Cancel

Open app

Search

Island Express

4.4 (219 reviews)
InexpensiveCaribbean, Bakeries
Open • 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

Order Island Express Takeout or Delivery

Island Express Photos

Business Info

ISLAND EXPRESS ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Outdoor seating
Good for kids

Recommended Reviews - Island Express

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Inside of veggie patty
Bernice N.

The food was ok. The service was ok. This place has no ambiance because although it's supposed to be freshly made food that is prepared her, it stills gives off fast food vibes. My daughter purchased a lunch special here, and it was good pricing. My veggie patty, I did not like. It was filled with beans, and, corn, chickpeas, and other things. This should have been called a vegan patty. I'm used to the Jamaican kind, with some fresh filled cabbage or callaloo as it's filling. This is a Jamaican/Guyanese restaurant, so I guess all the patties may be of the guyanese style. I wish they would let you know this is advanced. Anyway I would not return here, but I wouldn't say if you went the result would be the same.- Happy Yelping

Sandy L.

My husband was in the neighborhood and picked up some patties: chicken & beef and some pastries with pineapple & currants. I really enjoyed the pastries especially the pineapple flavored because it reminds me of the Taiwanese pineapple cakes. It's not as much pineapple as a Taiwanese pineapple cake but just as good!

Jamaican Beef Patty
Thecookingchapter

Our first of trying Guyanese flavors and we are so glad we chose the right place. Absolutely loved the beef and chicken patties. Next was Roti wrap with chicken curry. It was so delicious we couldn't wait to capture it. Flavorful, just the right consistency. Their Service is quick, place is neat and clean. Totally loved the food here. I would travel one n a half hour again to have food here. Delicious!

Jamaican Chicken Patty
Reema S.

We popped by here yesterday to get some food and were greeted promptly. They were out of a lot of things we wanted to try but we still managed to snag some jerk chicken patties and a guava tart. Female cashier was not as friendly but the rest of the staff was super helpful and kind. The jamaican chicken patty was so delicious! The crust was buttery and crispy and flaky, and the filling was ample and generous and well seasoned. Chicken tasted fresh and moist and the flavors were OUTSTANDING!! I will definitely be back to try more of their stuff!

Powdered Milk Fudge... it's delicious!
Cassie C.

This is Sybil's 2.0! I was absolutely disappointed when Sybil's closed its location on Church And Flatbush Avenues but was elated to see the grandkids open up Island Express. I have only purchased the bread and a few pastries which have always been on point. The shining star is their bread especially Plat Bread which is solid while still being moist. It remains soft for several days after purchase and goes great with Pepper Pot around Christmas. I occasionally get a bag of Tennis Rolls or Salara just to change it up. A honorable mention goes out to their Pine Tart aka Pineapple Tart for being the perfect balance of a flaky crust and fresh pineapple filling. I must admit that I definitely don't visit here as much as I would like. I also never had their cooked food either because I'm very particular about my Guyanese food. Here are the items that I highly recommend: Any of their breads; Fudge; Pine Tart; Guyanese Patties; Cheese Roll.

Peas and Rice
Bloss C.

I organize a weekly lunch for my office and the lunch from Island Express was the most popular so far. Many people asked where the food was from and/or told me how good it was. As a pescatarian I appreciated how many dishes I could try: shrimp curry, vegetable curry, peas and rice, and veggie curry cocktail patties. For the omnivores we had beef cocktail patties, oxtail, and jerk chicken as well. The only dish we ordered that wasn't a universal favorite were the fish cakes. 10 out of 10 would recommend Island Express, especially if you are looking for a crowd-pleaser.

Wesley K.

I used to live by here and one day felt the need to try the lunch special. It was filling for me as the portion size was perfect. Some people think the portion is small, but for the price it is fair. I got the curry stewed chicken which came with rice and channa masala. I also ordered a Jamaican beef patty ($2.50) which also hit the spot. I would come back if I was in the area as the food was delicious. Also the workers were super nice which is not always the case. I was overcharged ($6.90) for the lunch special, but I think the menu board was just not updated with the correct price.

Oxtail with Rice and Peas
Ga Hing C.

Was craving Caribbean food and saw this place online. Placed an order for delivery and the food came super fast and warm. The food was very flavorful and hit the spot. Cravings satisfied! Ordered the oxtail with rice and peas and plantain and the jerk chicken with rice and peas and channa (chickpeas). Both were very delicious, but my favorite was the oxtail, fall-off bone oxtail pieces! The jerk chicken was also very good. I also tried their beef patties. I love beef patties and this has to be one of the best beef patties I've ever had! I am definitely coming back for those patties and the oxtail!!

