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Jerk chicken lunch spots

Jerk chicken that carries a genuine, deep-smoke heat instead of just a dusting of mild seasoning.

Based on 862 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Jerk King image 1
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Restaurant

Old school grill serves fresh jerk chicken with a legit char right outside the store. Lunch offers generous portions with easy access to vegetables. Warm vibes and live drum music create a friendly, inviting spot perfect for a chill meal.

Lunch offers a nice variety with easy access to vegetables. Portions are generous enough to have leftovers for the next day and to share.

Freshly grilled outside in front of the store, the jerk chicken comes packed with authentic flavor and a legit char. It serves up hot, fresh portions often paired with rice and peas.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, flavorful, and absolutely fire."

"I've never tasted Jerk Chicken this good before."

"The jerk chicken here is amazing, smoky with just enough heat."

Good to know

1

No physical menu is available; check online for options.

2

The large platter costs $13 and the empanada costs $4.

3

Generous portions and reasonable prices make it a great value.

02
One Love image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Food cart emits spices and aromas that draw attention from outside. Atmosphere stays welcoming and friendly with great energy throughout the day. Lines form quickly during lunch rush but move fast, serving large portions of authentic Jamaican dishes like jerk chicken and oxtail.

Lunch truck draws a strong crowd with an intense lunch rush. Arriving by 11:30 a.m. helps avoid the busiest time. This spot stands out as a top lunch choice in the neighborhood.

Jerk chicken comes seasoned and smoked to perfection with a rich, authentic flavor. Both the jerk chicken and jerk pork stand out as must-try dishes with incredible taste and quality.

People are saying

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

"I loved the jerk chicken and oxtail plates at this Lunch Spot."

"I found the jerk chicken seasoned and smoked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open in Long Island City on Wednesday and Friday from 11am till the mid afternoon.

2

Go early if you want oxtail.

3

They take card payments.

03
Yawdie image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Small space with Caribbean heritage and island decor offers a cozy vibe like a family gathering. Jerk chicken sliders shine with perfect spice and pair well with jerk lemonade. Fast casual setting makes it a great lunch spot for a quick, satisfying meal.

Cozy, intimate vibe creates a feeling of eating lunch with friends. Fast casual setting makes it easy to pop in for a quick, satisfying meal.

Jerk chicken sliders stand out with perfect spice and tenderness. The jerk chicken pairs well with the jerk lemonade for a flavorful combo.

People are saying

"These sliders are so juicy and flavorful, you have to try them."

"I thought the jerk chicken slider was the bomb.com."

"This lunch spot has amazing jerk chicken and sliders."

Good to know

1

Every Sunday, they give away free ice cream.

2

Fried plantain strips are available upon request.

3

The restaurant is very allergen friendly.

04
Nyam Sum Jamaican Cuisine image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Takeout-only spot offers authentic Jamaican cuisine with generous portions and natural seasoning. The atmosphere carries friendly vibes and the aroma of island spices. Food sells out early, so ordering ahead is common.

Lunch specials offer great prices and generous portions. Feeding four adults for $60 with leftovers is common, and the Beet Lunch special stands out.

Jerk chicken offers authentic heat and a smoky flavor with perfect seasoning and tenderness. It pairs well with rice and peas and plantain, delivering a consistently excellent taste.

People are saying

"I thought the jerk chicken here was the best I had."

"The food here is authentic and tastes like a trip to Jamaica."

"The Jerk Chicken is perfectly seasoned and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only and does not offer dining in.

2

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly.

3

It's best to call in advance for the rasta pasta.

05
Mo's Island Spice Authentic Jamaican Cuisine image 1

Small, colorful space offers a cozy, homey vibe with soft reggae music setting a relaxing mood. Bright, vibrant decor and aroma of Caribbean spices create an inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy authentic Jamaican cuisine with standout dishes like oxtail and jerk chicken.

Great spot for quick lunch with options to take on the go. Serves reliable meals that fit well into a busy day.

Chicken stays moist and tender even when reheated. It comes marinated to perfection with a juicy, savory flavor.

People are saying

"The Jamaican food here is authentic, flavorful, and packed with bold taste."

"The Jerk Chicken here is moist and has just the right amount of seasoning."

"This Lunch Spot's food is fresh, delicious, and homemade."

Good to know

1

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible near the restaurant.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

3

Expect some items to sell out by early afternoon, especially oxtail.

06
Jerk House Caribbean Restaurant image 1

Small, clean spot with generous portions offers a lively vibe with loud 90s Yardie music. Lunch features medium jerk pork and large jerk chicken meals under $15. Genuine hospitality makes it a standout lunch spot in Midtown.

