Desert Island Eatery

I have lived in Arizona for 11 years. Tried multiple a different Jamaican restaurants. I can…read morehonestly say this restaurant definitely brings me back home to the east coast. The service was great family owned. Once walking in, it as if you're in the Caribbean with the music, pictures and ambiance. I will be going back for more of their delicious food

This is the best Jamaican food in Arizona I'll definitely will be back and also the staff is…read morefriendly

Jerk chicken tacos

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Combo meal

Ms. Martha's Caribbean Kitchen

4.4(109 reviews)

6.6 mi

My favorite Caribbean restaurant in Phoenix. You have to try the Oxtail they are so flavorful and…read moretender, like they literally fall off the bone. The customer service is amazing as well. I highly recommended Ms.Martha's! (:

A decent establishment with absolutely delicious food! We usually order the oxtails (seasoned to…read moreperfection, tender and delicious) and the stew chicken (tender and flavorful). The rice is a little harder than I prefer, but still well-seasoned. The coco bread is warm and fluffy, and the plantains are cooked just right--yummy and finger-lickin' good ! The staff plates your food like you're family, and you can truly taste the love in their cooking. Be sure to bring your patience, as everything is cooked to order--but it's definitely worth the wait. We usually visit right when they open during the week to grab our food before it sells out later in the evening. The restaurant itself is clean, plenty seating with great Caribbean decor on the rich red colored walls that emits a warm and cozy feel to the ambiance and the overall experience. Happy eating !

Inside

Brown stew chicken

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One Love Cafe

4.6(39 reviews)

10.3 mi

Tried the oxtail plate with greens, mac and cheese, with rice and peas. Everything was cooked to…read moreperfection! There was no long wait, our order was taken promptly, and the staff were friendly and efficient. I really appreciated the authentic vibes and flavors of the establishment as well.

I ordered $60 worth of food, i've been craving oxtail, and I asked the server what's the best thing…read moreon the menu she said, the jerk shrimp rice and after getting my food, which I thought was extremely expensive for two entrées and four sides I had only three pieces of oxtail, no joke literally three pieces of oxtail most of it was fat, and the jerk shrimp was hard as a rock. I thought this place would be good, but it honestly was not worth the drive and not worth the money a complete waste of $60.

Escovich Snapper

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Ocho Rios Jerk Spot

4.2(442 reviews)

5.9 mi

S-u-m-p-t-u-o-u-s food served by Charie with genuine warmth and an infectious smile.read more

Absolutely AMAZING from beginning to end. I had actually gotten food from here delivered before and…read moreremembered how good it was, so this time we decided to place a pickup order, and once again, they did NOT disappoint. We ordered the Rasta Pasta with chicken, cabbage, and plantains, and oh my goodness... EVERYTHING was outstanding. The Rasta Pasta was so flavorful, creamy, rich, and seasoned perfectly. I got mine mild because I am absolutely NOT a spicy-food person. When I say I cannot do spicy, I mean I usually tap out immediately. Now, even the mild had a little kick to it for me, but listen... that did not stop me. At all. I made sure I finished that Rasta Pasta because it was just THAT good. The flavor was worth every little bit of heat! The chicken was delicious, tender, and full of flavor, and the cabbage was seasoned beautifully. And the plantains? So good. Everything on the plate worked together perfectly. There wasn't one thing where I thought, "They could've done this differently." I honestly wouldn't change anything about the food. And the customer service was just as impressive as the meal. Both people who helped us were absolutely amazing. They were welcoming, friendly, helpful, and made the whole pickup experience feel warm and inviting. You can have great food, but when the service matches the quality of the food, that makes the experience even better. Now let me talk about the atmosphere because even though we placed a pickup order and didn't stay to eat, I was VERY impressed by the space. The atmosphere looked amazing. It had such a relaxed, comfortable vibe that immediately made me think, "Okay, next time we need to sit down and actually enjoy this place." It looks like the kind of spot where you can come in, eat some amazing food, enjoy some music, relax, and just have a good time. It gives off that perfect chill-spot atmosphere without trying too hard. We only came in to pick up our food, but the environment made me want to come back and actually stay awhile. And I absolutely plan to. This wasn't just a "we'll probably come back sometime" situation. I'm already planning on coming back MULTIPLE times. I had it delivered before and loved it, and now after picking it up and seeing the atmosphere and experiencing the customer service for myself, I'm even more impressed. From the Rasta Pasta and chicken to the cabbage, plantains, customer service, and atmosphere, everything was outstanding. Amazing food. Amazing service. Amazing atmosphere. Amazing experience. I genuinely wouldn't change a thing. And if a person who cannot handle spicy food is sitting there eating every bite of something that still has a little kick to it, that should tell you EVERYTHING you need to know. Absolutely five stars. We will DEFINITELY be back!

