Jamaican Gates Restaurant

5

53

15

7 months ago

Service was fast, the food was excellent and the prices are reasonable. I ordered the lunch special and it included chicken, red beans and rice and cabbage for under $8. All of the food was perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Asia B.

129

110

516

2 years ago

Four years later and still ordering from here. The food is always good and fresh. I often joke with KiKi, the owner about giving me the light skin sisters lol I'm referring to the wings. She knows that I don't like them grilled to dark. They make a very unique orange colored gravy that I haven't had from any other jerk spot. They also started selling turkey spaghetti. I could legit eat jerk from here EVERDAY. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Six wing dinner extra gravy, swap the cabbage for Mac and cheese. My order EVERYTIME - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

D J.

1

67

12

1 year ago

Friendly service and good food!! I haven't had a bad meal yet. My only complaint is that they close early.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kennedy W.

Elite 24

29

61

310

2 years ago

FINALLY, SOME GREAT SOUL JAMAICAN FOOD! Strictly to-go ordering, no seating available. Clean, organized service. Quick and efficient. Recommend calling ahead to avoid any wait time. Ordered the oxtail dinner with red beans and rice underneath, collar greens, Mac n cheese, candy yams, and a slice of toast. Oxtail was fall-off-the-bone good, all the sides were just as good and flavorful. The candy yams were so soft and sweet, perfect addition to whole plate. Will definitely be back! Whenever I want a true Southern plate, this is my first choice. Excited about trying more dishes, others in line were raving about the chicken. 15/10 Recommend! I wouldn't hesitate at all. I know I won't. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Oxtails Dinner with Greens, Macaroni & Cheese, Candy Yams, Red Beans and Rice, and Toast. YUMMY! - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Oxtails Dinner NEVER DISAPPOINTS - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Krystal J.

110

157

112

2 years ago

I have lived near this place for YEARS!! How did I never think to stop in here, I do not know. I rectified that mistake this weekend when visiting my grandma and mom by satisfying my jerk craving. I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in and the service was so friendly! It's a hole in the wall and there is no seating so call ahead to place your order and limit your wait time. We ordered the jerk catfish dinner and oxtails dinner both were fire!! The actual jerk was not very spicy which I was fine with but the sauce that comes with it brings the heat. My grandma said the oxtails were tender and the greens were good too better than the cabbage imo. Definitely check it out if you're in the Washington Heights area. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Marcius P.

184

7

21

2 years ago

My mother & I had the jerk catfish dinner and the curry goat dinner. Everything was delicious and very fresh. One of our very favorite Caribbean restaurants in Chicago. read more

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Fist W.

5.4 mi•Marquette Park, Chicago Lawn

4

178

82

2 years ago

I enjoy the food at Jamaica gates restaurant . I've order there numerous times and it's been fine. Sometimes it's important to order new things, things you haven't tried before to get a well rounded view of an restaurant experience read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 1

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ayano N.

Elite 25

74

140

96

3 years ago

Called ahead for a pick up order. Order was ready when I arrived in a timely manner. The restaurant is simple, clean, with no sitting area (to-go only). The food was mediocre. Chicken was dry, greens were bland, cabbage was average, and they charged an extra $2.50 for macaroni, but gave the smallest portion of macaroni. I would likely choose another jerk restaurant over this one, since there's so many in the near vicinity. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 1

Love this 0

Oh no 1

Tainesha R.

87

14

5

2 years ago

I love this place and I've been going for years. The food is always fresh and so flavorful. Recently I just started ordering the escovitch fish and it is amazing! This dish reminds of Jamaica when I visited a place called Border. The customer service is great I've never had a problem. It is just a small restaurant so there is no ambiance to judge as it is not that type of establishment but if you want delicious authentic Jamaican food please go there! read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

David M.

3

2

0

2 years ago

The food was fresh and flavorful. Called in order and order was ready exactly when I was told to pick up the order

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Naiya R.

0

21

24

2 years ago

The red beans and rice with oxtail gravy was delicious. The meat and beans were very tender. The portions served are well worth your money. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Red Beans and Rice - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Nicole B.

