Two focused friends buried in work decided to take a break and embark on a culinary adventure, attempting to satisfy their insatiable appetites. They abandoned their desks and set off on a journey in search of gastronomic delights.
Our destination was the House of Flamez Bar and Grill located at the foot of Jacks Hill in Kingston, Jamaica. The venue—opened during the height of the pandemic—was easy to find.
As we approached the chocolate-hued wooden door, I felt a sense of excitement and intrigue. I wondered what secrets lay behind this mysterious portal. The sweet sounds of retro 90s dancehall mixed with other musical genres wafted out, luring me in.
My friend and I ran into a familiar face as we made our way to the upper deck. From up high, we took in the panoramic view of the quaint level below us and found the perfect seats for the evening. A light haze filled the atmosphere as there were no smoking restrictions.
Our server approached us quickly with a warm smile. We looked through the menus and chose our meals. I indulged in the delicious chicken quesadillas with a succulent shrimp salad and a glass of bold 19 Crimes wine. My friend opted for the crispy tostones (fried green plantains) and saltfish, a juicy chicken salad and a refreshing Ting infused with a hint of white rum. Our server brought our plates in about 30 minutes and the food arrived hot.
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The chicken quesadillas were delightful — filled with seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro. The saltfish was bursting with herbs, spices, and vegetables that blended perfectly. The crispy shrimp on a bed of garden salad with a sweet sauce tantalized my taste buds, all while providing a healthy addition to the meal. I didn’t taste my friend’s meal, but apparently it was equally enjoyable.
For those with a sweet tooth, the only dessert option available is ice cream. My friend succumbed to the temptation of a scoop garnished with melted chocolate and a cherry on top, and I had a taste of it.
The bill came to US$29.00 for me and US$22.00 for my friend, which was well worth it.
Amid the entertainment, we noticed a group of four men playing dominoes down below. The rustic setting is perfect for those seeking a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere with good friends. My friend summed it up perfectly: “It has a vibe.”
House of Flamez owner, Al Pilliner, is highly respected in the community. He even allows taxi drivers to park their vehicles on his property after hours, rather than parking on the sides of the street, to avoid hassle from the police. He provides young people from the nearby depressed Grants Pen area with jobs and the opportunity to gain valuable work experience. Friendly Al often makes time to engage with his customers.
Overall, this culinary journey was a delight to the senses and a great experience. From the delectable dishes to the impeccable service, every aspect of this dining experience met, and in some instances, exceeded our expectations. As a foodie, I highly recommend House of Flamez to anyone seeking a truly Caribbean culinary adventure.
House of Flamez Bar and Grill
1C Jacks Hill Road, Kingston 8
Jamaican, International | Lunch, Dinner, Drinks
Opening Hours: Mon – Fri 11:00 AM – 08:30 PM · Sat 11:00 AM – 07:30 PM · Sun 12:00 PM – 05:30 PM