Lunch offers generous portions like medium jerk pork and large jerk chicken meals. The spot stands out for its genuine hospitality uncommon in Midtown lunch places.

Jerk chicken comes with healthy portions and costs less than $15 after tax. It stands out as delicious and is often mentioned alongside other flavorful dishes like oxtails and goat curry.

People are saying

"The food here tastes amazing and flavorful."

"I found the jerk chicken to be the best I've ever had."

"The staff here is super friendly and makes you feel like family."

Good to know

1

The price is around $20 a plate, which is very well priced for this area.

2

Portion sizes are generous.

3

If you are taking the train, you can take the subway at Columbus Circle on 59th Street.

07
Latin Corner image 1
Puerto Rican restaurant

Restaurant showcases authentic Puerto Rican atmosphere with beautiful rainforest-themed decor and energetic salsa music. The vibe is cozy and vibrant, creating a welcoming space for enjoying traditional dishes and refreshing drinks.

Lunch features a special food bar alongside a menu with generous portions. Options include appetizers, lunch specials, and desserts with a great selection.

BBQ jerk chicken comes with bold, flavorful spices and pairs well with Rasta pasta. Both dishes offer a rich, savory taste that stands out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"This lunch spot has delicious food, especially the mufongo."

"The BBQ Jerk Chicken and Rasta Pasta were amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on Central Park Ave near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers unique dishes like Apple Pie Empanada.

3

Expect higher prices for authentic Puerto Rican meals.

08
Kemo's Hot Kitchen Bites image 1

Open kitchen creates a warm, smoky atmosphere perfect for a family-friendly vibe. Lunch specials feature best lamb chops in NYC with generous portions. Jerk chicken shines with spicy seasoning and pairs well with Yemeni rice and dips.

Lunch specials offer well worth the money portions with super tasty plate lunches. Lamb Chops in the Lunch Platter stand out as best in NYC for flavor and quality.

Jerk chicken comes with deliciously spicy seasoning and pairs well with Yemeni rice and dips. The flavors are well balanced and stand out clearly.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good and tasty."

"This lunch spot has amazing, flavorful food."

"The jerk chicken here is delicious and spicy."

Good to know

1

The establishment is a Muslim establishment and everything is HALAL.

2

The restaurant is very neat and clean.

3

The menu at Kemo's Hot Kitchen Bits offers a great variety, catering to all tastes.

09
Toss't and Press't image 1

Small restaurant offers a cozy setting with a welcoming atmosphere and community-centered vibe. Free samples and a new seating area with books create a relaxed space. Music plays softly, enhancing the inviting energy throughout.

Sandwiches come as lunch specials paired with blue lemonade, a must-have combo. This spot serves as a reliable and favored choice for midday meals.

Jerk chicken delivers a perfect spice balance and bursts with flavor. The jerk chicken sandwich stands out and pairs well with plantains and sliced eggs.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and so fresh."

"I was stuck on the jerk chicken sandwich, it was so good."

"This lunch spot's food tasted amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Toss't and Press't is a carry out only restaurant.

2

Regular bowls cost about $16, with oxtail being an extra charge.

3

One bowl can easily serve two people and is very filling.

10
Flaming Grill image 1
Halal restaurant

Bright, spacious dining offers a warm, friendly vibe with silverware quality. Fast, friendly service shines at lunch, especially with the rotisserie chicken special. Jerk chicken is juicy and tender, packed with perfect spice and flavor.

Fast and friendly service stands out during lunch hours. A rotisserie chicken special draws many in, making it a solid choice for quick lunch options.

Jerk chicken comes out incredibly juicy and tender with a perfect amount of spice. The meat stays moist and flavorful throughout the platter.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"The Jerk Chicken here is so juicy and flavorful."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is delicious."

Good to know

1

You can get half a rotisserie chicken and two exceptional sides for about $13.

2

Everything is halal at The Flaming Grill.

3

The prices are fantastic for NYC.

11
Island Grill Harlem Modern Caribbean Kitchen image 1

Lively fusion restaurant with clean, beautiful decor and a welcoming atmosphere. Music features vibrant DJs that enhance the great vibes throughout the space. The energy reflects a strong Caribbean influence, creating an inviting and enjoyable environment.

Offers a $6 lunch special that stands out for its value and quality. Serves modern Caribbean dishes that make it a popular go-to lunch spot on 125th Street.

Perfectly seasoned jerk chicken tastes just like back in Jamaica. It comes in great portion sizes and is cooked fresh, making it an absolute standout.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and phenomenal."

