Introduction to Caribbean Restaurants in Chicago
If you're looking for a taste of the Caribbean in the city of Chicago, you're in luck. From food trucks to family-owned restaurants, there are a variety of options available to satisfy your cravings for flavorful and aromatic dishes.
Phlavz
Located on W Maxwell Street, Phlavz is a popular food truck specializing in Caribbean cuisine. Their menu offers a range of dishes inspired by Jamaican and Trinidadian flavors, including jerk chicken, curry goat, and plantains.
Garifuna Flava Caribbean Restaurant: A Taste of Belize
Named after the Garifuna people of Central America, this family-owned restaurant on W 63rd Street serves up a mix of Caribbean, Latin American, and indigenous Garifuna cuisine. Along with tasty dishes like stewed chicken and fried fish, they offer a full bar and a banquet hall for special events.
La Bruquena
A beloved neighborhood institution for over 65 years, La Bruquena is a family-owned restaurant on W Armitage Avenue that specializes in Puerto Rican cuisine. Their extensive menu features classic dishes like mofongo and arroz con gandules, as well as sandwiches and salads.
Casa Yari
Casa Yari is a Latin fusion restaurant located on W Fullerton Avenue that brings together flavors from the Caribbean and Central America. Their menu includes dishes like ropa vieja and ceviche, as well as unique creations like their Cuban egg rolls.
Full list of Caribbean Restaurants
What people say
Online reviews and comments have become a powerful tool for diners looking to explore new culinary experiences in their city. In Chicago, Caribbean cuisine has become increasingly popular, with many restaurants offering a taste of the islands. But how do you know which ones are worth trying?
Chicago is a great place for Caribbean cuisine. The city's diverse population means there are many different types of Caribbean restaurants available, from Jamaican jerk chicken to Trinidadian doubles. Many of these restaurants have received high praise from locals and tourists alike.
One highly recommended Caribbean restaurant is Irie Jerk Bar & Grill. Located in the West Loop neighborhood, this restaurant offers a variety of Caribbean dishes at affordable prices. Diners rave about the flavorful jerk chicken and the plantain chips.
Another must-visit spot is Garifuna Flava, which serves authentic Belizean and Caribbean dishes. This restaurant has been featured in several local publications and has received glowing reviews for its delicious food and friendly service.
For those looking for a more upscale dining experience, Tropicana Cuban Restaurant is an excellent choice. This restaurant has been a staple in Chicago's Cuban community since 1991 and offers traditional Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and lechon asado.
When it comes to prices, Caribbean restaurants in Chicago vary greatly. Some are very budget-friendly, while others can be quite expensive. However, most offer generous portion sizes and great value for money.
While none of the Caribbean restaurants in Chicago currently hold Michelin stars, that doesn't mean they're not worth a visit. In fact, some of the city's best dining experiences can be found at neighborhood spots that haven't yet been discovered by critics.
So whether you're a local or a tourist, Chicago's Caribbean restaurant scene is definitely worth exploring. With so many different options available, there's bound to be something for everyone's taste buds and budget.