Josephine L.
Yelp
Not to humble brag, but I grew up with some of the most authentic Jamaican food outside of Jamaica. When I spent two years living in the Bay Area (where Caribbean representation goes to die), I lived a miserable existence where asking for a "beef patty" was interpreted as asking for a hamburger patty. You couldn't even find them in 7-Elevens. I was so, effing, thankful to move back to the East Coast.
Anyway, the point is, I don't pretend to be an expert on Jamaican cuisine, but I know the real deal when I experience it--and Jerk House is the real deal. From the brusque, borderline rude (but not actually rude) service, to the no-holds-barred spices in the curries, this is just one Ting shy of being as good as the homeland.
We got the Curry Goat with Rice & Peas and Cabbage, and the Jerk Pork also with Rice & Peas and Cabbage. The goat was unbelievably tender--and anyone who's ever tried stewing goat chunks knows that's not an easy feat. The spice level was what I call "real"--no white people spicy here.
Meanwhile, jerk pork is quite hard to find, so when we saw it on the menu, we jumped at the chance to try it. The complex mix of spices in the marinade was phenomenal--I'm pretty sure my tongue hosted a house party and every flavor was invited. I think the cumin brought a keg....and other party favors.
There's only seating for about 6 people, and no nearby parks or seating areas to enjoy your food, so just be prepared to take your food to go. If you ARE lucky enough to eat your food fresh, know that prices are in the low teens for very generous portions.
Come here. Support this perfect example of delicious, authentic, underrepresented cuisine in a no frills, mom 'n' pop setting--the best kind of local NYC business.