Bold, homestyle Caribbean flavors with generous portions and standout oxtail, jerk, and Haitian griot; expect counter service, occasional inconsistency, and downtown parking hassles.
Island Taste Caribbean Grill delivers bold, authentic Caribbean flavors with standout oxtail and jerk dishes that justify its strong local following. However, inconsistent execution—ranging from tender meats to occasional dryness— and modest ambiance with functional rather than polished setting keep it from grade A territory. Fair pricing and generous portions appeal to families and repeat diners seeking genuine island cooking over refinement.
Right across from City Hall, this spot feels warm and inviting with a relaxed, island vibe. Counter ordering keeps things easy, then big trays land at your table steaming hot. One guest summed it up: "Bold flavors and generous plates that feel homemade." Expect friendly faces, occasional clutter from takeout packing, and colorful, cheerful touches that match the menu. The cooking leans traditional Caribbean with Jamaican anchors and Haitian standouts. Oxtail over rice and peas, jerk chicken, and griot or tasso come with sweet plantains and pickled sides. The vegan Rasta Pasta wins over herbivores and omnivores alike. It is hearty, soulful food more than fancy plating—ideal for diners who crave bolder seasoning and big portions. Do note some inconsistency reports, from dry meats to sweetness levels that skew high for certain palates. For families, it is easygoing and kid-friendly. Staff suggest mild choices like rice and peas and Jamaican patties; mac and cheese and sweet plantains also land well. Spice-averse kids can skip the jerk and still eat happily, while adventurous teens may steal bites of oxtail or curry goat.
Area vibe: Civic core near City Hall with weekday foot traffic, casual lunch crowd, and evening event spillover.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit civic district; standard urban caution at night.
What's nearby: Opposite City Hall; near offices, Light Rail, and downtown venues; limited curb parking, meters common.