Island Taste Caribbean Grill Introduce
For California diners seeking an escape to the islands without leaving the Bay Area, **Island Taste Caribbean Grill** in San Jose offers a vibrant and authentic culinary journey. Located conveniently in the downtown area, this restaurant specializes in a delicious fusion of Caribbean, specifically Jamaican and Haitian, cuisine. Far more than just a place to grab a meal, Island Taste provides a cultural connection through its food, music, and atmosphere, which are infused with island vibes and genuine hospitality. The restaurant is celebrated for bringing traditional island staples—often hard to find in the region—to the San Jose community, putting a fresh, flavorful spin on classic dishes.
As a proud Black-owned and women-owned business, the restaurant is built on a foundation of passion and heritage, with every dish telling a story. This commitment to authenticity and quality has earned the restaurant a strong reputation, highlighted by rave customer reviews that praise the rich, genuine flavors and the generous portion sizes. Whether you are craving the slow-cooked tenderness of Oxtail, the signature spice of Jerk Chicken, or a savory vegetarian option like Rasta Pasta, Island Taste Caribbean Grill serves up comfort food that truly satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
The casual yet trendy atmosphere makes it an inviting spot for a variety of occasions—popular for lunch, dinner, and even solo dining. It serves as a vital hub for authentic Caribbean flavors, bridging the culinary gap in the San Jose dining landscape with its unique and highly-rated offerings.
Island Taste Caribbean Grill boasts a prime location in the heart of San Jose, California, making it easily accessible for residents, professionals, and students. You can find this culinary hotspot at **225 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA**. The central downtown location, often noted as being near City Hall, ensures high visibility and convenience for those in the metropolitan area.
The restaurant is committed to ensuring a comfortable experience for all patrons, featuring robust accessibility amenities:
- Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Provides easy access for all guests.
- Wheelchair Accessible Restroom: Ensures comfort and convenience during your visit.
- Wheelchair Accessible Seating: Offers suitable dining arrangements in the restaurant area.
Parking options in this bustling downtown location cater to different needs: **Free street parking** is available, though it may require searching, and **paid street parking** is also an option nearby. This flexibility allows patrons to choose the most convenient method for their visit, whether they are stopping in for a quick bite or settling in for a full dinner.
The service model at Island Taste Caribbean Grill is designed to be versatile and accommodating, fitting seamlessly into the fast-paced or relaxed schedules of California life. The services include traditional dining alongside modern convenience options:
- Dine-in Service: Enjoy your meal in the casual, trendy atmosphere of the restaurant, complete with comfortable seating and access to the restroom amenity.
- Takeout: Convenient service for customers who wish to pick up their favorite dishes and enjoy them at home or at work.
- Delivery: Offering delivery allows the restaurant's authentic flavors to be enjoyed directly at a customer's location throughout the San Jose area.
- Catering: Providing full-service catering for groups and events, allowing the rich flavors of the Caribbean to be the centerpiece of any gathering.
- Dining Options: The restaurant offers a variety of experiences, specifically catering to **Lunch**, **Dinner**, and **Dessert** service times.
- Payment Flexibility: Accepts modern payment methods, including **Credit cards**, **Debit cards**, and **NFC mobile payments**, ensuring a smooth and quick transaction process.
Island Taste Caribbean Grill stands out in the San Jose dining scene due to a compelling blend of cultural authenticity, quality food, and dedicated service:
- Authentic Jamaican and Haitian Cuisine: Specializing in the distinct and flavorful dishes from both Jamaica (e.g., Jerk Chicken, Oxtail) and Haiti (e.g., Tasso/Fried Goat, Griot/Fried Pork), providing a unique blend of island flavors.
- Black-Owned and Women-Owned: Operating as a Black-owned and women-owned business, it brings a rich, personal heritage and passion to the culinary experience, which is often reflected in the warmth and authenticity of the service.
- Highly-Rated Comfort Food: Menu items like the "Jamrock" Oxtail and the "Bolt" Jerk Chicken are customer favorites, consistently praised for their phenomenal flavor, authenticity, and generous portions.
- Strong Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Catering to diverse California diets with excellent options such as "Smile Jamaica" (Coconut Curry Garbanzo Beans), "Rasta Pasta" (Vegan), and Jerk Tofu, moving beyond traditional meat-centric Caribbean menus.
- Vibrant and Inviting Atmosphere: Described as both **Casual** and **Trendy**, the environment, complete with island-inspired artwork and music, enhances the dining experience, making it a comfortable spot for **Groups** and **Family-friendly** dining.
