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Jerk chicken and oxtail in Tampa

A plate of jerk chicken and oxtail that respects the depth of both, rather than treating one as an afterthought to the other.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Wha Gwaan Jamaica Jamaica image 1
Wha Gwaan Jamaica Jamaica image 2
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Restaurant offers lively Jamaican vibe with reggae music and colorful dรฉcor featuring Jamaican flags and jerseys. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting, with a central bar and wood floors creating a welcoming space. Live music and karaoke add energy, drawing people together in a fun, authentic setting.

Smoky flavor and great char define the jerk chicken here. It stays tender and falls off the bone, especially in the Fried Jerk Chicken, which packs flavor even without sauce.

Oxtail comes tender and fall-off-the-bone, often paired with white rice. It appears in platters alongside curried goat and jerk chicken, offering a rich, savory experience.

People are saying

"I thought the Jamaican food here was the best."

"The oxtail here is so tender it basically melts."

"I found the Jerk Chicken tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday from 6-10pm, great for families.

2

Live reggae performances occur on Saturdays, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

3

Expect a lively crowd on weekends, especially during karaoke nights.

02
Beeโ€™s Island Kitchen image 1

Hole-in-the-wall restaurant offers authentic Jamaican flavors with large portion sizes at a fixed low price. The space is carryout only with no dine-in or seating options, but features upgraded air conditioning for comfort while waiting. The vibe is casual and unpretentious, focusing on comfort food rather than decor.

Juicy and packed with flavor, the jerk chicken stands out for its amazing taste and rich seasoning. It pairs well with curry chicken and oxtail, offering a satisfying, authentic experience.

Tender texture and finger-licking good flavor define the oxtail here. Both large and small orders come well cooked and consistently satisfying.

People are saying

"The Jerk Chicken here is amazing, perfectly made with Jamaican spices."

"The curry goat is fall-off-the-bone tender and deeply seasoned."

"I thought the oxtail was so finger-licking good."

Good to know

1

Beeโ€™s Island Kitchen is carryout only; no dine-in available.

2

Lunch specials are available from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

3

Expect a wait time of about 12 minutes for food.

03
Hines Caribbean Cuisine image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Jamaican restaurant offers authentic Caribbean cuisine with generous portions and affordable lunch specials. Atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, making it a comfortable spot for quick meals. Signature dishes include jerk chicken, oxtail, and rice and peas seasoned to perfection.

Smoky and tender, the jerk chicken delivers bold flavor and a satisfying texture. It pairs well with rice and peas and cabbage, creating a well-rounded meal.

Oxtails come tender and well-seasoned, often served with rice and peas. The flavor is good, sometimes needing a bit more punch, but overall they pair well with cabbage and jerk sides.

People are saying

"The lunch special is such a good deal, it's a steal."

"The jerk chicken here is smoky and tender."

"The oxtail here is seasoned to perfection and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from Monday to Friday for $6.50.

2

The lunch special includes cabbage, plantain, and rice or rice and peas.

3

Large plates are available for $12 or $13.

04
J&J Jam'Soul image 1
Family restaurant

Family restaurant offers authentic Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine with a quiet, homie atmosphere that encourages deep conversations. Indoor seating features clean, simple decor and reggae music plays softly, enhancing the warm, welcoming vibe.

Jerk chicken delivers a solid spice tingle that cuts through greasiness. The jerk chicken patty holds up well, and sides like collards and candied yams complement it nicely.

Oxtail comes with rich gravy and plenty of meat for the price. It pairs well with sides like candied yams and Mac and cheese.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I thought the oxtail here was the best I've had in Tampa."

"The Jerk Chicken here falls right off the bone."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times on weekends, especially during brunch.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

05
Steaming Pots West Africa Cuisine image 1

Space blends beautiful African art with a warm, inviting atmosphere and a cozy patio. Music pulses with live DJs and afro beats, creating lively energy especially on weekends. Guests enjoy authentic West African dishes in a setting that feels like home.

Bold flavor defines the jerk chicken here, making it stand out even for those who don't usually like it. It pairs well with jollof rice and Efo riro for a full, vibrant meal.

Rich oxtail stew stands out with perfectly cooked oxtails and deep flavor. It pairs well with jolof rice for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and full of flavor."

"The oxtail stew was tender, meaty, and flavorful."

"The Jerk Chicken here is so vibrantly seasoned and full of bold flavor."

Good to know

1

They have a buffet every Sunday with additional food options not on the menu.

2

You should stop by on Sunday for the $33 buffet.

3

They host an open mic event every third Wednesday.

06
Caribbean Crown image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Caribbean restaurant blends Indian/Jamaican fusion with Halal certification and vegetarian and vegan options. Atmosphere feels inviting and cozy, suitable for family and friends. Known for authentic roti and doubles, it offers vibrant flavors at reasonable prices.

