The Jerk Center Tarpon Springs
This month’s Restaurant of The Month is The Jerk Center in Tarpon Springs, Fl! This Caribbean flare restaurant comes to us by way of a Jamaican family originally from Salt Springs Jamaica which is near Montego Bay. The father and Chef Cliff spends his time ensuring the freshness and quality of each dish they provide. The Head Baker, Pauline a.k.a Mom, is responsible for most of the delicious desserts and baked goods. Cliff and Pauline’s son, Marvin is normally the friendly and genuine person that greets and waits on you.
Chef Cliff and his family have been serving heaven on a plate for just over 16 years. Never losing sight of their origins, the food served at The Jerk Center is as genuine and authentic as it gets. From spicy and flavorful Jerk Pork Shoulder to soft and delicate Plantains. For our lunch, one of our orders was the Jerk Pork Shoulder which was served with “rice and peas” and steamed cabbage. If you’re unfamiliar with the culture, “peas” are actually beans. Also served with the Jerk Pork was a house-made jerk style gravy. Upon request you can pair your meal with authentic, bottled in Jamaica, hot sauces. Not to mention how well everything pairs with an authentic Red Stripe beer.
One of Bill’s favorites is the Chicken Curry served with the same sides as the Jerk Pork Shoulder. This style of food is best eaten with a little bit of everything in each bite. The spicy and tenderness from your choice of protein mixed with the soft flavorful “rice and peas” and then, as if that’s not enough, the steamed cabbage adds just one more layer to the flavor party. We also ordered some of their Jerk Chicken Wings. Which, as self-proclaimed chicken wing connoisseurs, were some of the best chicken wings we’ve ever had. The meat literally falls off the bone!
When Covid-19 wasn’t in the picture, The Jerk Center’s most happenin’ times would be during one of their frequent weekend evening parties. With a DJ and room to dance, people from all over come to The Jerk Center to enjoy great food and connect with new people they’ve never met. The Jerk Center family says they’re hoping they’ll be able to get back to those events soon.
In short, this place is a must try! They’re open Monday to Thursday 11am-9pm and Friday and Saturday 11am-10pm. Make sure to tell them Bill sent you when you go!
