All Hail the Jerk King

The Pitch

Jerk chicken, along with guacamole and fried calamari, are popular, widely-available dishes which disappoint more often than not.  For years I could not find a first-rate purveyor of the former; the smoky, spicy rub/marinade native to Jamaica.  That was, until the celebrated Seasoned Dreams came onto the scene in 2015.

Seeing that the latter did not deliver to my home a year ago, I took a shot in the dark and randomly ordered from Caribbean Food Factory via the now-defunct Foodora service.  I had never heard of the little-known N.D.G. operation at the time, but its jerk was top notch.  Not being one to enthrone a spot from a single, isolated experience, today I revisited this inconspicuous outfit for takeout.

The Food

The Factory's menu covers the basics of Jamaican and West Indian cuisines, from jerk, oxtail and curry goat to saltfish, stew fish and roti.  These can be ordered standalone or in meal format, which includes rice ‘n' peas, plantain, veggies and a fried dumpling/biscuit.  Considering how much food you're getting, these are a steal given their $10-$16 price point.

tagged:  GREAT VALUE MOUTH ON FIRE!

The Verdict

Upon stepping into the Factory's premises to pick up my order, I understood the establishment did catering as well as banquets in its events hall.  More recently, the COVID-19 shutdown forced it to focus on takeout.

One of my most cherished experiences as a food blogger is landing on a well-kept secret, which this exotic N.D.G. gem clearly is.  Now when can I try their oxtail?

tagged:  FAVORITE

5

Price per person:  $14.49