I stopped by Mr. B’s Caribbean Grill on a Friday right when they opened, and I was really impressed. Cornell was running things by himself since his cashier hadn’t shown up yet, and even with a lunch rush hitting, he stayed positive and made sure everyone got great service.
I got the jerk chicken meal and the cornbread, and both were amazing. The jerk chicken was some of the best I’ve had in a long time, full of flavor and cooked perfectly. I hesitated when I saw the cornbread was $8, but I’m glad I tried it. You can see real corn in it, and it was the perfect mix of sweet and soft. I meant to take pictures, but the food didn’t last long enough, it was that good.
Cornell mentioned business has been a little tough lately with the government shutdown since they’re right by the Jefferson Park train stop, but this spot really deserves the support. I heard other people talking about how great the jerk fish, mac & cheese, and curry goat were too. Everything looked and smelled amazing. I’ll...
Read moreTLDR: If you enjoy your first visit, don’t expect the same food, portions, or quality next time.
I’ve been to Mr. B’s five times in the last month. The first visit was immaculate—left a 5-star review. Second time, the salmon was noticeably small but still very tasty. Third time, they called twice to say items were out, then gave me plain salmon (normal size this time, though) with no sauce at all...0 jerk sauce for my jerk salmon. When I called, the staff was dismissive (except for one kind young woman). Fourth visit: less jerk sauce, fewer plantains (from 4 to 2).
Tonight, I hyped it up to my grandma and was embarrassed. We got the driest boneless chicken breast I’ve ever had, it was actually inedible. First time, I got juicy bone-in thighs and drumsticks! If it ain’t broke…
I’ve spent over $200 here chasing that first-time high. I’m chalking this up to growing pains and hope to return and update my review back to 5 stars when things are more consistent. For now, they’ve lost a...
Read moreCaribbean cuisine, and family owned and operated?! It was my first time trying Mr. B’s and it definitely won’t be my last! Not only was he a pleasure to speak with, but his food was an equal pleasure to enjoy. I ordered the jerk chicken, which was served with rice and peas, as well as plantains. Don’t make the mistake I made and not order the cornbread. Everything was cooked to perfection, the meat practically falling off the bones. You can tell Mr. B puts a lot of time, love, and passion into preparing his family’s traditional cuisine. He makes everything from scratch and in house, from the sauce to the cornbread. That said, I will be back to try those oxtails…and the cornbread I should’ve ordered the first time! Thank you again Mr. B! It’s establishments like yours that make Chicago the greatest food scene on earth. Go and...
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