Goat curry Pouri Wrap

This is my new favorite lunch spot in Brooklyn. I've been coming in for goat roti with okra on my lunch break and it's the best part of my day. I seriously woke up this morning thinking about this curry. All the staff are warm and attentive, the food is reasonably priced with generous portions, and everything is so flavorful. The interior and seating areas are spacious, clean, and comfortable. The salt fish and fish cakes are great too! I'm gonna try everything here before long. Gina, the owner, is a gem and incredibly kind. This is a family business with a lot of history that you can feel great about supporting. I always leave happy and full. Can't say enough positive things about Island Express.

Shrimp curry pouri

See all

Photo of Star L.
1
23
10

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 8
Thanks 0
Love this 6
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 1
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Rene B.
131
737
2384

9 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 3
Thanks 1
Love this 2
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Jerica P.
115
20
1

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 4
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

3 years ago

The roti wraps and beef Patties are great and the prices are fantastic. Must try for all into Caribbean/ Indian food

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

8 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 3
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Great I really like the vegan curry here over peas and rice. Been here a dozen or more times and I'll keep at it

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Andy M.
225
37
5

3 years ago

I used to live near Island Express and still miss it. The cocktails patties are a highlight, as are the coconut rolls.

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Ace L.
4
60
11

4 years ago

This place was definitely good and fresh ...im from out to town and this will be one of my go to spot when I travel back and forth

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of J. M.
0
17
8

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Desire W.
1
20
100

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 3
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Yer B.
0
12
5

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jaime D.
13
120
53

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 2
Thanks 1
Love this 1
Oh no 1

6 years ago

Business owner information

Photo of Gina M.

Gina M.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 2 of 6

Ask the Community - Island Express

Are the beef & chicken patties made in house, or frozen?

Supposedly it is made in house. I gotten the beef patties last time, and I thought they were just average.

Do you offer any vegan options?

Yes. Absolutely.

View All 4 Questions

The Islands - Oxtail

The Islands

4.2(834 reviews)
2.1 mi•Prospect Heights, Crown Heights
•$$

Something about Caribbean food when the winter weather's frigid sounds dandy to me. Guess if you…read morecan't be somewhere tropical, eating tropical cuisine sure helps. Enter The Islands. It was sort of an odd time so the spacious restaurant wasn't very busy. We studied the menu for too long and after much deliberation, here's what we ordered, in order of spice level: - Oxtail ($35): Not spicy, super flavorful, "Trimmed and sliced chunks of oxtail seasoned freely with fresh spices and simmered to tender perfection." - Curry goat ($29): Mildly spicy, "Goat meat marinated and cooked in curry spices and herbs makes this an exotic dish." - Jerk chicken ($20): Apparently incredibly spicy so I steered clear of it, "A Jamaican delight. Spicy, delicious chicken baked with this unique combination of spices from the island." The dishes I could handle were excellent, with no drop of sauce left unmopped. On the sides front, the rice and beans, roti, steamed vegetables, and plantains were all tasty. The entree sizes were hearty. Our server seemed like a cool dude: easygoing with a sense of humor. It was kind of chilly in the restaurant, not sure if we were in a warmth dead zone or what. The bathroom was frog-themed which was a cute touch!

"Deep in Brooklyn, hides the Caribbean"…read more Came here on sleepy Tuesday. Not many people in the restaurant but lots of take out going on. The friendly one woman staff helped seat us, recommend the dishes, made the drinks, prepped and served the food. It was all tasty. What's to cheer - Nice not to too sweet homemade rum punch - Solid, flavorful oxtail. Very island spiced and cooked well - Goat was also really strong - Reasonable prices - service with personality What's to jeer - they were out of the jerk chicken unfortunately which I really wanted to try - place is pretty low key and not swimming with ambience

