29 Must-Visit Mytouries in Kingston, Jamaica

Situated within Harmony Hall — a historic estate and national monument from the late 19th century — Summerhouse transforms Caribbean heritage dining into a breathtaking experience. The talented sister duo, Suzanne and Michelle Rousseau, showcase recipes inspired by Jamaica’s culinary heritage and the wider Caribbean. The East Indian mezze platter includes roasted eggplant, pumpkin and coconut choka, roti, and raita, complemented by a unique pickled herring flambeed in rum. Notable protein offerings feature local sausages, citrus-infused fresh catch, and an elevated version of pan chicken, a beloved street food. Sunday brunch at Summerhouse is a festive occasion, where elegantly dressed guests indulge in bubbly and share dishes like Scotch bonnet cornbread, cassava-crusted chevre, creamy seafood risotto, smoked marlin lox, and fluffy crab cakes with plantain salsa.

Take a break from the busy streets of Kingston and visit this charming hillside cafe. Nestled within Holywell National Park, just an hour’s drive into the mountains, Blue Brews offers walking trails to explore diverse flora, flowing streams, and local birdlife. Enjoy all-day breakfast options like pancakes, omelets, and bagel sandwiches, alongside a range of burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. For heartier choices, try the smoked pork chops or succulent roast chicken. However, the highlight here is the coffee. Opt for a classic drip coffee or an espresso shot, made from 100 percent Blue Mountain coffee sourced from the Old Tavern Estate, a picturesque 100-acre farm next to Holywell.

Nestled in the hills of St. Ann, Stush in the Bush, owned by Lisa and Christopher Binns, has transformed the local vegan scene with seasonal, sustainable menus. Guests begin lunch with appetizers like crispy plantain paired with almond hummus, yam and pineapple croquettes, and refreshing watermelon tartare. The main course features a symphony of seasonal tastes: spicy arrabbiata with almond ricotta, black linguine with 'meatballs', open-flame grilled pizza, or nasturtium flowers filled with cashew ricotta, all served with an array of homemade pepper sauces and dressings. After the meal, an Earth walk through the farm allows guests to connect intimately with the ingredients they've just enjoyed, followed by coffee and indulgent desserts like cinnamon rolls, rum raisin ice cream, and beignets filled with lemon curd.

Driven by his passion for reggae music, Kazumi Utoguchi, known as Taka, moved to Jamaica in the 1990s. He has since established a restaurant empire under the East Japanese brand, which includes East New Kingston, Annex East, and the upscale Majestic Sushi & Grill. At this elegant venue, diners can enjoy sashimi and sushi platters, nigiri, hand rolls, steaming ramen bowls, and teppanyaki, all set in the lush surroundings of Stony Hill. Music is a vital part of the East Japanese experience, whether it’s Beres Hammond playing through the speakers or the popular DJ Marie performing live on Friday nights.

The culinary creations coming from the compact kitchen at Eits Café are setting the standard for modern farm-to-table dining in Kingston. This restaurant is known for its signature dishes like juicy barrel-roasted chicken (which is literally cooked slowly in an aged rum barrel) and delicious crepes filled with coconut curry conch and mountain mango chutney. And let’s not forget the delightful Goddess dressing and house-baked bread slathered with Scotch bonnet butter — the list of praises could go on.

For the ultimate experience of Jamaica’s Blue Mountain coffee, there’s no place quite like Café Blue, located on the edge of a mountain in Irish Town. This café serves coffee sourced from its nearby Clifton Mountain Estate. You can enjoy a classic cup of 100 percent Blue Mountain coffee, or for something a little different, try the Misty Blue, which includes a splash of rum for an extra kick. The menu also features an array of breakfasts, sandwiches, and pastries if you wish to linger a bit longer. Relax on the outdoor deck, soak in the stunning views, and savor the complete bean-to-cup journey.

