The Yummiest Caribbean in Tampa

Yah Mon

★★★★★ 4.6 (884) • $$

"Tasty and unique!It's been a while since I had Jamaican food and I have no regrets in picking this place to satisfy that craving. Our waiter was very attentive from the moment we walked in and service like that must be acknowledged. He did a great job of describing the dishes and providing us with options. He checked in as necessary to ensure we were having a good time.The location is an odd place but it feels very adventurous. The lights are dim and romantic - PERFECT PLACE FOR A DATE.It's worth mentioning that the COCONUT was divine and fresh! Was it shipped from the island? I'll never drink another coconut in tampa bay that is not from here! I opted to go with the Oxtail Pasta and omgggg, the flavors were divine! I never knew oxtails and pasta could go together, but the chef has managed to create a combination that is both satisfying and tasty. The pasta was creamy, but not overwhelming. The oxtails held the flavors and juices that when combined with the creaminess of pasta, it became an explosion of flavor. My friend ordered the chicken platter and I've never seen her do the happy dance like I did that day.Be ready to spend when visiting, it is easy to go over 100 for a single person, the quality of food and atmosphere does match the cost.Look forward to bringing more friends and family to this restaurant."

Tarpon Turtle Waterfront Grill

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (566) • $$

"Lovely lakeside atmosphere, fast and friendly wait staff, and excellent food! What more could you ask."

The Brass Monkey

★★★☆☆ 3.4 (546) • $$

"Yum!! We were brought here by very good friends on a quick weekend trip. Excellent ambiance! We were out on the patio. It was breezy, but warm. We started with a seafood pretzel, wow. Amazing! Recommend! Had a Brass Monkey (their signature drink) Yum! I had a bowl of mussels, my bride had a chicken salad wrap, our friends had the seafood chowder and a batch of wings. ALL enjoyed their food.We had more drinks too - the Black Cherry Drop, the Black & Tan tini and a Winger's sunset. All were excellent!!! IF when we are in the area will definitely visit again!!!!"

The Floribbean

★★★★★ 4.6 (258) • $$

"After a few drinks at 3 Daughters, we were getting a little hungry so we decided to take a short walk to the Floribbean.Here's my take on the experience:Quality of food: Good. You get to pick 3 sides to make a bowl or you can go with their signature bowls. We tried two of their signature bowls: Island Umami and the Yardbird. The Island Umami comes with smoked paprika chicken, coconut rice, chipotle sweet potatoes, sweet plantains, and miso sauce. The Yardbird has basically the same ingredients except for black beans instead of sweet potatoes and Jerk aioli instead of miso sauce. Both bowls were absolutely bursting with flavors and the portion size was huge! I would suggest splitting a bowl with someone next time especially because that coconut rice is super filling.Décor: kinda cool but could use more. They had a couple of little hula girl decorations made out of coconut. There wasn't much besides that other than the tables were also colorful.Cleanliness: okay. The tables were being kept mostly clean.Service: okay. The person taking the order was also the one that would create your bowl. They only had two people working on a Saturday night and both looked super tired and stressed.Price: reasonable. The bowls cost around $12 but the portion size is huge.If you're up for some healthy-ish food that's a little different than the usual then checkout The Floribbean."

Shrimp & Co. Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.9 (354) • $$

"Ran into the spot after a pretty lively round of golf but I got to say I've never had shrimp mofongo but this was one of my favorite dishes out of everything we tried that afternoon. I'd have to say that this was some of the favorites you can get at any Spanish restaurant / seafood joint just done a cut above the rest with the flavor and the crispiness and pop of everything that was plated. Your best bet is to order an entree or two and then pile on with the appetizers as they do give you quite a bit of grub to get through and it's very reasonable on the wallet as well."