The inside

Brown Stewed Chicken with a Side Steam Cabbage & a Side Rice & Peas

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Also, the front has a nice awning if you wish to sit outside and dine

Topnotch Island Flavor Kitchen

4.7(189 reviews)

6.8 mi

I recently took my family to Topnotch Island Flavor Kitchen and it was an absolute treat! As…read moresomeone who lives in Chandler, I'm more than happy to drive all the way out here because this place serves what I believe is the best Jamaican food in the entire Phoenix area. The authentic Jamaican jerk chicken was packed with flavor--perfectly spiced, smoky, and tender. The oxtail was just as impressive, falling-off-the-bone tender and rich with that classic Caribbean taste. The coconut peas and rice were fresh, fluffy, and delicious, with just the right balance of coconut sweetness and savory notes. Everything tasted homemade and full of soul. For dessert, we had the pineapple upside-down cake, and it quickly became a family favorite. It was served warm, which made the flavors and textures even better--moist, caramelized pineapple on top with that perfect hint of spice. My kids loved it so much they were fighting over the last bites! My son also ordered the island punch drink, and he couldn't stop raving about how tasty it was. The guava flavor really came through and made it incredibly refreshing. From the warm hospitality to the generous portions and spot-on flavors, Topnotch Island Flavor Kitchen delivered an amazing experience. If you're craving real Jamaican food in the Valley, make the trip--you won't regret it. We'll definitely be back soon!

What a great local restaurant! My friend recommended this place, and having never been here, but…read morewanting to try it. Upon arriving, you find your own table, which already has menus for you. There is a TV in the dining area, which was playing the FIFA game. We tried the beef patty appetizer and it was yummy. I ordered the jerk, chicken pasta, and I liked that as well. You could really taste the coconut flavor, it was reminiscent of another dish I couldn't put my finger on. When you're done eating, you simply go back to the front to pay. Also, I think it's really cool that they have the table of local business cards as well. When I'm at home I always look for places that have that as well to find local businesses and what not. Great local spot to try!

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A Taste of Jamerican

5.0(1 review)

19.3 mi

This is some of the best Jamaican food in AZ. The rice and peas are as authentic as they can be…read moreAnd the pLantains are so good you will be asking for more. But the only bad thing is trying to figure out what to have as the main dish because the Jerk chicken and curry chicken make my mouth water just thinking about them as I wrote this review. And the days they have the crab legs just brace yourself for some fire they are phenomenal. And the East ta pasta just amazing. The food is so good I had them for about 3 monthS in a row every Sunday for dinner. Just couldn't get enough. And you might ask yourself what's am Asian guy kNow about Jamaican food well being fro on the east coast and raised around a large population of Jamaicans and visiting Jamaica only 20 times I have a good iddea of what authentic Jamaican food is and this is spot hots the nail right on thE head. So if you are looking for that island vibe and feel you gotta try this spot..

From the owner: A Taste of Jamerican is a Catering and Food delivery Business specializing in Caribbean and…read moreAmerican Food

Minority-owned & operated

Jerk Chicken Salad

Curry Chicken

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Jerk Chicken Tacos

LATHA

4.5(314 reviews)

13.9 mi

Women-owned & operated

Lovely thoughtful greeting & service. Watermelon salad &…read moregoat cheese a huge hit. We shared the black cod which was divine and beautifully prepared. The converted house made each room cozy and charming. Our only challenge was the noise factor - not sure what can be done to address it. A full house with joyful guests is a wonderful thing to see.