- Unique Beverage Menu: Offering authentic Caribbean drinks like **Jamaican Sorrel (Hibiscus And Ginger)**, which provides a refreshing, traditional accompaniment to the spicy and savory mains.
- Popular for All Meals: Equally popular for **Lunch**, **Dinner**, and for **Solo dining**, demonstrating its versatility and ability to fit into different dining needs throughout the day.
To experience the authentic tastes of the Caribbean or to make an inquiry, local California users can reach Island Taste Caribbean Grill using the following information:
Address: 225 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA
Phone: (669) 899-1097
Mobile Phone: +1 669-899-1097
Choosing Island Taste Caribbean Grill is choosing a dining experience that offers depth, culture, and phenomenal flavor, making it one of the most compelling restaurant options in downtown San Jose. It is worth choosing for several crucial reasons that resonate with the values of the California community:
Firstly, the **authenticity of the cuisine**—a skillful blend of Jamaican and Haitian recipes—is unmatched in the area, offering dishes that are both traditional and innovative. Customers consistently highlight the "phenomenal" taste and the "legit and authentic" nature of the food, especially main courses like Oxtail and Curry Goat, and even the creative Jerk Tofu.
Secondly, the restaurant's identity as a **Black-owned and women-owned business** adds a layer of community support and cultural richness, providing a welcoming and warm environment that is often praised by guests. This is more than just good food; it’s an opportunity to connect with a genuine cultural expression right in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Lastly, the **incredible value and variety** is a major draw. With generous portion sizes that satisfy deep cravings, diverse offerings for all dietary needs—including excellent vegetarian options—and a casual setting that is good for kids, groups, or even just a solo quick bite, Island Taste Caribbean Grill offers a comprehensive and highly satisfying dining solution. For any California resident looking for true island flavor and a heartwarming meal, this establishment is a must-try destination.
Island Taste Caribbean Grill Food & drink
Beverages
- Bottled Water $2.00
- Bottled Caribbean Drinks $3.75
- Jamaican Sorrel (Hibiscus And Ginger) $5.00
Sorrel combines the flavor of hibiscus, ginger, and spices to create a tasty and refreshing beverage.
Napkins & Utensils
- Napkins & Utensils $0.00
Mains
- Smile Jamaica (Coconut Curry Garbanzo Beans) $16.00
Curry coconut garbanzo beans served with basmati rice and garlic infused callaloo [Gluten Free + Vegan]
- What A Gwaan (Brown Stew Chicken) $20.00
Brown stew chicken marinated and slow cooked in traditional Jamaican seasoning and spices, served with white rice, sweet plantain, and your choice of steamed veggies OR our pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad
- Kingston (Curry Goat) $22.00
Curry goat served with your choice of white rice or rice and peas along with fried sweet plantains and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad [Gluten Free]
- Montego Bay (Curry Shrimp) $22.00
Curry shrimp served with white rice or rice and peas, sweet plantain, and your choice of steamed veggies OR our pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad
- Bolt (Jerk Chicken) $20.00
Pimento smoked marinated jerk chicken served with rice and peas, sweet plantains, and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad [Spicy]
- Cool Runnings (Curry Chicken) $20.00
Curry chicken served with white rice or rice and peas along with fried sweet plantains and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad [Gluten Free]
- 1804 (Tasso/ Fried Goat) $23.00
Fried goat marinated in authentic Haitian herbs and spices, served with rice and peas, fried green plantains, and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad [Gluten Free]
- Bang Bang (Griot/ Fried Pork) $23.00
Fried pork marinated in authentic Haitian herbs and spices, served with white rice and black beans, fried green plantains, and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad [Gluten Free]
- Rasta Pasta (Vegan) $17.00
Penne pasta cooked in coconut cream sauce with a blend of bell peppers, garlic and cherry tomatoes
- Rasta Pasta $18.00
Penne pasta cooked in coconut cream sauce with a blend of bell peppers
- Skankin Sweet (Fried Fish) $35.00
Escovitch whole red snapper fried and served with Jamaican festival bread and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad
- Jamrock (Oxtail) $27.00
Oxtail and butter beans slow cooked in traditional Jamaican seasoning and spices served with rice and peas and our in-house pickled cucumber, carrot, and red onion salad
Side Of Meat
- Fried Pork ONLY $14.00
- Curry Goat ONLY $14.00
- Oxtail ONLY $18.00
- Jerk Chicken ONLY $13.00
- Fried Chicken ONLY $13.00
- Fried Goat ONLY $14.00
Starters
- Jerk Chicken Wings (6) $13.00
Six wings marinated in jerk seasoning and Jamaican herbs and spices [Spicy]
- Island Tacos (Mix - Oxtail And Chicken) $12.00
Two (2) tacos served with purple cabbage slaw and sweet plantain bites in a flour tortilla
- Beef Patty $7.00
Minced beef marinated in Jamaican herbs and spices in a savory, flaky, pastry crust
- Curry Chicken Patty $7.00
Curry chicken marinated in Jamaican herbs and spices in a savory, flaky, pastry crust
- Veggie Patty $7.00
Mixed veggies marinated in Jamaican herbs and spices in a savory, flaky, pastry crust
- Island Tacos (Oxtail) $14.00
Two (2) tacos served with purple cabbage slaw, sweet plantain bites, and island aioli in a flour tortilla
- Island Tacos (Chicken) $11.00
Two (2) tacos served with shredded purple cabbage slaw and sweet plantain bites in a flour tortilla
Sides
- White Rice & Black Beans $8.00
White rice served with our Haitian style black beans [Gluten Free + Vegan]
- Sweet Plantains $8.00
Sweet, ripe plantains, lightly fried in oil [Gluten Free + Vegan]
- Jamaican Festival Bread (2) $5.00
Slightly sweet cornmeal fritters that are perfect for mopping up jerk sauce or oxtail gravy.