0

9

0

3 years ago

The food is always good. I had the jerk catfish dinner as well as a jerk chicken dinner. Sides were cabbage (the best) Peas and rice , very good Sweet potatoes so good It's a yes for me read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Renaldo J.

0

16

2

2 years ago

At one time I had great things to say about Jamaican gates, but lately I've ordered through the food delivery app and each of the last few times they've given me reheated day old chicken, while it's easy to reheat beef, but not chicken after it's been refrigerated, not cool . read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 2

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Faye S.

159

47

59

3 years ago

One of my favorite jerk spots in Chicago I will travel just to order from them even if I can't get somebody close by there to pick it up for me .. for me read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Sean V.

Elite 23

571

27

16

4 years ago

After so much praise from friends, I expected to be blown away by this place. Unfortunately, I would describe the food is quite mediocre. I placed an order for the quarter dark jerk chicken lunch special Right as the restaurant opened to have what I thought would be the best experience for fresh and flavorful food. My chicken was near bland, the rice and peas were watery and the cabbage did not have much flavor to speak of other than salt. The candied sweet potatoes were pretty good. The staff was nice, and I've been told that there's a difference in quality between the lunch specials and the dinner specials, which I don't understand as I imagine the difference between the two exist in size of portions. I have decided that I will give Jamaican gates another shot at dinner on another occasion, but the first impression was not very good honestly. read more

Helpful 3

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Dominique B.

0

1

3 years ago

Every time I order the oxtails are tiny. Not worth spending the money.You only get one medium sized oxtail when you order a large plate which only comes with 3 pieces anyway. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - a close up of a meal in a styrofoam container - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Chicagoavonlady D.

5

10

2

3 years ago

This is the very 1st Jerk restaurant where EVERYTHING was good and fresh. I had oxtails, jerk chicken, cabbage, Mac and Cheese, yams, peas and rice, and plantain. My Ma had a full dark jerk chicken dinner as well. The Mac and cheese was seasoned to perfection and cheesy as ever (no egg; baked). The yams not overly sweet, jerk chicken just right. The cabbage is consistently good. Only disappointment was the size oxtail they give is small. (4 little pieces and 2 big. Thats everywhere though) EVERYTHING was hot, and did I say fresh?? glad it's right around my Mas house. I'll be eating here much more often!! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kae K.

Elite 21

4

31

34

5 years ago

Unfortunately it just wasn't very good. My party ordered oxtail and curry goat and none of us enjoyed our food. Two of my party members were Jamaican. I had the oxtail and it was tender but too fatty and the gravy was thin, light, and not tasty nor well seasoned. I hate to leave bad reviews, especially at a Black-owned spot, but I hate that I spent $25 on a meal I didn't even enjoy. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kennedi S.

0

3

8

5 years ago

This place is great! The portions are huge, my bag felt like it was 10 pounds . I got the combo plate with brown stewed chicken and oxtails and a small side of Mac. The chicken was tender and juicy, the oxtails were super tender. The Mac was more cheesy and less creamy but still good and the small was enough for 2. I called my order in around lunch time and my food was ready within the 30 minutes or less that it took me to get there. I'll definitely be back. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Mac n cheese - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Oxtails & Chicken Combo Dinner w Brown stew chicken - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Tilashua G.

91

50

8

3 years ago

Wasn't expecting this food at all. I was in town visiting my friends family and lawd knows I love good food, so this spot was recommended. Well, I had oxtails, red beans with rice, and cabbage oh and a yam. Every single morsel was delicious. The yams were my favorite but all was well. I do wish they had a nice cornbread muffin instead of the plain white bread, but again all was well. I will visit again in the future. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Chaniqua C.

Elite 23

160

92

192

6 years ago

Nope, I used to love this place. The food hasn't been consistent though. This $13 salad has the driest chicken ever on it. In addition, I've had catfish dinners that were tough. Who wants to eat tough catfish? That's Gross! Do better small business, Do better!!! read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Dry Chicken Choke Salad - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 3

Oh no 0

Vince M.