Madame Fortune

★★★★☆ 4.2 (305) • $$

"12/26/24. We were here celebrating the holidays in Tampa and were encouraged by other Yelpers to have dinner here. They were absolutely correct in their recommendations because we loved it! First of all, I loved the Madame Fortune speakeasy ambiance. I had never been to one. This was a treat. We entered the Roast Deli store from the street where we parked and were welcomed by the hostess and then the bookcase started to open and we entered into a wildly decorated and beautifully decorated darkly lit bar and restaurant. I immediately felt excited wondering what was happening next. Was I on a movie set? I was ready, ha ha.We were warmly welcomed by our lovely server, Chanel No.5, aka Shannelle. She gave us some good recommendations. Ti start with, my daughter ordered a drink called Find Your Fortune and found it to be delicious. I wanted cold still water. The food selections all sounded good but I picked Pepper Pot Shepards Pie, which was Really good! It came with the delicious Cornbread and a bean and spinach salad. Great meal! Loved it. My daughter ordered the Lamb Chop entrée and loved it. There was great R & B Rythym and Blues music playing in the background to increase everyone's mood to soothing and relaxed. Chanel checked on us every so often at the right times. She was absolutely the best! For dessert, we picked a slice of 4 layer chocolate cake to share. We didn't know it was the size of half a cake, lol. We had a few bites and took it back to the hotel room for later. If you are a chocoholic, then this cake is for you!! The very fresh and sweet strawberries on it were amazing! We had a fabulous dining experience and will definitely be back next time we are in Tampa! Thank you, Shannelle and MF."

Jamaica Jamaica Island Cuisine

★★★★☆ 4.2 (223) • $$

"I stop in on Fridays whenever possible to get the jerk wings. They are worth the trip and have never disappointed however they might have the worst Mac and cheese I've ever tasted. I saw another user say it was dry and tasteless and that is extremely accurate. Skip the Mac and cheese but get the wings. Those won't disappoint you."

Latin Twist Cafe

★★★★☆ 4 (203) • $

"This is a really wonderful place. Not our first visit but it had been a while. We ordered a Cuban sandwich and some combo fajitas. The Cuban sandwich was perfectly presented, crispy outside and had very fresh ingredients. The combo fajitas came out super hot, fresh tortillas, and they also brought a side of very fresh sour cream. Perfectly cooked, seasoned and delicious. Drinks are self serve and that works fine. If you like Cuban food, definitely eat here!"

Flavaz Jamaican grille

★★★★☆ 4.3 (155) • $$

"Every time I go to FL, I Must Get Their Ackee and Ting. It's Delicious. They Prepare As You Order It, Not Sitting All Day. Give It A Try!"

Mangos Cafe And Specialty store

★★★★★ 4.7 (127) • $$

"It's heartwarming to see a successful Black woman-owned business thriving with a consistent line out the door. Some folks prioritize quality over quantity. Mangos delivers both at a reasonable price. Food is prepared in small batches. Only a few items like the whole red snapper, salmon, and shrimp are made to order. The small batch cooking ensures no one is leaving with food that's been sitting.The beef patties are even made from scratch. The best I've had. The one area for improvement is the Jerk Chicken. Considering the stellar cooking of the Jamaican owner/chef, I'm surprised the Jerk Chicken isn't smoked rather it's oven baked. Still pretty good. One of the best restaurants in the area and worth driving out of your way. Pro Tip: The Rum Punch will sneak up on you."

Caribbean Crown

★★★★☆ 4.4 (107) • $

"Y'all. This ain't a restaurant, but a portal to Port-of-Spain. I'm not sure what the good Lord intended when he wove this wrinkle into the fabric of space-time, but he's seen fit to grant all us sinners of the Gulf Coast with direct access to Trini takeout of the same spirit and substance as my Auntie Samaria's home cooking--at prices so low even the poorest among us may know The One True Roti. Everything--from the aromas of house-blend curry and handwritten menu displays to the DIY décor and friendly but strict service of the Trini nanas behind the counter--will silence all who doubt the validity of His miracles or the strength of His desire to see His Florida flock united with my Auntie's divine Doubles. To cross the threshold of Caribbean Crown is to actually set foot upon Trinidad and without any need of instruments of Babylon, like passports, or usurious currency exchanges.When eaten with family, the pepper sauce will bless your porch with the Breeze of the Indies, His Holy Breath that warms the shallow sea, but only so long as its flavors linger, so those ready to receive the fullness of their sacramental chana should be sure to request at least two cups of pepper sauce--and one cup of tamarind to ward off any nefarious spirits drawn to heat but repelled by sweet."

