A long-time Caribbean grill is still bringing the heat - Review - Nashville - The Infatuation

"Calypso Cafe has been reliably doling out Caribbean food for 36 years in Berry Hill. It’s a long-time Nashville staple for casual lunches and quick pick-up-and-go dinners, and it still (mostly) holds its own. photo credit: Casey Irwin photo credit: Casey Irwin photo credit: Casey Irwin Pause Unmute The food is a mixed bag, but there are some hits. Like the rotisserie chicken and jerk sauce, which explain Calypso’s longevity. Lots of the sides shine, including the fresh bean and corn salad, and perfectly steamed St. Lucian rice. And considering the reasonable price point of the dishes, Calypso Cafe is a solid option if you're near Berry Hill and looking for a fast, affordable bite. Still, you might occasionally encounter some inexplicably sweet Cuban black beans and mealy sweet potatoes topped with coconut flakes. Even though it’s table service, treat Calypso Cafe like a fast food joint where you can fill up and keep things moving. There are plenty of solo diners seated inside, along with a steady stream of customers picking up some of Calypso’s exceptionally moist rotisserie chicken and kicky jerk sauce to go. Food Rundown Cuban Black Bean Dip As much as we wanted to love this dip, there’s a disconcertingly sweet aftertaste that isn’t typical of a traditionally savory serving of pork-flavored Cuban black beans. The jalapeños are an odd addition as well. photo credit: Casey Irwin Bean And Corn Salad Fresh and zippy thanks to the cilantro vinaigrette, this mix of various beans, corn, and onions is a necessary side. Order it. Rotisserie Chicken With Jerk Sauce This is where Calypso Cafe shines. The rotisserie chicken is juicy and well-seasoned. While the skin could be a tad bit crispier, it’s still easily one of the best things happening here. Pair it with the tangy jerk sauce, which lends a subtle note of heat. photo credit: Casey Irwin Boija Muffins This cornbread muffin topped with toasted coconut flakes isn’t as cloyingly sweet as you might assume—and that’s a good thing. They do lean a little dry, though. Carrot Cake Bar When we first tried this bar, and it came out without the signature carrot cake cream cheese frosting, there were some sad feelings. But that quickly turned around with each bite of this moist, spicy cake with hints of molasses. It’s like a blondie and carrot cake had a love child. There is, indeed, a lot to love." - Jackie Gutierrez-Jones