Written by Rochelle Gapere

My friends took me there for my birthday during my last trip to Jamaica and the food left such an impression that on the weeks leading up to my trip to Jamaica for carnival this past weekend all I could think about was how soon I could get there after leaving the airport and what I would order. To my delight, the food did not disappoint and it was as delicious as I had remembered.

It is so refreshing that I didn’t have to travel thousands of mile to Banglaore to experience this absolutely delicious authentic Indian cuisine, but I could enjoy it at a restaurant 10 minutes from my home in Kingston where I travel to so frequently. Tamarind Indian Cuisine restaurant is the jewel that has left an indelible mark on my taste buds. It is by far the best and most authentic Indian food I have eaten to date.

Tamarind is a small and cozy restaurant with a simple but sophisticated décor. It offers the flavors of Northern India as well as Indo-Chinese food — a fusion of Chinese and Indian cultures. Tamarind boasts chefs who are professionally trained in specialty areas. There are two chefs who specialize in Indian cuisine, one who specializes in Chinese and one who specializes in kabobs. Each chef works on his own specialty, ensuring the consistency of the taste of the food. The authenticity is further enhanced by using only authentic spices straight out of the motherland, no substitute. Meals are prepared the traditional way — in the Tandoor oven.

I would list all the things we ordered that evening, but I would work myself into a frenzy thinking about it again, so I will leave you with some pictures; however, no words or pictures can truly give the food any justice. You have to experience it yourself.

Butter chicken and dal makhani (black lentils) served with roti and nan

Crispy fried baby corn with sweet chili sauce

If you live in Jamaica or if you are traveling to Kingston for business or pleasure, please do your self a favor and stop by Tamarind. I can guarantee you will be pleased!! 

Tamarind is located at Shop #28, Orchid Village, 18 Barbican Road, Kingston, Jamaica.