Island Spice in Jackson: Taste of the Caribbean

Whenever a local Jacksonian is asked what their favorite thing is about Jackson, most people would tell you about the food scene. Helping to fill that plate, Taste of the Caribbean is a Jackson staple with dedicated regulars.

Credit: Ansley Crabtree/TREE Design Co

Food in the City With Soul has always reflected the many cultures that shape the city and Taste of the Caribbean—from their new location downtown—brings the bold, vibrant flavors of the islands to central Mississippi.

A New Home in the Heart of Downtown Jackson

With a new location in the heart of downtown (where The Elite restaurant used to stand), Taste of the Caribbean has become a go-to spot for locals looking for something a little different from the usual lunch or dinner rotation. The restaurant specializes in traditional Caribbean dishes that balance heat, sweetness and spice in ways that feel both comforting and exciting.

For many folks, the experience is as much about discovery as it is about the food itself. Caribbean cuisine draws from African, European and indigenous traditions, blending techniques and ingredients that developed across generations in Jamaica, Trinidad and other island cultures. At Taste of the Caribbean, those influences come together in dishes that feel both familiar and new.

What’s on the Menu: Jerk Chicken, Curry Goat and Island Favorites

The Jamaican-focused kitchen is known for its jerk chicken, a dish built on layers of seasoning and slow cooking that gives the meat its signature smoky and spicy flavor. Curry goat, another favorite, arrives tender and deeply spiced, often paired with rice and peas (a Caribbean staple) or steamed cabbage. Fried plantains add a touch of sweetness to the plate, while patties and other island staples round out the menu.

The restaurant has a loyal following among locals who appreciate bold flavors and generous portions. Lunch hours often bring a steady stream of regulars stopping in for a quick plate before heading back to work, while evenings draw families and groups of friends. The new location now has a full bar, couches and televisions. While it may feel more like a club, the tastes are rooted in culture and soul.

Taste of the Caribbean is now located in the former Elite Building at 141 E. Capitol Street
Credit: Ansley Crabtree/TREE Design Co

Part of Jackson’s Growing Culinary Landscape

Taste of the Caribbean also reflects the broader evolution of Jackson’s food scene. From Southern meets fusion at Hal & Mal’s to global flavors like Spice Avenue and Thai Time, these spots are diversifying Jackson, and helping the city continue to grow as a diverse and welcoming dining destination.

Richard Higgins
Owner, Chef Richard Higgins
Credit: Ansley Crabtree/TREE Design Co
Peter Kelly

Author

Peter Kelly

Peter Kelly is a storyteller who moves between film, writing, and business strategy to capture ideas with clarity and imagination. His creative work spans documentary filmmaking, narrative development, and photography shaped by years of exploring cultures and adventures from the American South to the far reaches of the globe. His work is guided by curiosity, a love of wild places, and a commitment to stories that unravel human connection. In his free time, Peter can typically be found rappelling, scuba diving, or reading.

Related Content: