Jean
Google
If you are anywhere near Mattapan, Boston, drop whatever you are doing and make a detour for Gourmet Kreyol. I don't say this lightly: this restaurant serves, without a doubt, the best Haitian food I have ever had. The flavors are vibrant, authentic, and perfectly executed—so much so that during my short visit to Boston, I found myself going back a staggering three times! I remember when it was just a food truck and I would check them out near city hall.
The menu is a great, but a few items truly stood out. The Plantain Sandwich is pure genius—a savory revelation that swaps traditional bread for crispy, pressed plantains, holding together a delicious filling. It's handheld, comforting, and an absolute must-try. I also devoured the Okap Bowl, which was fresh, hearty, and packed with layers of flavor.
No Haitian meal is complete without pikliz, and Gourmet Kreyol’s version is the perfect acidic, crunchy, and fiery counterpoint to the rich main dishes. It was just spicy enough.
For sides, the rice with the black mushrooms (diri ak djon djon) was the ultimate expression of Haitian comfort food—deeply earthy and fragrant. Served alongside the other, equally delicious rice option, it offered a savory and aromatic foundation for the meal. To wash it all down, the Basin Blue drink was sweet, refreshing, and wonderfully tropical.
The sheer quality and consistency of the food are why I returned not once, but twice more after my initial visit. Gourmet Kreyol isn't just a restaurant; it’s an essential cultural and culinary stop. If you are in Mattapan, Boston, you absolutely need to experience this for yourself!