Jerk chicken delivers impressive flavor and tenderness with a respectable kick that builds gradually. It features authentic Caribbean spices that stand out clearly.

Oxtail dishes come with flavorful seasoning and often include sides like rice, beans, and cabbage. The oxtail roti scores well for taste but portions are small for the price.

People are saying

"The curry goat here is phenomenal and incredibly flavorful."

"The oxtail here is so flavorful."

"The Jerk Chicken here is impressively tasty and has a respectable kick."

Good to know

1

They offer great vegetarian and vegan options.

2

Caribbean Crown offers Halal options.

3

The prices at Caribbean Crown are lower than average.

07
Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour image 1

Speakeasy-style space with a secret entrance behind a bookshelf creates a unique setting. Live music and a jazz vibe fill the room, offering outstanding entertainment and ambient tunes. Cocktails like espresso martinis and rum punch complement the warm, inviting atmosphere that draws people in and keeps energy lively.

Well-seasoned jerk chicken appears in multiple dishes like a Caesar salad and with Gouda mac and cheese. It pairs with sides such as plantains, cabbage, greens, and cornbread.

Braised oxtail stands out with rich flavor and tender texture. Dishes like oxtail and grits and oxtail with shrimp combine hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"You have to try the spectacular oxtail shepherd's pie."

"The jerk chicken here is so good and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to ensure entrance, especially for special events.

2

Happy hour features special drinks and appetizers, typically from 4-7pm.

3

Live music nights occur regularly, enhancing the atmosphere.

08
Jerk Pit image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean atmosphere fills the space with reggae music and colorful decor creating a warm and welcoming vibe. The energy stays lively and authentic, making it feel like home. The dining area is small but clean, hosting a crowd that appreciates genuine Jamaican culture.

Smoked jerk chicken delivers a strong, authentic flavor. The sandwich comes with fries and fried plantains, making it a solid choice for a meal.

Oxtails come tender and slip off the bone with a sauce full of great flavor. Portions are generous, paired often with rice, beans, and cabbage.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, well-seasoned, and deeply satisfying."

"The oxtail here is flavorful and just like home."

"The Jerk Chicken here is so juicy and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Sundays have dinner pricing, which is considered worth it.

2

The weekday lunch specials offer great value.

3

There are many vegan options available.

09
Jerk Hut Jamaican Express - Food Truck image 1

Tiny food truck serves authentic Jamaican dishes with huge portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere is busy and casual, with most orders for takeout and limited seating. Food is flavorful and fresh, featuring items like jerk chicken, oxtail, and curry chicken.

Tender, perfectly seasoned jerk chicken comes with rice and peas or beans and cabbage. Portions fill the box with sweet plantain and mac and cheese for a solid value.

Oxtail here comes incredibly tender and saucy, with a flavor that many find authentic and satisfying. It pairs well with jerk chicken and curry goat for a full Jamaican meal.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is out of this world delicious."

"I found the jerk chicken tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The oxtail here is tender and out of this world."

Good to know

1

Jerk Hut Jamaican Express is a food truck, not a sit-down restaurant.

2

Prices are affordable, around $20 per person for a meal and drink.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the money.

10
Dunns River Island Cafe image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Old building hosts a lively Jamaican restaurant with live band and DJ music creating a friendly, chill vibe. The atmosphere blends authentic Caribbean flavors with an inviting, relaxed energy. Regulars enjoy bottomless mimosas and a brunch menu that highlights bold, flavorful dishes.

Jerk chicken comes with rich gravy and offers a flavorful, satisfying taste. It appears in combos and bowls alongside curry chicken, rice and beans, and cabbage.

Oxtails come fall off the bone tender with savory gravy. They pair with rice and peas and cabbage for a well-cooked, flavorful meal.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, bursting with rich Jamaican flavors."

"I loved the tender and flavorful oxtail."

"I found the jerk chicken bowl flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Brunch is offered on Sundays, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Karaoke night is a popular event, attracting many visitors.

3

Reservations are required for large parties, and a $30 fee is charged to hold tables.

11
One Stop Jerk Center Jamaican image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall Jamaican restaurant with a family-run atmosphere and somewhat dark interior. Offers authentic Caribbean food with generous portions and a spicy kick, especially in jerk chicken and greens. Prices stay reasonable while delivering a clean and inviting space.

Jerk chicken comes with rich seasoning and pairs well with collard greens, cabbage, and sweet potatoes. The dish is consistently flavorful and satisfying.

Oxtail here is tender and falling off the bone. It carries a rich, flavorful taste that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The oxtail here is so tender and flavorful."

"The jerk chicken here was delicious and on point."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers delivery services for convenient dining at home.

2

Expect large portion sizes for a reasonable price.

3

The menu features a wide variety of authentic Caribbean dishes.

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