257

40

8

4 years ago

Ordered a whole white, with 2 sides, red beans and rice and yams. The sides were great. The chicken was as dry as Southern California in the summer, and the jerk sauce seemed extremely watery, as though watered down to last. I have been going to another place near me, and the steep prices always bothered me. This place has great prices, but when I tasted the chicken I immediately understood the reason in the pricing. It was edible, and had a good flavor, but I can get dry chicken from anywhere. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Rea W.

131

7

1

5 years ago

I ordered an oxtail dinner, it was okay, the mac was a big dissapointment..it taste like greasy powdered cheese sauce mixed with American cheese poured over mushy macaroni. leave the mac alone and opt for another dish read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Oxtails, redheads and rice, mac and cheese, sweet potatoes, plantains - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Gea G.

1

62

11

4 years ago

I purchased 1 whole jerk chicken and jerk chicken pasta...jerk chicken was just OK...jerk chicken pasta super super spicy(I love spicy food) just wanted to warn people whom don't like spicy pasta read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Carla H.

0

8

4

3 years ago

Great jerk catfish, which is always what me and my husband orders... prices are not too bad for jerk dinners.

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kemba C.

0

1

0

3 years ago

Great service best to call ahead to get faster service. Wonderful deals and no shortage on your plate .

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Molly B.

27

109

219

9 years ago

Ordered two platters. Curry chicken for my daughter and 6 jerk chicken wings for myself. How do you know what love is? It's a great plate of food. Unfortunately, my daughter inhaled her curry chicken so I couldn't get a pic. My jerk wings were very flavorful. There was so much rick that I had enough for two servings. I did not like the cabbage, because it had onions and green peppers in it. Never tasted it like that before. Plus they were overcooked. The plantain that came with the meal was so soft as sweet. Perfect, just like the kind my granny used to make in Panama. My dish also came with a slice of bread and some extra sauce. The jerk wing platter came in one size only which was fine by me. It was size delicious. The service wasn't rude. Just a little abrupt, but it reminded me of being back home, so I wasn't put off. My order didn't take long. Maybe 10 mins. We went on Friday around 2:30 pm. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - 6 jerk wings platter - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 3

Thanks 0

Love this 2

Oh no 0

Broyjam16 B.

0

57

30

3 years ago

Food is consistently tasty. However, selection of fish pieces are not appetizing. Instead of fillets or steaks, they serve pieces that wouldn't normally be chosen. I just wonder what they do with the rest of the fish. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 1

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jes G.

7

77

18

5 years ago

Very hit or miss. When it's good it's great but when it's bad it's terrible. The lack of consistency is why I don't go here often even though it's closer to me than other places. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Martha K.

1

29

39

5 years ago

My friend brought us food from here even after a 6hrs drive to St. Paul and a quick steam reheated the food was good. I had some for breakfast still good I will visit when in Chicago read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Menu - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Cindy V.

139

25

17

7 years ago

The food is ok. The jerk chicken was a lil dry yet spicy. The food tastes homemade, authentic. The cabbage has a strong garlic flavor which I love so I was happy about that. I felt that the mac and cheese was a little bland but it was very cheesy. So while I have had better jerk chicken this wasnt bad. read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - $6 lunch special jerk chicken and cabbage - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Denise D.

0

9

0

4 years ago

Very good Jamaican food and friendly staff! I definitely would recommend this fine establishment!

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Neva D.

2

55

13

7 years ago

I used to rave about this place. Noooot anymore. I am mad that I spent my hard-earned money on the oxtail and goat dinner. The only thing tasty was the cabbage. I spent more time taking bones out of my mouth. SMDH...never again. Don't do it to yourself! read more

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Small mac n cheese $4 - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Oxtail and goat dinner $19.00 Don't do it. It taste just like it looks. - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Jamaican Gates Restaurant - Small yams $4 - Caribbean Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kendall R.

199

1

7 years ago

This restaurant is soooo good. Best Jamaican jerk chicken I have had. The quality of the food is very good. The chicken is juicy and has nice spice. The beans and rice are delicious along with the Mac and cheese and yams. The service was amazing and the people there are friendly and got the food out hot, fresh, and in a very timely manner. I will definitely be returning and I suggest that others check it out as well! read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

HIdejah Z.

