sandwiches or as a snack on its own.

9. Solomon Gundy

Solomon Gundy is a pickled fish pâté that is commonly served with crackers as an appetizer. The dish is made with fish that has been pickled with spices, giving it a tangy and flavorful taste. Solomon Gundy is often enjoyed at social gatherings or as a light snack. The combination of spices and pickled fish creates a unique and delicious flavor.

10. Porridge

Porridge is a popular breakfast option in Jamaica and is often enjoyed as a snack throughout the day. Jamaican porridge can be made with oats, cornmeal, or plantain, and is flavored with a variety of ingredients such as coconut milk, spices, and sweeteners. The result is a creamy and flavorful dish that is both filling and nutritious.

11. Banana Bread

Banana bread is a beloved Caribbean treat that is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. Jamaican banana bread is made with ripe bananas and flavored with spices like nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon. Some variations of Jamaican banana bread also include coconut, lime, and rum, adding a tropical twist to this classic treat. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a cup of coffee, Jamaican banana bread is a delightful snack.

Delicious Jamaican Desserts You’ll Have to Try

1. Sweet Potato Pudding

Sweet potato pudding is a traditional Jamaican dessert that is rich, moist, and full of flavor. The sweet potatoes are finely grated and mixed with ingredients like coconut, brown sugar, raisins, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Some variations also include a sprinkle of rum for added depth of flavor. The mixture is then baked until the top is slightly soft and the bottom is firm. Jamaican sweet potato pudding is a true taste of the Caribbean.

2. Gizzada (Pinch-Me-Round)

Gizzada, also known as “pinch-me-round,” is a delectable Jamaican pastry that is filled with grated coconut, sugar, nutmeg, ginger, and vanilla. The pastry is formed into a small round tart and pinched around the edges for a decorative effect. The filling is gooey and sweet, making it a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth. Gizzada is a popular dessert in Jamaica and is enjoyed on its own or alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

3. Coconut Drops

Coconut drops are a delicious and addictive Jamaican snack made from diced coconut, sugar, and spices. The mixture is dropped onto a banana leaf and allowed to cool, forming a sweet and chewy treat. Coconut drops are loved by both kids and adults and can be found at most local supermarkets in Jamaica.

4. Banana Fritters

Banana fritters are a delightful Jamaican dessert that is made with ripe bananas. The bananas are mashed and mixed with flour, sugar, and spices, then fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy and sweet treat that is perfect for an afternoon snack or as a dessert after a Jamaican meal.

5. Coconut Cake (Toto)

Coconut cake, also known as “toto,” is a traditional Jamaican dessert that is made with grated coconut. The cake is typically flavored with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and sometimes rum is added for an extra kick. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that is loved by locals and visitors alike. Coconut cake is often enjoyed on special occasions or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee.

6. Rum Cake

Rum cake is a decadent and indulgent dessert that is a staple in Jamaican cuisine. The cake is made with a rich and buttery batter infused with Jamaican rum. After baking, the cake is soaked in a rum syrup, which adds moisture and intensifies the flavor. Jamaican rum cake is often enjoyed during the holiday season or as a special treat for celebrations.

A Toast to Jamaican Drinks

Red Stripe Beer

When it comes to Jamaican drinks, Red Stripe Beer is a must-try. A local favorite, this light-bodied beer pairs well with almost any meal. You might also want to try its variations, such as Red Stripe Light and Red Stripe Bold.

Rum Punch

Jamaica is famed for its rum, and what better way to enjoy it than in a refreshing rum punch? Typically made with Jamaican strawberry syrup and white overproof rum, this vibrant drink is a party favorite.

Blue Mountain Coffee

For coffee enthusiasts, a cup of Blue Mountain Coffee is a must. Grown in the Blue Mountains, the highest peaks in the Caribbean, this coffee is considered one of the best and most expensive in the world, cherished for its mild flavor and lack of bitterness.

Sorrel

Sorrel, a hibiscus drink, is a beloved holiday beverage in Jamaica. It’s prepared by boiling the sepals of the hibiscus plant with ginger, water, and sometimes rum, resulting in a refreshing, tangy drink.

Irish Moss

Known as sea moss, Irish moss is a superfood packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. It’s often used to make a creamy, sweet drink that’s not just delicious but also healthy.

Bob Marley Cocktail

The Bob Marley cocktail is a colorful and tropical drink that pays homage to the legendary Jamaican musician. This cocktail features layers of frozen strawberry daiquiri and mango, creating a vibrant and eye-catching drink. The Bob Marley cocktail is a popular choice at bars across Jamaica and is sure to put you in a festive mood.

Manish Water

Manish water is a spicy soup that is believed to have aphrodisiac properties. It is made from goats’ heads, garlic, scallions, green bananas, scotch bonnet peppers, and small dumplings. This flavorful soup is typically served with roasted yam and is often enjoyed at roadside stops rather than restaurants. Manish water is a unique and adventurous drink choice for those looking to try something different in Jamaica.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating drink that is naturally found inside young coconuts. In Jamaica, coconut water is often enjoyed straight from the coconut itself, providing a tropical and rejuvenating experience. The cool and slightly sweet taste of coconut water is the perfect antidote to hot and sunny days on the beach.

Ginger Beer

Ginger beer is a popular Jamaican beverage that is made from fresh ginger root, sugar, and water. The drink has a spicy and invigorating flavor that is both refreshing and soothing. Jamaican ginger beer is often enjoyed on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails. It is the perfect drink for those looking for a little kick and a burst of flavor.

Ting

Ting is a delightful and underrated soft drink made from grapefruit concentrate. This tangy and refreshing beverage is popular in Jamaica and can be enjoyed on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails. With its crisp and citrusy flavor, Ting is the perfect drink for a day at the beach or a tropical getaway.

Malta

Malta is a carbonated malt beverage that is popular in Jamaica. It has a distinct flavor that is both sweet and slightly bitter. Malta is often enjoyed as a refreshing and non-alcoholic alternative to beer. It can be found at most local supermarkets in Jamaica and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Fruit Punch

Fruit punch is a classic and refreshing drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. Jamaican fruit punch is made with a combination of tropical fruits, such as pineapple, mango, and passion fruit, blended with fruit juices and sometimes a splash of rum. The result is a sweet and fruity drink that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Pineapple Ginger Juice

Pineapple ginger juice is a vibrant and flavorful drink that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the spicy kick of ginger. This refreshing combination is perfect for cooling down on a hot day or as a pick-me-up in the morning. Pineapple ginger juice is often enjoyed on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails.

SourSop Juice

SourSop juice is a popular and refreshing drink that is made from the fruit of the sourSop tree. The juice has a unique and slightly tangy flavor that is both refreshing and thirst-quenching. SourSop juice is often enjoyed chilled and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

June Plum Juice

June plum juice is a sweet and tangy drink that is made from the fruit of the June plum tree. The juice has a delightful combination of flavors, including hints of citrus and tropical fruits. June plum juice is often enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails. It is a refreshing and unique drink that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the culinary delights of Jamaica offer something for every palate. From hearty meals to refreshing beverages, every dish and drink tells a story of the island’s rich cultural heritage and its love for good food. So, on your next trip to Jamaica, be sure to indulge in these culinary delights and embark on a flavorful journey through this Caribbean paradise.

For recommendations on some of the best times to visit Jamaica, you can check out our guide here.

—

If you’re traveling to Jamaica alone, ensure you take all the necessary measures to keep safe. Read about how you can stay safe while visiting Jamaica. If you decide to visit any resort, be sure to tag us in your photos and videos @resortcaribbean, and follow our socials: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.