Photos
The Islands - Jerk chicken

Jerk chicken

The Islands - Upstairs dining area at The Islands

Upstairs dining area at The Islands

The Islands - Stew chicken.  so good, craving it now

See all

Stew chicken. so good, craving it now

Kokomo

Kokomo

3.9(1.1k reviews)
5.2 mi•Williamsburg - North Side
•$$$

Where do I even begin? My husband Bryan and I had a NYC City Clerk ceremony followed by an intimate…read moredinner with 25 of our loved ones at Kokomo, and it was one of the most special, intentional, joyful, and love-filled experiences of our lives. I discovered Kokomo because I knew I wanted our wedding celebration to be in Williamsburg -- a neighborhood that holds so many memories for me growing up in the Bronx and exploring the city as a kid. We flew in from Los Angeles and truly made it a full wedding week experience. I planned the wedding myself, so I had been communicating with Joel for months leading up to the event. We reserved the Champagne Room, which felt like its own beautiful oasis. As a Jamaican-American woman, it meant so much to know my disabled mother would feel culturally comfortable, welcomed, and safe in the space and with the food. From the moment we arrived, the staff was warm, attentive, and calming. Our server especially helped ease my nerves while we were finalizing seating and guest details, and after that, I genuinely did not have to worry about a thing. And the food? Absolutely incredible. Truly perfection. As a vegan, it meant so much to fully enjoy every part of my wedding meal without compromise. The rum punch was fantastic, our guests loved the open bar package, and the entire evening flowed so seamlessly. The aesthetic is pure island luxury -- elevated, warm, vibrant, and beautiful. The communication from the owners and management team was excellent throughout the entire process, and I even had the chance to finally meet Joel at the end of the night after months of planning together, which was such a lovely touch. I was also able to personally thank the chefs. We even accidentally left my bouquet behind, and the team kindly helped us retrieve it the next day. Kokomo NYC is officially a staple in our family now. I already know we will celebrate future milestones there and visit often whenever we are back in New York. It makes me proud to support a Black Caribbean-owned business that creates such meaningful experiences with so much care and excellence. I truly cannot imagine our wedding without Kokomo, and I'm so grateful they were part of our story. : @lensofher

I will start by saying I love the ambiance of Kokomo. Staff here is always friendly and music is…read morealways great during service and after hours. Food took entirely too long to come out. 40 minutes for an appetizer is crazy... Once they arrived, they were all tasty. I wish I took photos of the food. We ordered the curry crab gyoza which was so flavorful and the ackee and saltfish shumai. The oxtail flatbread is very large and lots of meat. They don't skimp out. Biang biang Rasta noodles is served with oyster mushrooms (so good) and peppers. I added shrimp to mine. Very tasty and filling. But keep in mind that the noodles are not penne and they are I think fettuccine They must do better on their serving time. The restaurant was crowded. But it would be nice to have the expectation set that there will be a long wait.

Photos
Kokomo - Koko Happy Hour

Koko Happy Hour

Kokomo
Kokomo - Good Guice Every Thursday

See all

Good Guice Every Thursday

Stella's - Rice and Peas

Stella's

4.6(182 reviews)
2.1 mi•Park Slope
•$$

I can't express how much I enjoyed my dining experience at Stella's. The staff were wonderful and…read moreinviting from the moment we walked in. The drinks were perfectly made nice, strong, and flavorful. The food was fresh and absolutely delicious. The codfish fritters had to be my favorite, perfectly fried without being oily, just pure deliciousness. I ordered the Stella's Tasting, and it was more than enough food for two. My friends enjoyed their meals as well. Since it was my birthday, the staff came out and surprised me with a very delicious carrot cake. Moist, not overly sweet, and the perfect way to end the meal. To top it all off, we were vibing to a really great playlist the entire time we ate. I will definitely be back!

We were craving Caribbean food and I've been curious about trying this spot out for a while so when…read moremy husband suggested it was an easy Yes! I had their passion fruit lemonade which was refreshing and not overly sweet. For my entree I ordered their oxtails and rice and peas on the side. Their oxtails were cooked perfectly, the meat was falling off the bones. I would like it to be a bit more spicy and some more Lima bean but maybe thats just my own preference. When I asked for some spice the server brought us some pepper sauce which was exactly what I needed! My sister tried their jerk wings and mac and cheese. Their Mac and cheese is WOW. Definitely recommend! I didn't try their wings but I tried the sauce that comes with the wings and it had a lovely kick to it. For dessert we shared the Plantain Paradise and the ice cream paired so great with the plantains. It was vanilla ice cream but didn't taste like regular vanilla ice cream.. it had a nice rich texture . Service was great, the music was nice and although it was a bit cold in there they had a blanket per table which I thought was a cool concept.