0

15

20

5 years ago

The Goldie is legit. Sometimes you get way too much rice but the chicken is consistently good

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Ursula P.

Elite 19

276

302

4639

6 years ago

I saw this deal via Groupon and I looked forward to some Jamaican cuisine . First off the staff was friendly . I chose to get Jerk Catfish , peas and rice and Mac n cheese . For dessert I chose bread pudding. Everything I ate was just okay. There was nothing to make me come back again unfortunately. They did give good portions I must say . read more

Helpful 4

Thanks 0

Love this 3

Oh no 0

Deja F.

143

17

0

5 years ago

Came here for the first time the other day and I loved their jerk chicken/jerk sauce. Food didn't take forever and a day either. I definitely will be back again. read more

Helpful 1

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Jacquelyne W.

Elite 21

133

89

427

8 years ago

This is the first time trying there food!! Call order in I order Large jerk dinner and just jerk only. I don't care how Verbage went between me and the man on the phone just as my FOOD is good and fresh. Damn it was both!!! It look dry and well?? But the Jerk chicken was juicy and spicy like it should be. Cabbage also good soft but not mushy. I have a New place for Jerk Chicken!!! I didn't pick it up I sent my daughter. She said the wait was Short. read more

Helpful 2

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Kimberly L.

2

18

5

6 years ago

My first time eating here, and I was so pleasantly surprised. I'll be back for more. No complaints about the service. They are very professional. Thoroughly enjoyed my experience. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 0

Oh no 0

Lori M.

42

4

0

6 years ago

The food is good but the service is crappy as hell especially the guy that normally takes the orders, just straight ignorant!!! When you order ahead it doesn't matter, they don't give you a number or anything to attach you to your order. They hardly ever have catfish or not enough for a full order. read more

Helpful 0

Thanks 0

Love this 1

Oh no 0

Page 1 of 2

See more reviews

More info about Jamaican Gates Restaurant

10226 S Halsted St
Chicago, IL 60628
Brainerd, Washington Heights
Directions
(773) 779-1708
Call Now
Visit Website
https://jamaicangates.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Jamaican Gates Restaurant open?

Jamaican Gates Restaurant opens at 11:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Jamaican Gates Restaurant close?

Jamaican Gates Restaurant closes at 8:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Jamaican Gates Restaurant closes at 7:00 PM on Sunday.

Mon-Sat 11:00 AM - 8:00 PMSun 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant take credit cards?

Yes, Jamaican Gates Restaurant takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant have catering options?

Yes, Jamaican Gates Restaurant does have catering options.

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant serve alcohol?

No, Jamaican Gates Restaurant does not serve alcohol.

Indoor Amenities

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant have TVs?

Yes, Jamaican Gates Restaurant has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant have bike parking?

No, Jamaican Gates Restaurant does not have bike parking.

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant have outdoor seating?

Yes, Jamaican Gates Restaurant has outdoor seating options.

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant have parking?

Yes, Jamaican Gates Restaurant has parking options. Street Parking, Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Jamaican Gates Restaurant have free WiFi?

No, Jamaican Gates Restaurant does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Jamaican Gates is The real taste of Jamaica. All the tasty flavors and vibes brought to Chicago!

More Info

Health Score

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for Caribbean 4,152 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Explore benefits

Garifuna Flava

4.3(439 reviews)

Today was one of those days where I needed a GOOD meal. I'm talking it feels like love is in the…read morefood and I am so happy that I chose Garifuna! I grabbed the 2 meat, 3 side special which included: stewed chicken, jerk chicken, rice and peas, cabbage and plantains. There's a solid amount of food and I'm going to be eating on this over the next two days. There's rice and peas were incredibly flavorful, moist and had a hint of spice. The stewed chicken's skin was falling off! That's how tender it was and I love anything with bell peppers and onions. The cabbage was solid with great crunch. Sometimes it can get too mushy, but this didn't. The plantains were just right!! Great palate cleanser as I transitioned to the jerk chicken! And the jerk chicken was a hit!!! Good amount of spice and flavor! And juicy! I also had extra jerk sauce on the side. Hmmmm I honestly enjoyed both chickens and would say if you're unsure of which to get, just get both... you'll definitely order from here again lol I ordered through uber eats and naturally was PRAYING that my order was correct and it was. A nice hefty serving and of course I also have a slice of the caramel cake. Mannn this slice of cake is so dang delicious. The two miles that I run tomorrow for this will be so worth it! This hit the spot and was the meal I needed after the day that I've had!

