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| - TL;DR (out of 5):
Finishing their transition from food truck to brick and mortar shop, Caribbean Grill continues to provide much needed Caribbean flare. While a little lacking in finesse and consistency in their claim to fame (jerk chicken), the service is streamlined and quick, and the workers are always bubbly and welcoming. Definitely a go-to when you're trying to change things up!
Food: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Price: 3
Service: 4
Decor: 3
The first time I came to Caribbean Grill, it was a Friday - the special for which is Beef Oxtails. How could I not? And I was glad I did. The oxtails were flavorful, succulent, and almost fell of the... tail? I ordered my meal with two sides: rice and beans and cabbage. Even more surprising was that they were also quite delicious, both with a hint of jalapeno heat. Amazing! Unfortunately, the plantain that came with the meal left a bit to be desired (thankfully I hadn't ordered extra plantains as a side).
The second time I came here with friends and we all ordered the jerk chicken (this time I ordered mac and cheese instead of rice and beans). As I bit into the jerk chicken, expecting it to be at least as good as the oxtails (it's what they're famous for, right?), I was completely underwhelmed by the lack of flavor and dryness of the chicken. It didn't make sense to me that a restaurant that's supposed to specialize in caribbean jerk chicken could make something so... boring? A little into the meal I found the jerk sauce in a small container, only to realize that it was more of a vinaigrette than a sauce and was terribly sour and off-putting. Sure, there were some flavors other than the vinegar, but I could get over the overpowering astringency that came through. VERY disappointing.
To be honest, I'm pretty split on this place. I love that they're bringing Caribbean food to town. But their staples, the simple foods (jerk chicken and fried plantains) are wistfully lacking in flavor and appeal. On the other hand, their specials and sides are amazing - made with love and tradition, well-seasoned, and like nothing you'll find in Chambana. My recommendation for you: stick with the specials if possible; there's a better chance you'll enjoy them. My recommendations for CG: put the same amount of focus into your main staple as your specials, or add your specials to your regular menu!
Oxtails w/ 2 sides (Friday special): $15.49
Jerk Chicken w/ 2 sides: $10.49
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