Food & Drink

Get Your Jerk On: Chicago’s Top 11 Jamaican Restaurants

Are you craving some jerk chicken or oxtail? Look no further than the vibrant Jamaican food scene in Chicago.

From casual spots to upscale restaurants, the Windy City has no shortage of options for those seeking authentic Jamaican cuisine.

Chicago's Jamaican restaurants offer a diverse range of dishes that reflect the island's cultural influences. You can find everything from goat curry to ackee and saltfish, and don't forget about the famous Jamaican patties.

The chefs at these restaurants take pride in using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create dishes bursting with flavor.

Whether you're a longtime fan of Jamaican food or a newcomer to the cuisine, these restaurants are sure to impress. From the spicy heat of jerk seasoning to the sweet notes of coconut milk, each dish is a symphony of flavors that will transport you straight to the Caribbean.

So come along as we explore the best Jamaican restaurants in Chicago and get ready for a culinary adventure you won't soon forget.

1. Jerky Jerk

Jerky Jerk
2253 W Taylor St, Chicago, IL 60612 (Google Maps)

Jerky Jerk is a must-visit for those craving authentic Jamaican cuisine.

With a menu filled with homemade dishes made from recipes brought straight from Jamaica, the food is loaded with flavor and spice.

The friendly staff provides impeccable customer service and the atmosphere is laid-back and inviting. Vegetarian options are also available.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the ox tails and jerk chicken, both of which are delicious and reasonably priced.

2. Caribbean American Baking Co

Caribbean American Baking Co
1539 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60626 (Google Maps)

Caribbean American Baking Co is a Jamaican restaurant and bakery that offers a variety of savory patties, pastries, and beverages.

Their beef patties are excellent, and their jerk chicken and pork dinners are a must-try. The restaurant is clean and has a no-frills atmosphere.

While there is no indoor seating, there is a nearby park across the street to enjoy your meal. The service is amazing, and the staff is super friendly.

If you're looking for authentic Jamaican food, Caribbean American Baking Co is definitely worth checking out.

3. Little Jamaica Jerk Cuisine

Little Jamaica Jerk Cuisine
6319 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60637 (Google Maps)

Little Jamaica Jerk Cuisine is a must-try for anyone looking for authentic Jamaican food. The dishes are freshly made and well-seasoned, with a perfect blend of spices that will leave your taste buds tingling.

The staff is friendly, and the service is fast, ensuring that you get your food in a timely manner.

The portions are a bit small, but the flavor more than makes up for it. The lamb chops are a must-try, and the oxtail and curry goat are also delicious.

The prices are reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of food you receive. If you're looking for a hidden gem in the hood, Little Jamaica Jerk Cuisine is the spot to try.

4. One Stop Jamaica Jerk

One Stop Jamaica Jerk
1849 E 79th St, Chicago, IL 60649 (Google Maps)

One Stop Jamaica Jerk is a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic Jamaican cuisine.

With a menu that includes jerk chicken, ox tail, and catfish, this restaurant delivers on flavor and portion size. The rice and peas and cabbage sides are standouts, as is the extra-hot sauce.

Prices are reasonable and service is attentive. The clean and vibrant atmosphere makes for a pleasant dining experience.

For those in search of the real deal, One Stop Jamaica Jerk is the place to be.

5. Tastebuds Bar & Grill

Tastebuds Bar & Grill
7300 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60645 (Google Maps)

Tastebuds Bar & Grill is a top-notch Jamaican restaurant that serves authentic and skillfully prepared dishes.

The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a great spot for a date night or a girls' night out. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the presentation of the food is impressive.

The oxtails, red beans and rice, and curry goat are all highly recommended and the portions are generous.

Tastebuds Bar & Grill is definitely one of the best Jamaican restaurants in the area, and a must-visit for anyone who loves Caribbean cuisine.

6. Three-Ds Jerk Chicken

Three-Ds Jerk Chicken
5317 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60639 (Google Maps)

Three-Ds Jerk Chicken is a Jamaican restaurant that serves up delicious and authentic cuisine.

The food is well seasoned and flavorful, especially the perfectly grilled jerk chicken. The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable.

Although there is no seating area, the restaurant is a great spot for takeout. The customer service is excellent and the staff is welcoming.

For those in search of authentic Jamaican cuisine, Three-Ds Jerk Chicken is definitely worth a visit.

7. ROYAL BBQ & JERK INC

Royal Bbq & Jerk Inc
7518 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago, IL 60619 (Google Maps)

Looking for the best Jamaican food in town with some delicious BBQ options as well, look no further than ROYAL BBQ & JERK INC.

This restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering jerk chicken for over 8 years, and it's still the best in town.

The South Side of Chicago has never tasted so good. If you're in the mood for some authentic Jamaican cuisine, this is the place to be.

The flavors are bold and the portions are generous. Don't miss out on this hidden gem.

8. Caribbean Spice

Caribbean Spice
522 E 79th St, Chicago, IL 60619 (Google Maps)

Caribbean Spice is a Jamaican restaurant that offers delicious food at reasonable prices.

The portions are generous, and the jerk chicken dinner is a must-try. The staff is friendly and welcoming, making customers feel at home.

The restaurant is a hidden gem in the south side of Chicago, serving amazing stewed cabbage and bourbon jerk chicken.

The food and service are top-notch, making it a great spot for anyone who loves Jamaican cuisine. If you're looking for a unique dining experience, Caribbean Spice is definitely worth checking out.

9. Fire Jerk

Fire Jerk
750 W Garfield Blvd, Chicago, IL 60609 (Google Maps)

Fire Jerk is a Jamaican restaurant that serves up authentic and delicious dishes.

The jerk chicken is a standout, with just the right amount of heat and spices. The daily specials are also worth trying.

The portions are generous and served hot and fresh every time. The staff is courteous and the environment is clean and calm.

For those in search of good Jamaican food, Fire Jerk is a must-visit spot.

10. Tropic Island Jerk Chicken

Tropic Island Jerk Chicken
553 E 79th St, Chicago, IL 60619 (Google Maps)

Tropic Island Jerk Chicken is a small, family-owned Jamaican restaurant with a big flavor.

The menu is extensive and offers a variety of classic Caribbean dishes, including jerk chicken, oxtails, and red snapper. The food is made fresh daily and cooked to perfection.

The restaurant has an eat-in section with restroom facilities and also offers catering services. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the prices are reasonable.

If you're in the mood for some delicious Caribbean cuisine, Tropic Island Jerk Chicken is definitely worth checking out.

11. Uncle Joe's Jerk Chicken Hyde Park

Uncle Joe's Jerk Chicken Hyde Park
1461 E Hyde Park Blvd, Chicago, IL 60615 (Google Maps)

Uncle Joe's Jerk Chicken Hyde Park is a casual Jamaican restaurant that specializes in delicious jerk chicken and seafood dishes.

The staff is friendly and courteous, and the service is efficient. The food is prepared with precision and perfection, and the flavors are authentic and delicious.

The menu offers a variety of classic side dishes, and the desserts are some of the best in the area. The prices are a bit high, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it.

If you're looking for a tasty Jamaican meal, Uncle Joe's Jerk Chicken Hyde Park is definitely worth a visit.