The Hut Island Vybes Jamaican Cuisine (Ghost Kitchen) — Restaurant in Westwood

THE SERVICE:

This is a Ghost restaurant operating out of a commercial kitchen designed for food preparation. Navigating their online menu to place my order was seamless. However, if seeking to make substitutions, you’ll need to call the restaurant as there is no option to do so online.

Pickup was initially confusing because I didn’t see any signage when I entered the building. I called the restaurant after wondering the back hall for a bit. The employee answering the phone was very polite informing me my order was ready, and she would be at the front desk momentarily.

The atmosphere is industrial and conducive to this style venue hosting several restaurants. I felt comfortable and safe.

THE FOOD:

I ordered the combination platter consisting of Jerk Chicken, macaroni and cheese, rice and peas, cabbage, and a soft drink. I was initially hesitant because Jamaican restaurants are known for their “macaroni pie”- which I’ve historically experienced as profoundly dry and tasteless. However, their picture looked promising.

The Hut Island Vybes, your macaroni and cheese is a culinary redemption! The way I texted every Jamaican in my contacts to apologize for my endless macaroni pie slander they faithfully defended- proclaiming I simply haven’t had it fixed right. Chef, you fixed it right, and it was absolutely delicious. Creamy without being runny, and seasoned perfectly. The cheese selection is bold and beautiful. Without a doubt, the best Mac and cheese I’ve had from a Jamaican restaurant in the States.

The jerk chicken was seasoned to the bone, and cooked to my liking as I enjoy a bit of scorch on my jerk. The Jerk sauce is traditional in its flavor profile, and packs a punch. If you cannot tolerate spice, this sauce will light your mouth on fire and clear the sinuses.

The rice and peas was fluffy and yummy. I enjoyed the back notes of coconut and herbs. The steamed cabbage was seasoned and cooked to my preference- tender with texture.

THE VALUE:

Delectable food at an affordable price prepared with love. I could taste the passion and island pride.

THE OPPORTUNITY:

As I waited for my order, I noticed a sign toppled over on top of a desk. This was the sign for the restaurant with an affixed bell for customer service. I recommend, if landlord permits, larger signage that’s at eye level for better visibility. Replace that rinky-dink plastic display case with something more sturdy. Additionally, amend your pickup instructions customers receive in their confirmation e-mail. This should advise what customer’s should do when entering the building to retrieve their order.

Lastly, it would be nice to have the option to add a side sauce/gravy when ordering to put...

I was in Dedham with my husband and we love Jamaican food but have been struggling to find a good place in the area. We ordered the Jerk Chicken, a Beef Patty, and Mac & Cheese. The chicken was very flavorful, juicy, and nice and meaty. The beef patty was flaky and well-seasoned, and the mac & cheese was also delicious and actually had flavor (unlike the bland mac & cheese that we often find as sides). We were also very impressed with the sides that come with the chicken. The cabbage was the perfect silky but not mushy texture and nice and buttery. My husband who doesn't like cabbage even loved it (to my disappointment. I wanted his, haha). The rice & peas are also seasoned well, perfectly balanced to be neither boring nor overpowering. With traffic, it was a 30 minute drive but I wouldn't hesitate to go back. We brought insulated bags and they stayed warm and delicious, so I recommend this restaurant even for those who aren't in the area who want amazing food and...

This place has the BEST JAMAICAN FOOD that I had in my life💯... It's better than Flames' hands down because of the consistency every time I order from here, The flavor is the same texture the same... The last time I went to Flames the Oxtail was hard as rubber. BUT at The Hut Island Vybes... Their Oxtail melts off the bone... The Brown Stew chicken has the best sauce I ever tasted 💯... The Curry Chicken Straight Fire so delicious you're gonna wanna buy 2 orders.... The Fried chicken 🍗 is off the chain... they cut it up into pieces and that crispy chrunch when you bite into.... Amazing... I never and I mean never give reviews but I had to for this place.... So if you want Amazingly good traditional authentic Jamaican food, this is the place I promise you... I drive 40 mins to pick up my food... But I won't be doing that anymore because the owner told me today they deliver through DoorDash, so I'm going save the gas money and order more Jamaican...