"The jerk chicken here is so good and fresh."

"The lunch special here is unmatched and a great deal."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only and does not offer sit down service.

2

The restaurant accepts cards for payment.

3

You get a good amount of food for $6.50.

12
Doctor's Cave Cafรฉ image 1

Cozy cafรฉ with vintage decor and a jazzy vibe creates a warm, friendly atmosphere like eating at a friend's house. Small indoor and outdoor seating areas complement the open kitchen where food is freshly made on-premises. Regulars enjoy phenomenal espresso and carefully curated music while working or relaxing.

Cozy atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming lunch spot with great plant-based options. Lunch plates feel freshly made, paired with seriously good coffee and tasty pastries.

Jerk chicken sandwich comes sliced perfectly and juicy with a customizable level of jerk spice heat. Options include sandwiches and platters featuring jerk pork belly alongside the chicken.

People are saying

"You have to try the Jamaican coffee; it's a must-try."

"I loved the delicious, homemade lunch plate here."

"The Jerk Chicken sandwich is juicy and has the right amount of spice."

Good to know

1

Now offering a Saturday brunch pop-up from 9 AM until sold out.

2

Everything is freshly made on-premises.

3

All ingredients are locally sourced, so they sometimes run out of items.

13
Simply Natural Grill House image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Street food grill offers a laidback island vibe with loud Jamaican music and a sidewalk setup that fills the air with smoky aromas. The atmosphere feels chill and lively, creating a sense of community and relaxation. Generous portions and authentic flavors attract those seeking genuine Jamaican cuisine.

Lunch offers great deals with nourishing food made with care. Options suit casual or quick meals easily.

Crispy browned skin and juicy meat define the jerk chicken here. The aroma is irresistible, and the platter offers amazing portions with authentic flavors that transport you to Jamaica.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is amazing, falling off the bone."

"This Lunch Spot's jerk chicken is incredible with perfect crispy skin."

"The jerk chicken here is spicy and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The pop up is located on Broadway and Great Jones near NYU.

2

The food costs around $15-20 per meal.

3

The portion sizes are large, ensuring great value.

14
D'Melting Pot image 1
Restaurant

Jamaican restaurant with colorful walls and few dining tables offers a clean, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features varied, flavorful dishes with generous portions at reasonable prices. The vibe reflects authentic Caribbean roots, attracting those seeking genuine Jamaican cuisine.

Lunch features Caribbean cuisine with lunch specials that highlight authentic flavors. The spot offers a straightforward menu focused on midday meals.

Perfectly seasoned jerk chicken appears in sandwiches, wraps, and plates with rice and peas. Options include a jerk chicken sandwich and a jerk chicken wrap served with fries.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"The food here is amazing, especially the oxtail."

"The jerk chicken here is wonderfully seasoned and just the right amount of spice."

Good to know

1

The 6 piece BBQ wings with a side of fries cost $13.82.

2

Parking can be rough depending on the time of day.

3

Expect large portions that provide good value.

15
Island Grill Bronx Modern Caribbean Kitchen image 1

Open kitchen design creates a homey atmosphere with a cozy vibe. Jerk chicken is grilled fresh with a spicy kick and served with rice and peas. Lunch specials offer great value under $10, making it an affordable spot for a tasty meal.

Lunch specials offer great value with a perfect portion size and include a drink for under $10. Prices stay affordable and consistent across multiple visits.

Jerk chicken comes fresh from the grill with a sauce that adds a spicy kick. It pairs well with rice and peas and cabbage for a classic combo.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and flavorful."

"The seafood here is authentic, delicious, and full of epic flavor."

"The lunch special here is a great deal, often including a drink."

Good to know

1

The restaurant maintains high cleanliness standards throughout the dining area.

2

There are three tables available for seating, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The menu offers a wide variety of Caribbean dishes to choose from.

16
Twin Grills image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Caribbean restaurant offers clean, well-maintained space with lovers rock music playing softly. The atmosphere is hot and humid, which can feel uncomfortable. Known for juicy, flavorful jerk chicken and generous portions, it draws a crowd seeking authentic Jamaican flavors.

Lunch specials offer jerk chicken, rice and peas, plantains, and potato salad with generous portions priced between $7 and $10. The spot serves both breakfast and lunch with reasonably priced meals and options for pick-up.

Fresh off the grill, the jerk chicken stays tender and juicy with a smoky flavor that is not too spicy but still packs a delicious kick. It comes in generous portions often paired with rice and peas, plantains, or curry rice, all well-seasoned and balanced.

