I heard the music emanating from Bahama Breeze Grille from the street and it reminded me of home. Would the food inside do the same? The temptation was too great so my daughter and I stepped in, almost dancing to the rhythm of the reggae music and hungering with anticipation.
We were welcomed into a colorful, cozy and relaxing atmosphere that wrapped us like a warm blanket; the aroma of the food driving our taste buds nuts. It was late in the afternoon so we got there when it was Happy Hour.
Citrus Shrimp Cocktail
When I first saw this I asked if this was a shrimp cocktail or a ceviche. A pretty dish garnished with avocado, tomatoes and gigantic tostones which are slices of plantains fried for one to two minutes on each side until they are golden in color, and removed and patted for excess oil. Nice flavor and combination of textures, the avocado adding a creamy note.
Coconut Shrimp
Crispy-crispy shrimp coated in a golden envelope of coconut flakes. The taste was comforting and delicious. The Citrus-mustard Sauce an appealing compliment; the pineapple garnish, a sweet enhancement.
Jamaican Chicken Wings
Marinated in jerk seasoning and baked until golden-brown and crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside. The wings were pleasant and satisfying but definitely a very mild version of authentic jerk chicken from Jamaica. The sauce had the taste but not the heat so I was left hungry for the fire I was supposed to feel on my tongue.
Mojo- Marinated Pulled Pork
Also known simply as pork & plantains. This was a messy looking dish: shredded pork, fried plantains, bathed in a black bean and corn salsa. Interesting looking but not pretty…but when I picked up my fork and took a taste; what a surprising delight this was! The best dish of the evening for sure. The eclectic mix of ingredients had an ineffable Caribbean feel and the sweet and smoky guava BBQ sauce drizzled on top and served on the side was just a gorgeous gift to our palate.
I have to confess that I have been at Bahama Breeze before, back in 2007, and never went back since then. Well, I have been cheating myself as the food now is simple, delicious and modern without being over-the-top.
They have a new small plates and snacks menu and offer “skinny” items for those of us watching our waistlines. With 28 locations in the United States, Bahama Breeze is the restaurant that brings you the feeling of the Caribbean.
Food, drink, live music, awesome service. What else can you want? Run to Bahama Breeze for Happy Hour, 4pm to 6pm Monday thru Friday, after a long and stressful day: you will leave happy and smiling and with the tropical music playing gently in your head and the Caribbean flavors lingering on your tongue.
Feed your Island Spirit at Bahama Breeze!
Bahama Breeze Island Grille
By Contributor Writer Brenda Benoit
