Jamaica Jamaica in Evanston

Jamaica Gates never made it, but maybe that's because it didn't have a sexy bar? Along comes Jamaica Jamaica and they've got the sexy bar thing covered. There's nothing like sipping a Bob Marleytini under the mood lighting to put you in that island spirit. Uh... mon?

Thing is, the food's actually good. Jerk chicken was nothing like the grilled-chicken-doused-with-gloppy-sauce all too common in these parts (Jamaica Gates was yet another offender); the chicken here had a nice smoky flavor and the non-gloppy sauce a bit of a kick (not enough for many, I'm sure, but you can tell a Scotch Bonnet was involved). However, the real standout for me was the goat curry. Although I'm a committed goat lover (that did not come out quite the way I intended), I'm usually reluctant to order goat at a new place; all too often, what you get is a plate full of bones with a few pathetic strips of dried-out gristle hanging on for dear life. Here the meat was tender and delicious (and not in the least spicy, although I'm sure that could be remedied by requesting some hot sauce). I'm now eager to try the oxtail, often another risky proposition.

Look, I won't lie -- you can (and should!) go down to D's Irie Kitchen for food that's twice as good at one third the price. However, this is a good place run by very nice folks and a very welcome addition to a fairly boring culinary location.

Jamaica Jamaica
1512 Sherman Ave
Evanston
847-328-1000

My office is across the street, but I've not eaten here yet. The times I've ducked my head into the joint, the music was way loud and the prices seemed not exactly cheap. But this review will encourage me to visit very soon.

From one goat lover to another (wait... that didn't come out right, either) thanks, cilantro, for the review.

Just to mention again since this is a new thread, Jamaica Jamaica is run by the owners of Good to Go on Howard Street - who are, indeed, very nice people and whose food I would consider good if a bit pricy.

Yeah, just to spare any possible disappointment, the prices are way higher than they should be and the portions are not huge. Blame the location....

Still, the food (including sides) is cooked with care. The music was on when I was there, but I'd remember if it was blaring.

My girlfriend works near Jamaica Jamaica in Evanston. Have to get her to head over and give a report on it. Thanks for the heads up.

Bump. Anyone eat here besides me?

I continue to be impressed with the food. I'll stand behind the goat (Why do I keep saying stuff like this???) and the oxtails are also excellent -- beautifully tender each time I've ordered them. Even the brown stew chicken hits the spot now and then.

My one criticism -- and it's a not insignificant one -- is that the prices are much too high (or if you prefer, the portions are much too small). On a recent visit, the side of plantains that comes with the meal consisted of one (1) plantain slice. Hold on, let me count again to make sure.... One... Yep, I was right the first time. That's comical. I know Evanston's notorious high rents are probably killing them, but when TOC features you in their "Save This Restaurant" column and still on any given night your room's empty while the crowds are swarming for mediocre sushi next door, it may be time to reevaluate. They've taken some steps (lower lunch prices, "Buy 1 dinner get 1 at 50% off" on, I think, Tuesdays, etc.) but they need to do more.

Still, I have no complaints about the cooking.

I'm thinking they may go back to focusing on their original place on Howard Street.

Good To Go Jamaican Cuisine
1947 W Howard St, Chicago
(773) 381-7777

Though I've noticed that the prices at Good to Go are higher than the other (also very good) Jamaican places in the area. However, if you want to get your Island on, it's less than Jamaica Jamaica.