It doesn’t have Jamaica’s beautiful beaches, but Ocho Rios True Island Cuisine definitely saves us a pricey plane ride to the island. Everton “Brian” Burnett’s carryout-only restaurant offers a from-scratch selection of authentic Jamaican food in an unpretentious South Collinwood spot. And nothing on the chalkboard menu whisks us to the Caribbean quite like the Jamaican native’s oxtail stew ($9.50 medium, $11 large). The dish comes with a generous portion of tender meat, covered in rich brown gravy, a side of rice and beans dashed with a kick of allspice and soft sauteed cabbage. Burnett, who started cooking at the age of 12 while living in Jamaica, says the stew takes a couple hours longer to prepare than other items on the menu, but it’s worth it. Also Try: The curry goat ($8.50 medium, $10 large) is a slightly sweet and spicy alternative to the popular Indian dish. Or try the pepper steak ($8.50 medium, $10 large) with juicy steak and crisp bell peppers prepared stir-fry style. 1007 Ivanhoe Road, Cleveland, 216-249-6246
Cheap Eats: Ocho Rios True Island Cuisine
The South Collinwood spot’s authentic Jamaican food is enough to whisk us away.