Years ago, Garifuna used to have a pop-up in the lobby of the building where I worked. I liked the…read moreofferings and the food was always a hit. I had never been to the brick-and-mortar location until now. I stopped in one Sunday afternoon to a restaurant that was not busy on the inside. I noticed there was a steady stream of individuals coming in for carryout. Nevertheless, I had a sit-down so that I could try a few items. I ordered the Belizean appetizer sampler. This came as panades, garnaches, and conch fritters. I liked the panades, which were corn patties stuffed with buffalo fish. They were nice and flavorful. The garnaches reminded me of Venezuelan tostadas. I think that what was a miss for this dish was the drizzle of ketchup. Since I stopped using condiments from grocery stores, the flavor of such tends to ruin dishes for me. I liked the conch fritters. I would order those by the bagful just to have for snacks. My main dish was the stew chicken with rice and beans and a side of plantains. Surprisingly, this was more like baked chicken. There was no hint of cumin, cloves, or garlic. There were no tomatoes. There wasn't a sauce or a gravy. There was flavor, of which I give them that, but the same stew that I've had in Belize and in my Belizean friends' home was not served here. It very well may be that the dish prepared here simply differs from that which I have had before. It wasn't a bad thing. Not everyone prepares every dish the same way.

Menu along wall and decor.

Delish Jerk Chicken (Plus 2 Sides) Rice & Beans and Mac & Cheese

See all

Outside

Jerky Jerk

4.2(193 reviews)

11.3 mi•Tri-Taylor

Jerky Jerk is THE SPOT!…read more We wanted something better than stadium food before the Bulls game. And the three of us love Jamaican food, specifically, jerk chicken and curry goat. So as soon as Jerky Jerk showed up on my Yelp search, I knew my search had ended, and that we found our pre-game dinner spot. Jerky Jerk blew my expectations out of the water. I'm a Chicago native, but I live in LA, where I'm lucky to be surrounded by many delicious Jamaican food spots. But Jerky Jerk has the best jerk chicken I've ever had. When I say that the smoky, slightly sweet, tender, fall-of-the-bone experience hit the spot, I mean that it HIT THE SPOT! Even the rice & peas and cabbage were cooked and spiced to perfection. All three of us devoured our plates in about ten minutes. I also love the colorful and lively Chicago sports murals that fill each wall, as well as the hospitable and vibrant service from the owners. They absolutely rock. They throw a party inside, and they make you feel welcomed and right at home. Jerky Jerk is now a non-negotiable stop when visiting Chicago. This place slaps.

I was craving plantains so we ordered delivery, and OMG this is probably one of the best chicken…read moreand candied yams I've ever had! The chicken was grilled to perfection! The meat was juicy, the seasoning was delicious and the sauce that came with it was tangy, sweet and wasn't too spicy. But those candied yams OMG! They weren't overly sweet that it hurts your throat but just the right amount to satisfy your sweet tooth! They must have added some fruit like pineapple because it added a little tangy kick that balances so well with the sweetness and added another dimension! We will have to try this place in person next time!

Two Pick any 2 Meats & 2 Side

See all

Plantain (6)

Ponce Kitchen Sabor

4.7(6 reviews)

15.7 mi•Hermosa

Overall giving this place a 4/5! It's hard to find good Puerto Rican food so was really happy to…read moresee one and the menu looked good!! The pork was really flavorful and the rice was wonderful too. Really large portions which I can't be mad about lol. Loveeeee the tostones, some of the best I ever had and the creama dip was the icing on the cake. I had to take off 1 star because unfortunately my Habichuelas were missing....like there was rarely any beans in the bowl :( which makes me sad because I loveeeee them so much. Note - i ordered from Uber eats and did not visit the restaurant in person.