People are saying

"I found the jerk chicken succulent, smoky, and flavorful."

"This Lunch Spot's food is normally good and delicious."

"I found their Oxtail to be one of the best."

Good to know

1

They have $7 & $9 lunch specials for jerk, curry, or fried chicken.

2

They have a $6 food special from 12pm - 3pm.

3

If you get any large portion meal, you also get jerk chicken for free!

17
BunNan image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Caribbean restaurant shines with Haitian charm and a hidden backyard for fresh air. Lunch features griot with plantains and passion fruit juice, perfect for quick or group meals. Sweet and spicy jerk chicken spices up pizzas and fries, adding bold flavor to every bite.

Lunch includes griot with plantains, a side salad, chicken patty, and passion fruit juice. The cook prepares meals with care. Hosts create a welcoming atmosphere for quick or group lunches.

Sweet and spicy jerk chicken appears in several dishes like pizza, plantain boats, and fries. The plantain sandwich and fries deliver a strong, flavorful kick.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"This lunch spot's food was so delicious, I couldn't stop ordering."

"The jerk chicken slider on sweet plantain was unforgettable."

Good to know

1

They close at 8pm on Sundays.

2

Happy hour runs with special deals on food and drinks.

3

Game nights occur every Friday, attracting a lively crowd.

18
Kingston Bakery Harlem image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Caribbean bakery with authentic vibe and warm, welcoming atmosphere filled with gospel and reggae music. Space offers takeout only, creating a down-to-earth, home-like feel. Artwork and a fireplace add to the cozy environment.

Offers a lunch special that is both delicious and a great deal. Serves plenty of other tasty options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Excellent quality jerk chicken offers a great taste and spice level with large portions that can feed multiple people. It often sells out by evening, so arriving early helps secure this popular dish.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and hot."

"The Jerk Chicken here is juicy and flavorful."

"This lunch spot has delicious patties and a variety of meals."

Good to know

1

This place is only for takeout; there is no space for dine-in.

2

The establishment is closed at 6:29 PM.

3

The menu states 'WEEKDAY Lunch Special', but Friday at 12PM is considered a weekend.

19
Datz Deli image 1

Tiny space with cramped interior and limited seating creates an intimate setting. Friendly atmosphere feels like family, enhanced by great music and a welcoming vibe. Unique Caribbean flavors and specialty patties define the culinary experience.

Lunch offers a $10 deal that is both delicious and filling. The jerk chicken combo stands out as a tasty option during the 1 to 3 PM lunch special.

Jerk chicken features a perfect amount of spice and comes in a filling Mac & Cheese patty packed with plenty of meat. It also appears in sandwiches and burgers, offering a delicious BBQ flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the oxtail sandwich was the best I'd ever tasted."

"The deli sandwiches here are stacked high with fresh ingredients."

"The jerk chicken lunch combo here is super flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

The lunch special runs from 1 PM to 3 PM, offering great value.

2

Street parking is available, but it's limited and can be challenging.

3

Datz opens late, even on Sundays, until 12:00 AM.

20
Cookerz Blend image 1
Caribbean restaurant

Open concept kitchen and Caribbean reggae music create a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Small but well-designed space features a bar with a mixologist and a DJ enhancing the energetic vibe. Guests enjoy authentic Jamaican dishes alongside strong, flavorful rum punches.

Lunch features a stew chicken special that delivers solid flavor. The spot offers a satisfying lunch experience that draws people from afar.

Jerk chicken delivers a full of flavor punch with a flavorful kick that stands out. It pairs well with other dishes like curry goat for a bold taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here, especially the oxtail, is amazing home cooking."

"The jerk chicken here is amazing."

"I loved the curry chicken at this Lunch Spot."

Good to know

1

Dinner prices range from $18-$30.

2

Parking is a challenge.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly oriented.

21
Roti on the Run image 1
Restaurant

Bright, clean space with Caribbean vibes and lively music creates a welcoming, family-like atmosphere. Seating fills quickly during busy times, offering both indoor and outdoor options. Energy stays upbeat with friendly service and a focus on authentic Guyanese flavors.

Lunch offers a customizable plate option and a lunch special that provides good value. This spot works well for a regular midday meal.

Jerk chicken comes fall off the bone and is juicy and full of flavor. It pairs well with fluffy rice and peas, often served with oxtail sauce for extra taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has incredible flavors."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and satisfying."

"The jerk chicken here is fall off the bone and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking can be difficult to find near the restaurant.