Nestled in the hills with a view over Kingston, this retreat is a haven for fans of roots, rockers, reggae, and dub music. Every Sunday, with a “stubby” Red Stripe beer in hand, enthusiasts gather to celebrate the rich heritage and vibrant future of reggae. Wednesdays are reserved for live sessions, showcasing the talents of emerging Kingston artists.

Uncorked started as a modest bar, but it has evolved into a leader in enhancing the island’s wine culture and making it more accessible. What began as a selection of small snacks has transformed into a full-scale restaurant, featuring impressive cheese and charcuterie boards, weekly specials, and creative breakfast and brunch offerings that blend local and international influences. Nonetheless, it remains primarily a wine bar, boasting one of the largest wine collections in Jamaica. A second location on Constant Spring Road caters to even more neighborhood enthusiasts with fantastic cheese, wine, and gourmet fare.

When Eleni Daperis and her husband Dmitri relocated from Montreal to Jamaica, their intention was not to start a bakery. However, the difficulty in finding fresh, minimally processed bread led them to establish Eleni’s Bakery. It quickly became a favorite, evolving into a full restaurant offering a diverse breakfast and lunch menu alongside an impressive array of freshly baked sourdough breads, French pastries, and other desserts. The famed croissant draws morning crowds; enjoy one with a cup of premium Marley coffee while relaxing at one of the outdoor tables.

If you're seeking a Parisian sidewalk café atmosphere, look no further than Fromage Brasserie (alongside its sister venue, Fromage Bistro). While replicating the chic ambiance of Paris may be a challenge, their steak frites with bacon and onion truffle butter will whisk you away to Rue Cler. The menu also features non-French dishes like sticky Korean barbecue pork ribs and spicy snapper Creole stew, both worthy of a visit.

At Marianna’s Kitchen, chef Marianna Farag crafts intricate and imaginative vegan dishes influenced by her Greek, Syrian, and Egyptian heritage, as well as the culinary traditions she has embraced on her journey to the Caribbean. Entering Marianna’s Kitchen feels like stepping into her welcoming home, where culinary enthusiasts gather to savor whatever is freshly prepared that day, often inspired by local ingredients or the tunes that filled the night before. Daily specials are elaborately detailed, featuring dishes like homemade protein-packed “meatballs” drizzled with a tomato turmeric fenugreek sauce, accompanied by toasted almonds, fluffy organic quinoa, and a fresh salad. Alongside the specials, you’ll find delectable options such as stuffed grape leaves, gluten-free mujadara with mango-cucumber salsa, or crispy “chicken” served with salad.

Enjoying the sunset is a treat at this family-owned Lebanese Mytoury, where you can savor a platter of kibbeh, falafel, and baba ghanoush while taking in panoramic rooftop views of Kingston. A beloved spot for over 15 years, Chez Maria has recently moved to a rooftop terrace, boosting its popularity. Locals unwind after work in a relaxed atmosphere, relishing freshly made dishes like kebabs, shawarmas, and shish tawook. You’ll also discover delightful surprises such as falafel tacos and flat kofta with hummus, alongside Italian favorites like pizzas and bruschetta.

A pitcher of margaritas perfectly complements your Jamexican elote, ackee chimichangas, or jerk chicken tacos. This delightful fusion of Mexican and Jamaican flavors is set in a relaxed environment—part repurposed container, part backyard gathering—marked by friendly service and easygoing vibes. Margarita Mondays and Taco Tuesdays attract a crowd of young professionals who enjoy the food and the laid-back atmosphere.

Located in a cozy corner of a plaza, Orchid offers a charming Thai dining experience. Softly glowing wicker lanterns create an intimate atmosphere as you enjoy crab fried rice (customizable to your spice preference), steamed whole fish infused with Thai basil, ginger, scallion, and lime, along with a selection of stunning cocktails. Bring friends to explore a variety of dishes, including specialties like Northern Thai pork curry stew, massaman curry with tender lamb shank, and pad kee mao noodles.

