New Jamaican Restaurant Opens on Algoma

Story by Nancy Saunders, Photo by Adrian Lysenko

Island Spice Jerk House opened last month at 71 South Algoma Street. This new restaurant’s interior is painted the vibrant green of the Jamaican flag and features décor with an island flavour, including a chart created by the owners and their children that showcases several common Patois sayings. Reggae music, friendly, smiling staff, and the fragrant smells of jerk spices and curry complete the experience. On offer is a variety of Jamaican dishes including roti, curried chicken, goat, oxtail, rice and peas, jerk chicken and pork, beef patties, soup, and a wide selection of Jamaican beverages like Ting and Peanut Punch.

The restaurant’s cook and one of its co-owners are from Jamaica, and were inspired to open Island Spice to offer Thunder Bay a community experience like they experienced there. “Food is such a big piece of Jamaican culture. We offer traditional, authentic dishes,” owner Leann Siddo says. “Jamaicans in town have been coming out of the woodwork.”

Future plans include Friday night domino events and other fun evenings that welcome everyone to experience great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and Caribbean culture. A soft launch brought in rave reviews, with more positive feedback pouring in after the grand opening. Check out Island Spice Jerk House for an experience that is sure to evoke those cheerful island vibes. Island Spice Jerk House is open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner from 11 am to 7 pm.