Among the wonderful Afro-Caribbean addresses in Paris, one island was still missing from the lineup: Jamaica. Its sun-kissed sandy beaches, lush nature, and rebellious spirit had yet to touch Parisian soil… until the unexpected arrival of Jamrock, a new gem in the 11th, which will make you (re)discover Jamaican culture with delicious spicy dishes and well-shaken cocktails.
Heading to Jamaica
Freshly opened on Rue de Candie, Jamrock is a true ode to Jamaican culture. Behind this address, you'll find Kelly Schaal, a Franco-Jamaican who embodies a contagious zest for life. Alongside her trusted friend and partner Vincent Durupt, as well as chef Camille Le Breton de la Perrière – also Franco-Jamaican – she aims to introduce Parisians to the land of her maternal roots and its flavors.
who cradled his childhood.
© Rudy Guenaire
And for us, it's a total success! From the entrance, the decor designed by Rudy Guenaire sets the tone and plunges us into a little beachside cabin. With suspended lights and tables made from giant bamboo trunks, a fake rock serving as a bar topped with Caribbean rum bottles, and the turquoise waters as a backdrop... In short, it’s vibrant and exotic, perfect for an instant getaway!
The Kings of Jerk Chicken
On the plate, Jamrock takes us on a delightful tour of the island's classic dishes, with a must-try stop at the Jerk Chicken, a legendary dish from Jamaica. The chicken is marinated with over a dozen spices (for at least 24 hours), slow-cooked, and then finished on the charcoal grill for a crispy, tender texture with a wonderful smoky flavor, served with delicious sides.
of a rice and peas, as tradition dictates. Another classic on the menu is the signature vegetable curry that pays homage to Rastafarian culture and 100% veggie Ital food, with recipes that evolve with the seasons.
© Harry Boeki
But Jamaican cuisine is above all a shared cuisine that’s all about generosity, reflecting the island's philosophy. The menu offers a delightful array of dishes to enjoy with friends, ranging from the must-try Patty (a golden pastry filled with minced meat and melted cheese) to the Coco Bread (a fluffy coconut bread stuffed with shredded beef), plus the fish fritters with sweet and sour sauce and grilled corn topped with shredded coconut and spiced Jerk mayo with hemp oil.
To wash it all down, a lovely cocktail menu completes your meal, featuring plenty of rum galore (which we recommend trying in a Dark’N’Stormy) along with other delightful creations like the Bloody.Mary revisited Jerk spices and Scotch bonnet pepper (Jamaican pepper) and the Buffalo Slider with its delightful dose of Bourbon, pineapple, and coconut. On the non-alcoholic drinks side, homemade lemonades and Sorrel (the island's traditional hibiscus drink) will complete your culinary journey in Jamaica. So, how about a one-way ticket to Kingston, no layovers or jet lag involved?
Address: 16 Rue de Candie, 75011 Paris, France