While a menu that's too extensive can raise eyebrows, Tamarind Continental breaks the mold. A branch of Tamarind Indian, it offers three unique menus—Indian, pan-Asian fusion, and French Italian—catering to diverse cravings. This results in a refined feast of flavors. Expect to see spicy Mughlai mutton paired with buttery naan on your table, along with a succulent filet of snapper enhanced by herb-citrus butter. The butter chicken pizza is both comforting and spicy, blending two culinary traditions in a surprisingly delightful way.

Regency Bar & Lounge embodies the charm of old-world Jamaica, where bartenders don bow ties and white suits while crafting some of the city's most inventive cocktails. One can easily envision Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond, enjoying gin and tonics here during his visits to Kingston in the 1950s. Nowadays, patrons savor curried goat rice balls, creamy mac and cheese with lobster and hints of Scotch bonnet pepper, along with other tempting bites that provide a perfect excuse to pause between drinks.

This rooftop Mytoury radiates Mediterranean charm, featuring chef Damion Stewart’s innovative take on cuisine that enriches Kingston’s dining landscape. Small plates include spicy ahi tuna bruschetta with a hint of Scotch bonnet; sweet, smoky pork belly with the perfect crunch; and pesto flatbread topped with buttery escargot, zesty chorizo, and mozzarella. The larger plates highlight land and sea delights, such as curry goat pasta, tender lamb shank, and the Broken Burger with hints of pesto and sharp cheddar. Craft cocktails embrace local flavors, like the lychee mule, a fresh mango and gin twist on the caipirinha, and a local ginger beer variation of the Long Island iced tea.

This pizzeria, located within a cannabis house, is a match made in culinary heaven. Kaya Pizzeria offers some of the finest wood-fired, thin-crust pizzas on the island, featuring local ingredients alongside authentic Italian recipes. Whether you indulge in cannabis-infused dishes or not, the open-air deck at Kaya invites everyone to relax, adorned with vibrant murals and retro art. This Kingston branch marks the Kaya family's third location, following the success of the original Drax Hall, the Caribbean's first medical cannabis house.

This charming creperie and tea shop was founded by Canadian expats Carrie “Quizz” Sigurdson and her mother Maree, who shared a dream of creating a cozy tea house. Today, they serve up delicately light crepes filled with a delightful range of ingredients. One features beef tenderloin in a rich bearnaise sauce, while another combines the same meat with blue cheese and cheddar; however, the crowd favorite among savory options is the smoked marlin paired with cream cheese and spicy pepper jelly. Sweet crepes are also on the menu, with tempting fillings like Nutella, apple crumble, lemon curd, or s’mores. Additionally, they offer one of the finest eggs Benedicts on the island, usually on an English muffin, but be sure to request it on their chewy, homemade bagel for a tasty twist. And while tea is available, don’t miss the invigorating Magic Mint Lemonade for a stronger kick.

This elegant haven in Kingston specializes in Indian and pan-Asian cuisine. The talented kitchen team from Mumbai crafts a diverse selection of classic Indian curries and succulent tandoor dishes, each beautifully presented. This restaurant is part of a trio of establishments owned by restaurateur Jaya Chatani, who is skillfully enhancing the island’s culinary landscape alongside Masala Wok and Nirvana Global.

Devon House stands as a cornerstone of Jamaica's culinary landscape. At the Bakery, indulge in upscale versions of Jamaica’s beloved hand pies, featuring flaky golden pastry filled with choices like curry goat, beef, chicken, lobster, shrimp, or callaloo. For something sweet, try the sweet potato pudding, bread pudding, or rum cake. Following a patty from Devon House, nothing beats a cone of the famous Devon House Ice Cream, the other half of this iconic establishment. Locals flock to the lawn every Sunday for favorites like Grapenut, Devon stout, and rum raisin. While toppings are available, these cones are best savored on their own amidst the charming surroundings. 

