Guess who’s back in the Queen City food scene? Island Frydays, our favorite Jamaican spot, has reopened its doors and my taste buds couldn’t be happier! After a brief hiatus that left many of us craving authentic jerk chicken and plantains, this Cincinnati gem has returned with exciting new offerings while keeping all the classics we love. I recently visited to see if the comeback lived up to the hype, and boy, do I have delicious news to share with you.
1. Bigger Space, Same Island Vibes
Walking into the new Island Frydays location felt like taking a mini vacation! Though they’ve moved to a roomier spot, they’ve managed to bring along all that cozy Caribbean atmosphere we’ve missed.
Colorful walls adorned with Jamaican flags and Bob Marley portraits immediately transport you from Cincinnati to Kingston. The expanded dining area means no more awkward elbow-bumping with strangers during the lunch rush.
What impressed me most was how the staff recreated that familiar island welcome despite the bigger digs. Even with twice the seating, the restaurant maintains its intimate feel, with reggae music at just the right volume to chat with friends while feeling the rhythm.
2. The Jerk Chicken That Changed My Life
If heaven had a flavor, it would be Island Frydays’ jerk chicken. Marinated for 24 hours in a secret blend of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and magic (I’m convinced), this signature dish returns with an even more intense flavor profile…