The chicken and pork chops was so yummy the service it's nice and friendly, you just feel in home…read morebecause they have a lot of regular clients they already know the clients name and prefer orders . Price are fare and parking easy to get

Ponce Kitchen Sabor - El Jibarito - Steak, Maduros - Sweet Fried Plantains, Tostones - Crispy Twice-Fried Plantains and Pollo Guisado - Homestyle Chicken Stew

El Jibarito - Steak, Maduros - Sweet Fried Plantains, Tostones - Crispy Twice-Fried Plantains and Pollo Guisado - Homestyle Chicken Stew

Sopa de Pollo / Chicken Soup

See all

Chillo Frito y Arroz con Gandules / Fried Red Snapper & Rice with Pigeon Peas

The Perfect Jerk

3.7(73 reviews)

16.1 mi

We ordered from here last week. The dinners were packed with food. My son who is a cook loved the…read morejerk chicken, I loved the Mac n cheese. It was very tasty. The owner even let me try a margarita on the house. Very strong. A lot of the orders are to go. I didn't see anyone dining inside but the music was good and they had a few tables if you want to dine in.. You can park on the side of the J C. Inside the funeral home parking but close to the wall adjacent to JC. We will be back. I hope your restaurant thrives!

PLEASE stop seasoning with MSG PLEASE stop charring, it's a…read morehealth risk My food was not good, $30+

1/2 Chicken White

See all

Menu

14 Parish Restaurant and Rhum Bar

4.0(634 reviews)

7.0 mi•Hyde Park

I'm surprised that I'm just now getting the opportunity to eat at 14 Parish. After visiting I am…read moretruly impressed! The staff is both friendly & attentive. The bottomless mimosas don't stop until the clock does :). My plantain pancakes were sweet and fluffy just how I like them. And I can't forget about my chicken sausage, that was some of the best I've ever had at any restaurant. It was also nice that the owner came up to every table to see how everyone's doing. I will be back!

This spot never misses. Every time I'm in Chicago, this is one of my mandatory stops. The food is…read moreconsistently GOOD good, flavorful, fresh, and clearly made with care. The escovitch snapper was absolutely delicious. Crispy, seasoned perfectly, and topped with the right amount of pickled vegetables. I literally ate the whole fish without struggling once . That alone tells you everything. The cabbage was flavorful, the rice hit, and the cornbread? Whew. Easily some of the best cornbread I've had at a restaurant. Soft, buttery, slightly sweet... dangerous honestly. The drinks are good too, and the whole place has a vibe. Good music, good energy, just an overall feel-good atmosphere whether you're pulling up for brunch, dinner, or drinks with friends. 10/10 would absolutely recommend. Chicago has a lot of food spots, but this one stays in my rotation for a reason.

12.4 mi•Fulton Market, West Loop, Near West Side

Bar

Jerk Chicken Cesar Wrap

See all

Parrish Rum

The Wild Hare

3.7(257 reviews)

If you loved the "old" Wild Hare, this one on Fulton st. does not compare. Was charged for a…read more"ticketed event", but the performers didn't show up. Terrible space. Seems like we were in a dark basement with a make-shift bar. Will never go back.

No reggae music. Two male owners cant handle a bar environment. One pours drinks while the other…read moretakes food orders. I tried ordering food he took the girl in front of me and skipped me then took the guys behind me. I made it to the bar and the other guy told me if im being ignored its nothing he can do they are both owners and i just have to wait. Worst experience for my first time going and im not even from Chicago. Every other bar in the city I would highly recommend before this one. The blues bar was much better. Oh and I forgot to mention in my google review that tickets are $30/person not worth it

8.6 mi•Bronzeville, Douglas

Stage in second room

See all

Jamaican Jerk King

3.5(147 reviews)

I was in a random mood for some jerk chicken while in the Bronzeville area, and this was the first…read moreoption that appeared. I went by, and placed an order for the lunch special (good until 4p weekdays), and not only was the cashier courteous, but the service was remarkably expeditious compared to most 'traditional' Jamaican restaurants. They have many of the sides cooked and placed under a heater lamp, while the chicken was prepared to order. $10 for the white jerk lunch special, and it was well worth the investment. Great service, food, and value. The only reason it's short of 5-stars is due to the absence of background music, which has a well-kept dining area for patrons to sit-in and eat. There is no public bathroom here, so be advised before you arrive if you plan on staying and eating. Otherwise, this is a promising jerk chicken option, and could very well be my go-to spot for such a cuisine.

food was not tasteful. macaroni wasnt good texture was off and taste. service was good but price…read moredid not match the bang for my buck .

