What To Eat, Drink, See & Do In Jamaica, By Haveli Founder Mina Robertson

This insider guide is part of our My Hometown series, where Service95 connects with creatives from around the globe to explore their unique perspectives and stories. In this edition, we chat with Mina Robertson, founder of Jamaican womenswear brand Haveli. Read the full interview here and below, discover her local recommendations for the island she calls home... 

The Best Experiences In Jamaica To Bookmark For Your Visit

1. Eits Café, Irish Town – This charming outpost is an essential stop – a family-run café in the Blue Mountains offering plenty of options for breakfast and dinner.
2. Devon House, Kingston – Step into the home of Jamaica’s first Black millionaire, a beautifully preserved mansion dating from 1881.
3. Bob Marley Museum, Kingston – Book a tour to explore the music legend’s home, with another option to discover his Tuff Gong recording studio, where artists such as Snoop Dogg and Lauryn Hil have also recorded.
4. Go On A Boat Trip – Take a canoe to Lime Cay from Morgan’s Harbour.
5. Bob Marley Beach, St Thomas – One of the most idyllic beaches on the Island.
6. Reggae Falls, St Thomas – A stunning cascade set against the backdrop of a historic 1920s dam and surrounded by lush, unspoiled nature.
7. Frenchman’s Cove, Portland – The most beautiful place on Earth, in my opinion.
8. Visit St Ann – Take a trip to the Spanish Bridge, Blue Hole or Konoko Falls.
9. Rafting on the Rio Grande – Afterwards, eat at Belinda’s on the riverbank. A must.

Where To Eat & Drink In Jamaica

1. Stush In The Bush, St Ann – It’s hard to find the words for this gastronomical experience but it is unlike anything else. Book a spot, just trust me.
2. Try Jamaican-Chinese Food – This is its own genre. My favourites are China Express, Jade Garden and Di Dragon.”
3. The Coppers, Kingston – Try dishes such as the Chianti Braised Lamb Shank and Cedar Plank Salmon Fillet, served with a stunning garden oasis view.
4. Devon House, Kingston – For patties and ice cream.
5. Moby Dick, Kingston – Walking distance from the National Gallery.
6. Pink Apron, Kingston – A foodie’s paradise, offering a unique twist on gourmet dining. Perfect for special occasions.

Where To Find The Best Traditional Jamaican Food

1. Triple Tz, Kingston – For authentic Jamaican food that hits the spot for breakfast, lunch or dinner, this restaurant is the go-to.
2. Sonia’s Homestyle Cooking, Kingston – You have to try this spot, renowned for its exceptional Jamaican cuisine and outstanding service, with multiple Jamaica Observer Food Awards nominations.
3. Miss May’s Hellshire, Kingston – Try the fresh fried fish.
4. Miss T’s, Ocho Rios – A celebration of all things Jamaican, Miss T’s Kitchen is famous for its oxtail stew, curry goat and vibrant atmosphere
5. Ultimate Jerk Centre, Discovery Bay – Claiming to serve the best jerk cuisine in Jamaica, this spot is another must-try for authentic, flavourful dishes.
6. The Pelican Grill, Montego Bay – You must get a jumbo malt milkshake!

Where To Stay In Jamaica

1. Doctor Bird Services – I really recommend a villa; Doctor Bird Services will curate an amazing experience.
2. Skylark, Negril – Blends tropical mid-century design with Jamaica’s vibrant music and culture
3. Tensing Pen, Negril – Enjoy 180-degree clifftop views and unique rooms designed based on Carribean arts and crafts.
4. Jakes Treasure Beach, St Elizabeth – A laidback, colourful spot to unwind in Treasure Beach.
5. Jamaica Inn, St Ann – Lovingly run by the Morrow family since 1958, this inn offers a peaceful retreat.
6. Kanopi House Geejam, Portland – Eco-friendly treehouses with spectacular views of the Blue Lagoon and Jamaica’s lush landscape.
7. Strawberry Hill, St Andrew – Private cottages and stunning views in Jamaica’s Blue Mountains.

Where To Find The Best Music & Art In Jamaica

1. New Wave – Do anything New Wave tells you to do; it’s a hub that curates events and promotes Jamaican creatives.
2. Calabash International Literary Festival, Treasure Beach – An incredible experience. Imagine a weekend of witnessing world-renowned authors such as Salman Rushdie and Zadie Smith discussing their work on the beach.
3. Uptown Mondays, Kingston – The perfect way to kick off your week, with great vibes and the best of Kingston’s street dance scene.
4. 22 Jerk, Kingston – For live jam sessions every Thursday.
5. The National Gallery, Kingston – Showcases Jamaican art from the 1920s to today, with a standout collection of Edna Manley’s sculptures.
6. Olympia Gallery, Kingston – A creative haven featuring stunning exhibitions and a beautiful sculpture garden.
7. Dubwise Café, Kingston – A vibrant blend of vegetarian-friendly meals, reggae music and a relaxed atmosphere.
8. The Art Walk, Downton Kingston – Experience the heart of Downtown Kingston through local art, live performances, handmade crafts and vibrant culture.
9. The Courthouse Gallery, Ocho Rios – Jude Issa’s art takes a playful jab at brand marketing and celebrity culture in Jamaica, mixing bold, graffiti-style works with a humorous look at modern life and local identity.

...& Finally, Where To Spend An Afternoon Shopping In Jamaica

1. Craft Cottage, Kingston
2. MyJamaica, Kingston
3. Kingston Night Market
4. The Collective at Main Street Rose Hall, Montego Bay
5. Tribe Nine Studios, Downtown Kingston
6. Maakit Boutique at Half Moon, Montego Bay