At Tacbar, indulge in a fusion of Jamaican and Mexican flavors with dishes like pork belly, fried snapper, and stout-braised oxtail wrapped in corn tortillas. This Mytoury elevates traditional Mexican street food, creating a vibrant atmosphere where the city's lively crowd gathers from Thursday to Sunday for tacos, margaritas, and plenty of dancing.

With a recent renovation, Devon House is ready to reclaim its status as Kingston’s culinary hotspot. Under the guidance of chef-owner Christian Sweeney, following in the footsteps of culinary legends Norma Shirley and Colin Hylton, the restaurant offers fresh and modern interpretations of Jamaican favorites. Notable dishes include a unique version of steamed water crackers paired with a vibrant creamed herring sauce and shrimp. While the extensive selection of steaks and chops remains popular, adventurous options like Scotch bonnet tuna tartare, garlic-infused mussels, and jerk sausage are redefining the dining experience. On Fridays, oyster aficionados flock to enjoy freshly shucked oysters from the renowned Ricky Pinchas, accompanied by distinctive sauces, including a spicy ganja-infused mix.

Chillin’ serves up the classic Jamaican box lunch, a simple yet satisfying takeout option filled with local flavors at an affordable price. However, don’t rush off with your meal—enjoy it on the lively, breezy deck instead. The menu features the famous curry goat from Murray’s Farm (originally located in Clarendon, about an hour from Kingston), along with other beloved dishes like stew peas with pigtail, fried chicken, and oxtail.

Once a retreat for legends like Mick Jagger and Grace Jones, Strawberry Hill exudes Jamaican charm and elegance. Enjoy leisurely weekend lunches amidst traditional fretwork and vibrant batik prints, savoring dishes from the new Jamaican cuisine, including steamed whole local fish and a flavorful combination of curry goat and oxtail. Arrive for lunch and linger as you watch the sun set over the city, sipping a refreshing Blackwell rum punch.

Once a truck stop, M10 has transformed into a beloved dining spot where patrons come for hearty, homestyle meals. It's renowned for its mouthwatering fried chicken (don’t forget to request the curry gravy), red pea soup made with pigtail, and savory oxtail stew. For those seeking a more upscale experience, the menu also includes delectable options like surf and turf and lobster thermidor.

Considered a hidden treasure, Di Dragon is tucked away on the serene waterways of Portmore and is arguably the finest Chinese restaurant on the island. Diners travel far and wide for the celebrated salt-and-pepper lobster, garlic crab, and ginger-scallion pork. Be sure to make a reservation and, if possible, place your order ahead of time to minimize the wait, which is certainly worth it.

For many locals, Gloria’s Seafood is the essential stop when returning from Norman Manley airport. What began as a small venture has blossomed into a renowned establishment, synonymous with fresh, authentic Jamaican seafood. Situated over the waters of Port Royal, Gloria’s serves freshly caught fish, prepared to your liking—whether in a savory brown stew, steamed with Excelsior water crackers, or fried with spicy escovitch sauce. The menu also includes curried and honey jerk shrimp, and lobster. The atmosphere on Friday nights is electric as street vendors populate the area. Don’t miss the oyster man outside, offering local oysters paired with a variety of sweet and spicy sauces. A second location at Victoria Pier serves seafood favorites in a more central setting.

Situated about 30 minutes from New Kingston, Hellshire is bustling with Dinogoies lined along the beach, each offering nearly identical menus showcasing the freshest seafood of the day, paired with fried or steamed bammy (cassava flatbread) and crispy festivals (sweet fried dough). Though the beloved Miss May, the original owner of this famed beach hut, passed away in 2020, her culinary legacy continues through the simple yet satisfying dishes crafted in the basic kitchen. This restaurant stands out with its consistently honest cooking that elevates simple ingredients into comforting meals: steamed fish with tender okra, pumpkin, and tomatoes; succulent garlic lobster (available from July to March); and flaky fried snapper drizzled with a zesty pickled escovitch sauce served from a bucket. For an authentic Hellshire experience, eat with your hands, feel the sand beneath your feet, and rinse off at the standpipe when you’re done.