Jamroc 101 Caribbean Grill Restaurant in Encinitas

Jamroc Caribbean Grill Restaurant in Encinitas

Jamroc Jamaican Cuisine is Delicious Mon!
Article written by Kristel Boe

Jamaica is well known for beautiful beaches, amazing weather, and a contagious laid back attitude. Aside from the longitude and latitude Jamroc Caribbean Grill isn’t much different. Located just blocks from the beach on the historic highway 101 in Encinitas, Jamroc offers delicious Jamaican dishes and oozes Caribbean hospitality.

You really can’t miss the quaint restaurant, unless perhaps you are color blind. The exterior is brightly colored in the traditional island colors of red, green and yellow. The interior is welcoming and the strange aroma of smells coming from the kitchen is sure to beckon you closer. With a small but welcoming outside patio I suggest most opt to sit outside and enjoy the Jamaican tunes that penetrate the air. Don’t be alarmed though if your conversation is interrupted by a loud whistle and rumble, it is simply the coastal train that runs next to the restaurant.

Their menu, although Caribbean inspired, has many traditional American items (with island names). If you’d rather not step too far out of your comfort zone, you can treat your tummy to familiar dishes such as fish n’ chips, chicken wings (jerk wings), and a garden salad (soco salad) to name a few. To jump head first into the flavor of Jamaica try more extreme delicacies such as fried plantain (an island must have), coconut wata, Festival (an island fritter made of cornmeal) or Rasta-Rap (tortilla bread with meat and curry). Each table comes equipped with four choices of Jamaican sauces. Each with different flavors ranging from spicy to sweet, they add just the right touch to the meal.

Island food traditionally combines the flavors of sweet and spicy to give it just the kick needed to clear your sinuses and fill your stomach. Portions come in two options, likkle (basically little) and for an additional cost, bigga (meaning, well, you guessed it, bigger). Prices range from 2.50 starters, to 17.00 for the Jamaican Jumbo Shrimp combination plate (definitely a “bigga” portion of food than most can handle). The average price is about 7.50 for quite a helping.

Jamroc is a great place for lunch or dinner, but if you come in the evening you might get the treat of a live musical performance! Friday nights usually feature a calypso band or a Jamaican singer. It is a must see and the perfect addition to set the mood!

So, feeling kind of airy? Feeling like you could use a little Bob Marley? Feeling bold enough to try something new? C’mon mon! Try Jamroc Jamaican cuisine in beautiful Encinitas. You won’t be disappointed.