A Jamaican, Caribbean adventure, but in Abuja
Tucked in neatly at the basement of 16 Bangui Street in Wuse II, Abuja, is the uniquely-named Jerk Shack. Offering Jamaican and Caribbean fare in a chic and homely environment, it’s one of the capital city’s new restaurants. Quite the Instagram star, with dazzling photos, I decided to try out this restaurant in real-life. With […]
Tucked in neatly at the basement of 16 Bangui Street in Wuse II, Abuja, is the uniquely-named Jerk Shack. Offering Jamaican and Caribbean fare in a chic and homely environment, it’s one of the capital city’s new restaurants. Quite the Instagram star, with dazzling photos, I decided to try out this restaurant in real-life. With a different set of friends each time, every visit proved to be different from the other, and not just because of the impressive menu.
For the rich taste on offer here, it is important to pick well, so one doesn’t end up still hungry, or worse still, overfed. That’s why I am pleased that the food served offers up character. For instance the platter of Jerk Chicken, Island Wings, Beef Kebab and Sweet Potato Fries lending itself easily to sharing by a trio of moderately hungry friends. Then for the hungry individual, one can’t go wrong with the Tropical Calamari, Oxtail and Butter Beans, Steamed Rice, Plantain and Choice Salad.
The salads on offer are also interesting in their composition, but with their most redeeming quality being their freshness. Lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, all taste as fresh as they can be. So much so that I personally feel it is a crime to drizzle any kind of dressing over them.
The Jerk Shack’s drinks list is almost as interesting and eclectic as the main menu itself. But a standout is the Mint and Lemon Cooler, which needs to be tasted to be believed. It helps that it is served in quaint, unique jar-like cups.
The pricing range can be said to be on the moderate side, which is perfectly understandable when you factor in non-Nigerian ingredients.
My only minus for this remarkable establishment is the waiting time after ordering. During my last visit there, our order arrived a whopping 30 minutes after. But a serving staff member explained that all dishes are cooked fresh. Well, I can live with that. And speaking of the staff, they are all very warm and welcoming. in a most organic way, with nothing forced about their smiles or hellos.
Underscored by great music, perfect furniture, and a squeaky-clean restroom, the ambience is welcoming, with many a young patron spotted Snapchat-ing their experience. There is, interestingly, a mini bookstore with a small-though-interesting selection of books by authors from Jamaica or the Caribbean. That’s all next to some rare bottled sauces for sale. This adds to the overall experience, adding more texture to an already delicious adventure, in a simple but memorable way.