West Caribbean Cuban Restaurant

★★★★☆ 3.9 (133) • $$

"Gotta get that authentic Cuban food when I'm in Florida. Got me some fried green plantains, goat, beans and rice, and fried ripe plantains. I could seriously see ripe fried plantains everyday, they're so freakin good. My friend took me to get Cuban food while I visit. I don't think he's tried much Cuban food before. It was very authentic, at least as authentic as my-lack-of-perspective-self can understand. I want more already."

Tara's Roti Shop

★★★★☆ 3.5 (162) • $$

"Finally found some yummy doubles! I really love them and used to get them in Queens all the time. I'm so glad I found a place that makes them really well. I also ordered a roti and a curry chicken and they were also really good. My husband ordered a goat dish. This will be my go-to spot when I want a doubles fix."

Caribbean Twist

★★★★☆ 4.3 (101) • $$

"Carribean Twist3328 W Columbus Dr, Tampa, FL [email protected] The Perfect Mix of Cuban and Dominican Cuisine. Caribbean Twist is here to serve you the BEST Latin Food. I had the pleasure of visiting them this week and let me tell you, this place rocks. Great Latin Food. Lots of Options to choose from. Good Atmosphere. Friendly staff to attend you. I would definitely recommend to come visit them and try out thier food menu."

Tostones

★★★★☆ 3.7 (127) • $

"Ok... best Tostones I have had to date... they were crispy, soft, salty, and delicious! Yum! The Chicharron de Pollo (Fried Chicken) I had with the tostones... wow! Good flavor, and fun to eat (HOT! Should have let them cool a bit, but I was hungry, and they were yummy!) I will be back! And already thinking of what I want.. so many choices! :)"

Island Crew

★★★★☆ 4.1 (95) • $

"TLDR: Vegan Devil crab!!! Do it! Best jerk chicken in Tampa & complimentary water ice.We first tried island crew back when it was a food truck & I am so thankful they are still sharing this amazing food now at a new more permanent location. We drove 40mins to have dinner here tonight & it was so worth it. Solid portion size & super friendly service. Plenty of vegan options & the flavors are unmatched. Spicy jerk chicken & Cajun rice with cabbage, yummm. My husband had the chicken curry with red beans & rice, I of course tried it & man, it was so good. Parking can be limited as it's a popular dining option on a Saturday night, but do not let that deter you. It's a must try!!! This food smelled so good we couldn't even wait to take a picture before digging in."

Latin Bowl Restaurant-Brandon

★★★★★ 4.5 (69)

"My rating is 3.5 stars I ordered via Door Dash. Delivery was quick and everything was as requested. However, the food was cold and had to be reheated. After being packed it was delivered within 20 mins so the temperature it arrived it doesn't make sense. That complaint aside, the food was very tasty and all of the flavors complimented each other. Shredded Beef Rice Bowl- including small pieces of sweet plantains along with the cilantro lime sauce elevates this dish. I also included corn, tomatoes, lettuce and cheese. 5/5 Chicken Rice Bowl- the chicken was hard even after reheating. I included spinach, sweet plantains, tomatoes, corn, and cheese . The Jalapeño sauce added a very small kick to it and they were generous with the sauce. 4/5Beef Empanada- after reheating it lost its crispiness. The beef was well seasoned and included olives and a yellow something (not sure what it was) . 4/5 Free Chips and Salsa- Chips were crispy but salt less and the salsa had the consistency of marinara sauce. My husband and I were not fans of these. 2/5I would like to come in and try new items in person. I would also like to note for anyone that orders on Door Dash, you are limited with how you can customize the bowls. For example, you can choose your sauce but there isn't an option to let you put it on the side instead of on top."

Rumba Island Bar & Grill

★★★★☆ 3.7 (88)

"we are very glad we found this place. i have very friend and their bar menu/happy hour menu is great. see below :rumba st.pete happy hourall day! every day! two-for-one! $6.99your choice .. z -sangrias -rumba island signature libation- rumrita -classic margaritas- well cocktails $2.99 mugs o'beerbud light, miller lite, & landshark bar bites$5.99 all day everyday! -bay shrimp cocktail-lobster & shrimp bisque-fish spread- smoked chicken nachos -fire roasted jalapeños-firecracker shrimp -baked scallops - jumbo you-peel-em shrimp wings & clams75¢ each* - all day everyday! - jerk smoked chicken wings or - steamed clams*minimum order 4. dine in only on all food specials."

