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.
During my visit, I practically inhaled a quarter chicken that was fall-off-the-bone tender with that perfect charred exterior. The spice level hits just right – enough heat to make you notice but not enough to overwhelm the other flavors.
Somehow they’ve managed to improve perfection by adding a slightly sweeter note to balance the heat. The owner mentioned they’re now importing certain spices directly from Jamaica for maximum authenticity. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
3. New Menu Items Worth Celebrating
While I’d happily eat their jerk chicken seven days a week, the expanded menu at Island Frydays deserves serious attention! My jaw dropped when I spotted authentic Jamaican breakfast options including ackee and saltfish – a rare find in Ohio.
Another standout is their new curry goat, which simmers for hours until the meat practically melts in your mouth. The curry sauce strikes that perfect balance between rich coconut creaminess and aromatic spices. For vegetarians, they’ve introduced jerk jackfruit tacos that mimic pulled pork so convincingly I had to double-check my order.
Weekend visitors can now enjoy traditional Jamaican soups like mannish water (goat soup) and red pea soup with pig tail – authentic comfort foods previously unavailable in the city.
4. Rum Bar Addition Makes Happy Hour Happier
Whoever decided to add a dedicated rum bar to Island Frydays deserves a medal! This brilliant new feature showcases over 25 varieties of Caribbean rum, from everyday Appleton to rare aged sippers that’ll make rum connoisseurs swoon.
Friday evenings now feature rum flight specials where you can sample three different varieties paired with information cards explaining their origin and flavor profiles. My personal favorite discovery was their house-made sorrel rum punch – a hibiscus-infused delight that’s dangerously smooth.
The bartenders aren’t just pouring drinks; they’re creating experiences, happily explaining the difference between Jamaican and Barbadian rums while mixing up classic cocktails like the perfect Dark and Stormy. Come thirsty and plan to use a rideshare service home!
5. Community Table Brings Cincinnati Together
My favorite innovation at the reborn Island Frydays isn’t on the menu – it’s the massive 20-person “Community Table” where strangers become friends over shared platters of Caribbean goodness. This brilliant addition reflects the Jamaican value of communal dining that owner Leo Morgan wanted to bring to Cincinnati, Ohio.
During Sunday “Likkle Jamaica” events, this table becomes the heart of the restaurant, hosting family-style meals where large platters of food circulate while patrons share stories and laughter. I’ve watched business deals form, dates begin, and unlikely friendships blossom across this magical table.
The community aspect extends beyond dining – Island Frydays now hosts monthly cultural events featuring local Caribbean musicians, dance workshops, and cooking classes that have quickly become some of Cincinnati’s hottest tickets.
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