Came for restaurant week with other 3 people, 2 ordered the set menu and 2 order a la carte…read more I had the burger which was really good. We did wait quite a lot for the main course, fortunately we had shared the hummus and the whipped goat cheese which were awesome too. Unfortunately they had ran out for some items in the menu, including a dessert we really wanted to try. The ambience was great, they were playing African music at some point too. Would go back to try other things in the menu. We were thinking they probably ran out because they had been busy.

Entrance to the restaurant

Tamarind Barbacoa

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Nishangae

West African Cuisine

3.1(18 reviews)

7.5 mi

I stumbled upon this restaurant and just had to try it. I walked in during lunch hours on a…read moreSaturday and I was the only one in there outside of staff. The place was clean, but small with about seven tables. I ordered at the counter and sat and waited for my jollof rice and red snapper. My mouth watered as I thought about the meal. Once i received my meal, I had no regrets on my choices. The rice was filled with veggies and chicken. The red snapper was fried to perfection. And the fried plantains melted in my mouth. The meal was very delicious, hearty, enough for two people. Some would not agree with the price to eat here. My lunch meal was $35. I noticed several people coming and going with pickup orders. This is a hidden gem. I'd definitely return to try other items. Accessible entrance.

I have been obsessed with West African Cuisine for years. My favorite AZ spot is temporarily closed…read morebecause of a kitchen fire so I had to find food elsewhere. I have to say West African Cuisine is hitting all the taste buds and making them dance. I ordered them on DoorDash but I will definitely take a trip to have this food in the restaurant. I ordered the pepper soup with goat meat and the pepper soup with seafood, fufu and jollof rice. The food was soo good! The pepper soup was spicy and delicious. It was my first time trying the seafood pepper soup, I am so glad I ordered it. It was full or shrimp, fish and crab. The broth tasted like gumbo. I have a second favorite African restaurant now.

Inside

Egusi Soup

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Pounded yam and egusi soup and also sweet potato leaves

Caribbean Palm Scottsdale

4.0(244 reviews)

17.2 mi

Found this gem of a place while on a hunt for some good Jamaican beef patties. We tried several…read moreplaces before coming here and we can finally say we have locked into a place. Whenever we crave Caribbean food, this is our go-to spot! We have been here a few times before and have loved the food so we wanted to share this place with family. And the night was a success! Everyone loved the food! The highlight was not only the flavorfully packed food but genuine, personable service. The chef came out to talk to us for a substitution for one of the dishes and came out again before we left. Our continued favorites in order are the Cajun Fettuccine, beef patties, braised oxtail, shrimp rundown and the jerk chicken. Bold flavors and generous portions. And a total chill vibe. We love this place and will continue to come back to try other dishes!

Found this place as I was looking for Black Owned Restaurants in Scottsdale…read more It's located in an unassuming strip mall; but there's identified parking right in the front of the restaurant. From the outside it doesn't look as large on the inside but it is! If you're looking for a spot to have an event, this could be it. We were set quickly b/c it was a weekday and it wasn't crowded at all. We ordered curry chicken patties, jerk shrimp, jerk chicken and two alcoholic drinks. Everything was delicious! If and when I'm back in Scottsdale, this is on the list. Now the only downside is you have to choose between the plantains and cabbage.

Inside

Oxtail pasta

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Chicken Piccatta, rice and cabbage.

Ocean Blue Caribbean Restaurant and Bar

4.0(395 reviews)

25.8 mi

Tired of the traditional chain options for dinner I was looking for something authentic and…read moreindependently owned and came across Ocean Blue Caribbean and what an amazing find it was. Authentic Jamaican served right in Chandler AZ. We were warmly welcomed upon entering the establishment. After weighing various options on an extensive menu. I decided on the tilapia fillets Escovitch style with the side of steamed vegetables (shredded cabbage and carrots that was amazing) and festivals. My wife opted Bone in brown stew chicken with a side of rice & beans and festivals. The wait for the food to served was reasonable given that it was apparent it had been made fresh upon being served. The fish was deliciously seasoned and lightly breaded. The escovitch sauce was the perfect complement for both the fish and the cabbage. My wife's bone in brown stew chicken was amazing as well the chicken was so tender it was falling off the bone and was perfectly seasoned. The gravy for the stew was plentiful and added an additional taste when added to the beans and rice. Portions were large with enough leftovers for another meal when we finished eating. The atmosphere was welcoming and friendly with a consistent flow of carryout orders and dine-in customers. I would highly recommend Ocean Blue Caribbean and look forward to our next visit.