- Mac & Cheese $8.00
Baked macaroni seasoned with Caribbean herbs and spices, and cheese [Vegetarian]
- Rice And Peas $8.00
Jasmine rice and red kidney beans cooked in coconut milk with Caribbean herbs and spices [Gluten Free + Vegan]
Sauce
- Pineapple Hot Sauce $9.50
- Oxtail Gravy $0.50
- Sweet Sauce $0.50
- Pikliz $0.50
Island Taste Caribbean Grill Details
From the business
- Identifies as Black-owned
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Assistive hearing loop
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Dessert
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Island Taste Caribbean Grill Photos










Island Taste Caribbean Grill Location
Island Taste Caribbean Grill
225 E Santa Clara St, San Jose, CA 95112, USA
Island Taste Caribbean Grill Reviews
rasta pastahaitianjerk tofufried goatfried porkjerk chicken tacosjerk chicken wingsentreesteamed veggiesjamaican patty
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1The hostess was pleasant and explained the menu choices well. They offer complimentary lemon water while waiting. My sister had the lemonade and I enjoyed the hibiscus drink. The plantains and patties were a hit! I was disappointed in the plating of my food. The salad with vinaigrette mixed with the Rasta pasta, so I didn’t get to enjoy the different flavors on my plate much, except the Jerk Tofu which was phenomenal. My sister had the rice and it was cooked well, but her salad was also added with next to the rice so you got more of a vinegar taste. My suggestion is to serve the salad separately, but I would try it again if in the area.
June 18 · Sheryll HamiltonYummy eats! Boyfriend took me here after a long day at work and both our dishes were so delicious. He ordered jerk chicken wings and I got the coconut chickpea curry and curry chicken patties ooowweeee! Satisfied my cravings and the portions are huge. Definitely our new spot 😊
July 08 · joslynne leoneBest Caribbean spot in the area. Great atmosphere, fun staff, amazing food. LOVE the fact that they sell Haitian food…hard to find and so delicious. 🤤 Rasta Pasta is so so good too. Marc is a great guy who runs a great spot. San Jose is lucky to have Island Taste!!
August 15 · Andrea GarzaA hidden gem in downtown San Jose! Great food with the right amount of spice.Wife and I had the Oxtail Tacos and a curry shrimp dish. Amazing dishes with flavors not found anywhere else. My daughter has a limited spice palate, though their recommendation of the Rice & Peas and Jamaican Patty was perfect.
October 12 · Jason FaasOkay so I’m from NY and if you know NY you are never greeted you are asked weh yuh want. So let me tell you about this restaurant. The door was open and immediately I was greeted by everyone the cashier and the other employee who was in the front. Everyone was friendly and the aromas were mouth watering. I ordered two entrees because I wanted to try more than one thing. The wait wasn’t that long I occupied myself on my phone and when the cashier handed me my food I was like God Damn. It was soooo heavy! When I opened the tray I saw how large the portion was and it was perfect. The jerk chicken was seasoned to perfection. The plaintain and cabbage were tasty and the rice complimented the jerk chicken. The chicken was falling off the bone it was so juicy. I also ordered the Vegan Rasta Pasta with Jerk Tofu and I took one bite and was blown away. I also ordered a curry chicken patty was stuffed with flavor. I’d highly recommend going here.
May 30 · Kori Dobbs
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