Oxtails

See all

Gorée Cuisine

4.6(403 reviews)

7.4 mi•Kenwood

Excellent Food and Service! The restaurant was very clean and esthetically pleasing. Senegalese…read moremusic was playing complete with African art from across the diaspora. I had the Yassa red snapper, it was comparable to jamaican fish escoviche. Everything was very well seasoned and there was a variety of fresh drinks to choose from.

The food was delicious. We got the yassa chicken and the didi lamb. The lamb was a clear winner. I…read morewas a big fan of the mint tea but it works better after eating than with it. Service is slow but fits the relaxed atmosphere. Not a place to eat when you're in a rush but great for a sit down meal on a slow weekend.

14.1 mi•Wicker Park, West Town

Yassa Lamb

See all

Hibiscus tea (non-caffeinated), very sweet

Amaru

4.7(480 reviews)

•$$$

Everything was great! Food, service, ambiance…read more Took my son and his girlfriend there for his birthday. We all loved it and definitely coming back. Don't miss this gem!!

Dined here with the hubby during Valentine's Day weekend. They had a special Valentine's menu…read morecurated for guests to order from. I was so excited for this meal cause Amaru has been on my list for so long! Piononos: They had me at chorizo stuffed plantains. A nice latin twist from the usual bacon wrapped dates. Highly recommend! Pulpo gallego: I don't think I've ever had octopus with beans before but it surprisingly paired very well together. Love me a nice charred octopus and this one was delish. Cuban oxtail: I still dream about this unique pasta dish!!! Great flavor. Wish there were more agnolotti because I had a lot of oxtail meat leftover by the end of the meal. Lomo steak: Such a pretty delicious dish! 5/5 stars all around! Highly recommend to share. Guava cheescake: I LOVE anything guava. The cut and presentation of the dessert gets a 5/5 for me. The slice was as long as the plate! Great way to end the meal. Overall, everything was great - the service, food, vibes, etc. I would love to dine here again :)

Interior

Shrimp Entree

See all

Pina Colada and ?

Marinas Bistro & Rum Bar

4.5(128 reviews)

17.8 mi•Uptown

My goal is to try 50 new Chicago restaurants in 2025!…read moreRestaurant: 51/50 Month tried: September Favorite dish: Pollo Al Ajillo Marinas is an unassuming spot in a strip mall that packs big flavors and cheerful service. Was so happy to discover this place. I tried to go back on a random Friday night recently, and they were completely booked up for the night, so definitely make a reservation!! Drink: La Playita - yummmm House Starter: Yucca fries and I believe some kind of guava dip? - This was SO good. I need to know exactly what that dip was and how I can get a jar of it. Starter: Queso Frito con Tamarindo - Fried cheese, how can you not love it?? Entree: Pollo Al Ajillo with rice and beans - This was so simple but SO flavorful. And a HUGE portion, perfect for lunch leftovers. I truly cannot stop thinking about this perfectly executed plate. Dessert: Flan - I have never in my life enjoyed flan, but they brought it for my friend's birthday, and I really liked it! Did Marinas make me a flan fan?? It took a bit of time to get our check. I had the feeling they wanted us to sit and enjoy more drinks. Next time I think I will do just that :)

We made a reservation since there were six of us. It is very small inside so plan ahead. My friends…read moretried to eat here on Sunday night, but they were told the restaurant had run out of food. So we tried again on Friday. The service was exceptional. We loved our waitress. Everyone enjoyed their food. The craft cocktails were also good. If you are looking for authentic Puerto Rican food, you should try this spot.