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The Jamaican Dutchy, Fifty-First and Seventh Avenue in the Theatre District

Even if you have never been to Jamaica, a stop by the Jamaican Dutchy encourages images and aromas of this island neighbor to the south. Established loudly and proudly in the Manhattan theatre district, the gleaming truck, satellite dish, plasma screen TV, fluttering Jamaican flags, and beaming smiles quickly assure you have arrived at a destination, not just a food cart. As Oneil Reid, chef and owner of this eye-popper says, "This is the straight-up Jamaican thing. . ."

Charred, succulent and spicy-hot jerk chicken, fried plantains, and perfectly cooked peas and rice are expected lunchtime treats. The chicken curry is flavorful and mildly hot. The oxtails are delicious. If you can't find a menu, check out the daily specials, or look around and order what the regulars are getting. This is how we discovered the chicken pot pie that is an occasional daily special not to  be missed when available.

The simmering dutchys (large heavy cooking pots) are the stars.  By seven in the morning, hot Jamaican porridge is ready to warm early customers. This is traditional Jamaican porridge with ingredients that change every day. One day, it is banana oatmeal; another, hominy corn; another, peanut. Each becomes smooth, creamy and delicious as it is simmered slowly and absolves the Jamaican flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.

Soup simmers in another dutchy. Chicken foot soup, goats' head soup, bean soup, fish soup - don't get caught on the names, the soup is always delicious, and improves as it simmers throughout the day.

Service is quick, not always as fast as New Yorkers like, but you will find  your order has been nicely packed and is appetizing when you are ready to eat your lunch.

The Jamaican Dutchy sells generous portions of their delicious food at reasonable prices. 

Eating from the Jamaican Dutchy is satisfying and there are always new dishes to try. Favorite dishes, like the jerk chicken, are perfect to pick up and serve at your next Jamaican party.

Learn more about this author, Joan Mccord.
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