Caribbean Sandwich Shop

★★★★☆ 4.1 (63) • $

"Was in the area and our friend offered to buy as breakfast - he recommended we eat here. My hubby ordered the Cuban and I ordered a chicken sandwich (please note: the chicken is sautéed with onions and olives so if you don't like that, they can accommodate). The staff was very friendly. It was around 9am when we went and the music was already playing really loud so that would be my only "complaint". If I'm ever in the area, I'd pick up to go!"

Tropical Rhythm

★★★★☆ 3.7 (62) • $$

"I have to say that I'm very happy to have this Caribbean restaurant so close to home. I've passed by it many times when going to the post office. This time I decided to stop. At first, I thought they were closed. I pulled on the door handle and it didn't open very easily for me. You just have to pull harder to open it because the door sticks for some reason. Maybe I was too gentle. Anyway, the food smelled wonderful upon entering. There are also refrigerated drinks and natural juices to the right along the wall. The juices are priced differently depending on what you get so you may want to make your choice before ordering the food. They had all different kinds of juices. Some are very unique such as Irish Moss and Ginger Beer which both have a combination of various ingredients (all on the label). All the juices are lightly sweetened. I would go back just for the juice alone. It was really wonderful! So far my favorite is the guava pineapple, but the pineapple ginger was really good too. I went ahead and placed a regular size order of the oxtail in brown sauce with rice and peas and cabbage. I noticed like other reviewers that the person taking my order immediately went over to the sink to wash her hands before preparing my meal. I love that! It makes me feel very comfortable. It was ready within 10 minutes of ordering it. Everything I received was hot. It stayed hot for a while. The oxtail was very meaty and tender. The brown sauce wasn't as flavorful as other places, but I was super happy with the portion and side items as well. I went back the next day to try the jerk pork with cabbage and sweet plantains. The pork was so full of flavor. I typically don't like jerk seasoning but this one was really good, and maybe because I also got the Tropical Rhythm Island sauce on top. It added a sweet pepper flavor that really went well with the jerk seasoning. But hey, I do like sweet and savory so try it and decide for yourself. I also wished that I had more of the sweet plantains. These were so sweet and delicious. Just the way they should be. I'll be going back for many more visits. It was very comforting food (even the cabbage). Oh, and that juice really hit the spot. I want to try the tamarind and maybe something with passion fruit next time. I also saw sour sop (guanabana) and vegetable juices as well."

Dunn's River Island Cafe

★★★☆☆ 3.2 (82) • $$

"When I say a time was had, baby believe me a good time was had!Where do I begin? My family and I literally ordered one of everything off of the menu with items Togo. I tried to get pictures of each dish I sampled but once the drinks and shots I ordered kicked in, I lost track of some of the things I ate.Our waitress was beyond gorgeous and did a great job accommodating a party of 10. Fresh bread, mixed drinks, shots, and several different appetizers were coming out promptly back to back. For my entree I had the curry goat and oxtail which was cooked to perfection but the star of the show was the jerk chicken wings 10000/10!!Any real Jamaican knows how skeptical an older Jamaican is about trying any Caribbean food spot, but Dunns River Cafe surpassed the vibe check for sure. The elders couldn't stop talking about how good and authentic their food was. We finished our meals just before the crowd arrived (tip: they offer a lively brunch on weekends if that's the vibe you're going for.) Which was great because we felt like we had the entire restaurant to ourselves the full duration of our visit."

Jahiti Caribbean Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.8 (36)

"OMG! Everything I tried here was delectable. The food is made to order and the owner is very attentive. They are located in the corner of the Seffner shopping center next to the hair store. I purchased a groupon online so that helped save some money. The portions were huge! Although, I do feel as if I got more rice than meat. It would've been nice to get a little more. At least they weren't stingy with the gravy!I tried the legume and my GOD 10/10. I took a Jamaican beef patty to go. I was stuffed y'all! I had to take a lot of it to go. Definitely check them out! It is worth the experience. Plus the service is really good."