Hubby: Let's go out and try something new for dinner tonight. I'm thinking about hitting up this…read moreCaribbean spot. Me: Say less. I'm. So. Glad. That. We. Came. Here. Inside is a whole Caribbean vibe, music, natural decor, and all. I love the mural on the grass wall. The service was exceptional. Thanks for taking great care of us Sam (and the other server who helped us with our order, sorry I didn't get his name). I ordered the Bone-In Brown Stew Chicken with Rice and Beans and Festivals as my side. The chicken was so flavorful and tender! The gravy with potatoes and veggies was perfect to mix my rice in. Yummy in my tummy! I'd definitely try it again. My hubby got the fried Tilapia (Escovitch style...spicy veggies in a pepper vinager), cabbage, and festivals. Um, um, good! I ate most of his cabbage and a piece of fish because of how much they piled on his plate. Actually both dishes were really large portions. So, I have a nice amount of leftovers for lunch tomorrow- yay! We will most definitely return!

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Amanda S.

144

10 years ago

One of the things I love most about city living...Finding that small restaurant within walking distance that has delicious food, run by really nice people. Tasty and unique Caribbean food with everything from jerk chicken to their own delicious homemade vegan cheese. I intend to eat here again and again. #tusconsbest #deliciousfood read more

Andy B.

10 years ago

My new favorite resturant in Tucson. Lots of tarditional carribean options, many of which are vegan. Would highly recommend.

Mary C.

104

7 years ago

Great spot for some comfort food! Super flavorful and the staff is very kind and welcoming

rita l.

6 years ago

Everything was delicious, freshly made and tasty. fresh, delicious and highly recommended

Jeffrey N.

9 years ago

Caribean options fresh, inventive, good portions, yummy.

Laurel-Heather M.

7 years ago

closed moved to phx will reopen in phx in september...

Max S.

8 years ago

Great vegan food! Friendly family service as well

Desert Island Eatery - caribbean - Updated October 2026

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When a writer's description of gushing and overt hospitality is "This feels like someone's home!" I…read morewince. And I groan. Sure, maybe it's like the *first time* you go to someone's house, and they're trying to impress you. But Addis Ababa brings the sensation of trips to a best friend's house, where all pretense of a pristine and orderly family is dropped, and I am but one of many people, objects, and tasks that command attention. It is incredibly casual. A few minutes after you arrive, someone will ask how you are doing, and more importantly if you have any familiarity with this cuisine. You probably don't, but if you order what I ordered you'll be excited to try more. The Sambusas, or a stuffed and fried pastry served with a chutney of sorts, absolutely cannot be skipped. Crispy on the outside with soft layers on the inside, I can best describe their texture and flavor as a cross between India's samosa and Arizona's chimichunga. You like both of those things, right? The lentil variety are a solid starter that will tempt you to order a dozen as a full meal. And as amazing as those are, the beef filling is even better! I had the Shekla Tips for my entree. It was served in a hollowed out bowl (I do not know the formal name for this) with coals underneath the surface, keeping the beef simmering in onions, peppers, and fat from start to finish. On the side was a bowl of dry spices, and plentiful injera, a flat bread with the texture of sponge cake and the taste of a sharp sourdough that acts as a staple of this cuisine. You scoop up your food with this bread. You are not even given or offered utensils. You will enjoy every last bite. You will feel a bit messy, with the warmth of peppers radiating through your hands and face. I'd like to believe the sense of messiness only enhances one's immersion in a new dining experience, so there will be no complaints. Come hungry, curious, and patient. Addis Ababa will award you. PS--there's a hookah lounge as well!

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51st Avenue Cafe