3

Customers should arrive at least 2 hours before closing to ensure their meal choice.

22
Vegan On The Fly image 1
Vegan restaurant

Narrow indoor space offers quick vegan lunch with spicy jerk chicken dishes. Heated outdoor patio provides a comfortable spot away from the vulgar music inside. Crowd enjoys unique vegan flavors in a lively, casual setting.

Offers quick vegan lunch options ideal for grabbing on the go. Serves as a reliable spot for daily or nearby work lunches with consistent availability.

Spicy jerk chicken appears in several dishes like the mac & cheese bowl and vegan loaded fries, all noted for being filling and flavorful. Vegan versions of jerk chicken also stand out as must-tries.

People are saying

"The vegan chopped cheese is exactly what I was looking for."

"This lunch spot's falafel and gyros are delicious."

"The Jerk Chicken here is so flavorful and has a nice spice."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is takeout only until further notice.

2

The restaurant offers a meat-free platter and loaded fries on Fridays.

3

There is no public restroom available at the restaurant.

23
4 Milli Cafe & Caribbean Cuisine INC image 1

Modern, clean space with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere. Music plays at a lively volume that can sometimes make ordering challenging. Known for authentic Caribbean cuisine and generous portions at reasonable prices, it attracts those seeking quality and flavor.

Lunch specials cost around $10 and include a few pieces of jerk chicken with a mound of rice and peas. The spicy sauce is strong and portions feel a bit small without extra sides like cabbage.

Jerk Chicken stands out as a hearty portion that can satisfy two people. It pairs well with dishes like oxtail dinner and Rasta pasta, offering a flavorful and filling meal.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is so tender and flavorful."

"The jerk chicken here is cooked to perfection and the sauce is divine."

"This Lunch Spot's food packs a big punch with huge portions."

Good to know

1

Prices are reasonable, with the medium pasta and oxtail costing $24.50 after tax.

2

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for two people.

3

Credit cards are accepted without issues, and tipping is available when paying by card.

24
Green Leaf Bistro NYC image 1

Restaurant offers an organic feel with clean, inviting decor and a warm atmosphere suitable for solo or family dining. Open food bar presents healthy meals with a twist, emphasizing fresh, distinct flavors. Staff create a welcoming environment that balances health, taste, and comfort.

Offers healthy lunch options with perfect portion sizes that suit midday meals well.

Jerk chicken appears in several dishes like tacos, wraps, and bowls. The jerk chicken taco stands out as a notable option.

People are saying

"I found the healthy foods here to be amazingly fresh and tasty."

"I loved their Jerk Chicken; it's made with healthy ingredients."

"The Lunch Spot's food is always fresh and filling."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a vegetarian menu with various healthy options.

2

Parking is hard for the location on Liberty.

3

The build your own salad option costs about $15 when adding desired ingredients.

25
Robinson Valley image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Busy takeout spot inside a ghost kitchen offers authentic Jamaican cuisine with fast delivery and great prices. The atmosphere is quiet, catering mainly to lunch crowds near courts. Signature dishes like oxtail and rice and peas stand out for their rich flavor and popularity.

Oxtail lunch special stands out as a solid choice during lunch hours. Ordering online works well even on a rainy day, making it a reliable lunch option near the courts.

Jerk chicken comes very juicy and looks appealing when served. It pairs well with rice and peas, cole slaw, and plantain, offering a real authentic taste.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is so tender and flavorful."

"I found the Jamaican food here to be authentic and comforting."

"The food at this Lunch Spot is so flavorful and fresh."

Good to know

1

Food sells out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

The restaurant is located inside a Door Dash ghost kitchen.

3

Finding the restaurant can be tricky; look for the Door Dash sign.

26
Tings image 1
Jamaican restaurant

Booth-style setup with plenty of counter seating inside a bustling market creates a laid back vibe with chill music that complements the lively surroundings. The atmosphere balances vibrant energy and a slow, comfortable calmness, making it a relaxed spot amid market noise.

Lunch offers amazing flavors and a vibrant vibe that fits well for a midday break. It suits those working nearby looking for a solid meal.

Jerk chicken falls off the bone and carries a savory, not overly sweet flavor. It pairs well with sides like coke slaw, beans and rice, and pineapple salsa in dishes like rice bowls and burritos.

People are saying

"I found the jerk chicken tender, juicy, and flavorful."

"The mac and cheese here is special and incredibly tasty."

"The oxtail and curried goat at this Lunch Spot are unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Seating is limited to the Market's tables scattered throughout the building.

2

No food is available at 7:30 PM EST.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free options.

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