Lorna's One Stop Jerk Center Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.2 (42)

"Ok, so this spot is clutch. Best Jerk chicken I have ever had! High quality chicken and the Jerk sauce was phenomenal. The rice and bean are delicious. When it comes to sides I was told to make sure to get the cabbage. Aaand they were right it is so good. What surprised me the most was the corn bread. Best corn bread I have ever eaten. It is like a dessert. I will be going back and trying other items for sure!"

Everything Jerk Food Truck

★★★★☆ 4.4 (38) • $

"I gotta give this spot 5, yes 5 stars... You can smell the grill stinking (in a good way) up New Tampa for miles! It's hot out but how can you resist the smells of the Caribbean? How can you not want The Jerk?! I've admittedly driven by a few times, always saying, I'll stop next time... we'll, after living in Tampa for a year and a half, today's the day!!Man, the smoked turkey legs look like they came off of a dinosaur and they taste amazing. I've never had Rasta Pasta before but oh yeah, I'm a fan! I also ordered the red beans and rice and to my surprise they came with the Caribbean cabbage and plantain. I couldn't even eat half of the food so I have something to enjoy tomorrow. If you're in the area of Livingston and... I can't remember the cross street but "follow your nose, it always knows"!"

The Humming Bird Jerk House

★★★★☆ 3.8 (50)

"I was craving oxtail and really wanted to try this place since it's so close! When we walked in they have a small menu listed on the left of the register. They were unfortunately out of oxtail and many other menu items, so I chose Brown Beef Stew. Their entrees include 2 sides and plantains. You may also choose a size of small medium or large. I chose medium to be safe. They also have select pastries or beef patties in a case on the counter, so I also snagged a beef patty!! It so flaky and the meat was seasoned beautifully. It was so also pretty big in size!At the moment they are only doing to-go. When I got home and opened my box it was so heavy and stuffed to the brim! But it wasn't beef inside they just put chicken stew inside instead. I didn't really mind, I was thinking maybe it's all they left. Either way, it was so delicious. There was probably half of a small chicken in this box! The leg meat was fall off the bone tender and the spices were classic Jamaican flavor. Absolutely delicious!!! I chose rice and peas and cabbage as my sides. Both just delectable. Their rice and peas is honestly one of the best I've had. Overall, I will definitely be returning but maybe for lunch! I have a feeling they ran out of items early. I would highly recommend trying this place!!!"

SW Caribbean Delights

★★★★★ 4.6 (28) • $$

"I know, I gave it 5 stars and that never happens...but this place is really special. First, it is a carry-out only. Just enough room to get in, get your order and a few drinks and move on. We have been here twice in the past 3 weeks and tried different dishes each time. They have hit it out of the park with each one. Curry Goat - excellent, not too spicy. Curry Chicken - spot on perfect.Jerk Chicken - very good but not spicy enough for me. Still very tasty.Rice and peas - not overly dry like many I have had, very flavorful and cooked tender. (these are as good as the ones I cook). Plantains - excellent, sweet and nicely done.I always get a few Tings to chase it all down. It is hard to find these drinks in the states. They have a large assortment of caribbean sodas. I love this place and I will go back every Friday for my BBF until we pull out of Lakeland and head north for the summer."

B&G Prestige Jamaican Restaurant

★★★★★ 4.7 (25)

"This place is amazing. Support ball business. I am in live with their corn bread! It the best I ever had. The staff is super nice! They have great deals. The food is delicious and fresh! And the pace is clean. The prices are so reasonable."

Irie Bay Jamaican Cuisine

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (52) • $$

"Late lunch and wanted something different. Stopped in this restaurant and was greeted by this elderly lady. No one was inside eating which was strange but not unlikely with Hooters and McDonald's feet away. There isn't a menu, just 6 or so items written on a chalkboard. We ordered jerk chicken and curry chicken. Food was fresh and hot. Dined in and enjoyed a few cold sodas and patties. For the price I'd go back. The portion size is enough to share."