Photos
Stella's - The inside

The inside

Stella's - Rice and Peas

Rice and Peas

Stella's - Jerk Salmon

See all

Jerk Salmon

The Simpson Restaurant & Bar - BK - Mac & cheese

The Simpson Restaurant & Bar - BK

3.8(555 reviews)
2.6 mi•Fort Greene, Prospect Heights
•$$$

9.5/10 for the vibe, ambiance, and service -- and a full 10/10 for the food…read more I'm not a picky eater, but I've had some really disappointing oxtail lately, so I was hoping for the best here. I'm Dominican so I know oxtail pretty well and have made it myself. Thankfully, this place absolutely delivered. The oxtail was perfectly slow-braised, tender, and falling right off the bone -- exactly how it should be. Absolutely amazing. Of course I had the rice and peas, plus some veggies. A few of the veggies were slightly overcooked, but still flavorful and enjoyable. The drinks looked incredible, but I went with the rum punch and loved it. It was a little sweet, but super flavorful, strong, and definitely worth ordering again. For dessert, I had the Hennessy cheesecake, which was rich, decadent, and unbelievably delicious. There were three of us dining, and we all left completely satisfied -- with take-home containers because the portions are VERY generous. The only thing that bothered me a bit was that our server seemed to focus most of her attention on my friend. She is Jamaican, and because I look like a white American woman, I felt a little overlooked at times, even when I had several requests myself. We also had to look for her a couple of times while she was sitting with a group nearby. That said, everyone overall was very nice and welcoming. The bussers especially stood out -- they checked on us often, kept everything clean, and even greeted me in Spanish, which I appreciated. Overall, I really enjoyed my experience and will definitely be back with more people next time.

The moment we walked in, I knew we were in for an amazing culinary experience. It was my birthday…read moreweekend, and we were in New York for an extended stay. For my hubby, Brooklyn is home - and we always love exploring the new places the city has to offer when we visit. We had reservations, and were seated within 10 minutes, which was reasonable. The place was packed - everyone was in high spirits, and I was ready to taste some of the best Caribbean cuisine in the region. My hubby's best friend - a Brooklyn resident, joined us. He had been to the restaurant a few times - and had good things to say. We were not disappointed. I had the Brown Stew Red Snapper - *chef's kiss*. Hubby had the iconic Jerk Oxtail over Macaroni & Cheese Pie! The English language cannot convey the beauty of that combination! Tender, tender oxtail, falling off the bone with the creamy, cheesy mac & cheese! He wanted to savor that dish another day, so he got a to-go bag and took it back to the hotel! (I couldn't help but clean my plate - I was obsessed with the fish!) Our friend enjoyed the Hennessy Fried Shrimp (not pictured) - one of his favorite dishes at the restaurant. It looked delicious as well. For drinks, I had the Bob Marley cocktail. A colorful drink - flavorful - and effective! There were people celebrating their birthdays throughout the night - and the wait staff goes IN! I was enjoying watching at least 10 people receive the Stevie Wonder "Happy Birthday" song while we were there. Imagine my surprise when it was my turn! My birthday was the day before, and we had already celebrated in Manhattan. Having two special recognition events made the evening that much more special! Shout out to the Simpson crew who came with the song, the rhythm, the sparkling cake, and the good vibes! My 70th birthday was exceptional - without a doubt. The Simpson added the touch I needed. We'll definitely go back next time we're in Brooklyn!

Photos
The Simpson Restaurant & Bar - BK - Bar

Bar

The Simpson Restaurant & Bar - BK - Jerk Oxtail Over Macaroni & Cheese Pie

Jerk Oxtail Over Macaroni & Cheese Pie

The Simpson Restaurant & Bar - BK - Slow Braised Oxtail and Butter Beans

See all

Slow Braised Oxtail and Butter Beans

Peppas Jerk Chicken

Peppas Jerk Chicken

3.5(26 reviews)
2.1 mi•Park Slope

Nice spot serving traditional Jamaican dishes. I know the other restaurants in Brooklyn, but this…read morewas my first time visiting this particular one. Upon arrival the restaurant is very clean, and the service was fast. There is a dine in area as well. The woman who took my order was very patient , and personable. I ordered a brown stew fish, cabbage and 3 small soups. Everything came out to about $49. The chicken soup was very good . The cabbage was also very good. The fish on the other hand was very salty and not worth the $20 charge (fish with no sides). I get it the area etc etc but for the price the food should be top notch. The other establishments are much better. Would I return.....I don't think so .

Lunch pick up around 1 a.m. ish. Was welcomely greeted when…read moreI walked in to this small yet cozy eatery. I ordered a large Just (Jerk) Chicken with extra sauce. Escovitch fish meal which came with plantains, rice and peas, and spinach. Everything was still warm and tasty when I arrived home. The order was packaged nicely. Definitely, nice portions for the prices. Place is clean. Staff is friendly, informative, and service was amazing. It takes about 10 minutes for the fish since they make it to order. I will soon be back and may have them do some catering orders for me( usually order from the location on flatbush). Pop in if you ever get in the area and want some hot warming food.

Photos
Peppas Jerk Chicken - The restaurant.

The restaurant.

Peppas Jerk Chicken - Stew Oxtail with steam cabbage, spinach and fried plantain

Stew Oxtail with steam cabbage, spinach and fried plantain

Peppas Jerk Chicken

See all

Island Express - caribbean - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...