Rhythm Pon De Grille

★★★★☆ 3.9 (31)

"They have some very tasty oxtail stew! To be honest, I thought everything ordered was full of flavor. The steamed cabbage was the best I've had so far. I could even taste the coconut oil. The fried plantains were perfectly ripe and sweet. The oxtail was tender and savory. You couldn't see it in my picture, but the butter beans were all hidden under the oxtail.Everything arrived to our table hot, fresh, and delicious. We were initially told that the oxtail wasn't ready yet. It did take a while to come out, but it gave me time to catch up with my old work buddy. It was so worth the wait. I shared my Sour Sop Drink with my friend. It was her first time trying guanabana. We loved it! This particular Cariblend Juices brand is blended with cane sugar and lime juice. The juices are made locally. They had other flavors, but this one really caught my attention. I need more of these natural tropical drinks in my life. So refreshing! They also had many other Jamaican sodas (Ting), drinks, juices, and beer.As you know, these restaurants have fully functional kitchens and AC inside the shipping containers. The aroma coming out of Rhythm Pon de Grille at opening time was intoxicating. They have very limited seating inside. Not a problem. We took advantage of their fully shaded outdoor space. They have huge black umbrellas shading you from the sun. We were under a heat advisory that day, but it didn't feel like it where we were sitting. We got a cool breeze every now & then. Would I go back? Absolutely! I want to try the rice and peas next time. I was trying to be good by getting plantains instead. I missed my favorite part, which is the rice soaked in all the flavors of the stew. Next time!!!"

Sal Rosa

★★★★☆ 4 (23)

"We stopped in after dinner for some dessert. Their only options were gelato and churros so we went with the churros. They were excellent and had a good chocolate dipping sauce. In the morning we came here for our complementary hotel breakfast. It comes out on a large board with a variety of items. We were given an option between two flavors of muffins and two flavors of breakfast quiche pastry. The almond flavored granola was really good with the yogurt and berries. It was a light breakfast, but we had eaten so much the night before it was fine for us. My husband said the coffee at the restaurant was good and he got some to go. There's a coffee and gelato bar at the entrance of the restaurant. We were able to get a complementary specialty coffee here using his Marriott loyalty membership. I think that is only good for people staying at the hotel, but we were never asked for our hotel key. The waiter probably guessed that we were staying there. They didn't have many guests the night of December 23. Their dinner menu looked really good with Cuban cuisine. I would like to try dinner here sometime."

Calabash

★★★★☆ 4.3 (16)

"Spicy curry chicken or goat, peas & rice, plantains. Yum yum yum! The owner, Ms Kitty Mann, is a sweetie who wants people to relax with sidewalk dining and enjoy healthy food.The kitchen is open and very clean. I like the vibe here... and the food!"

Hines Caribbean Cuisine

★★★★☆ 4.4 (13)

"I feel like I stepped into the Caribbean. The spice level is amazing!!!! Enjoy your meal here for sure!!!!"

FIWI island style

★★★★★ 4.6 (10)

"Wow! We came because we saw the under new management sign for a BBQ place we'd tried a couple of times before.... Instead of BBQ, we found an amazing gem of a Jamaican restaurant....Everything we tried was simply amazing. The Oxtail was to die for. Perfectly seasoned and melt in your mouth.... The Jerked Chicken was the real deal.... Perfectly seasoned and barely hanging on the bone..... The Pepper Steak was covered in its own unique seasoning and also perfectly cooked....While the rice was also cooked to perfection, the cabbage was the crux de gras.... I've been to the Caribbean and Jamaica many times..... And the food doesn't get any better than this.... This hole in the wall, without even proper signage, is one of the very best eateries in the area...."

Yaya Southern Cuisine

★★★★☆ 3.8 (14)

"I eat there last week and the food was delicious! My dinner was roasted turkey wing, collards."

Jerk Hut - Seminole Heights

★★★☆☆ 2.9 (23) • $$

"Good vibes for connecting with friends over brunch, which was exactly my latest experience. Good food and great price for the Sunday buffet. The variety of options was appreciated and everyone in the brunch group was pleased with the experience; some were first timers. Good service."