So, we love Oak Cliff, which is no surprise. It has a down to earth feel, some great dives, funky neighborhoods and unique characters. It is also transitioning, economically, upward, and gentrification is in full force in certain areas. This is good and bad. The good is there are some entrepreneur types doing some cool things in an area that certainly is more edgy than Uptown, Lakewood, North Dallas and many burbs. The bad is that “gentrification” can mean, for the food scene, that some of the uniqueness leaves, and the safer (for both landlords and visitors who gravitate towards what they are comfortable with) takes its place.
The Island Spot in on Jefferson, just west of Zang. It’s an area that generally isn’t gentrified, and it retains a lot of the old, cool Oak Cliff vibe. The building the Island Spot is in, however, has been refurbished and looks great, with a cool exterior. The interior of the restaurant is a bit generic (as is a lot of new construction), and I wouldn’t be surprised if The Island Spot was created as a concept to see if it works, and then to replicate it elsewhere. Nothing wrong with that, but it may influence the recipes and selection.
Foreign language overheard – none, but reggae was the soundtrack. Very, very loud reggae
Jamaican restaurants in the area – none, but being in Oak Cliff is always a plus
Foreign language signs – none
Jamaicans eating in the restaurant – none
Authentic food – yes. Jerk chicken, curried goat and Ackee and saltfish (cod). All the traditional dishes. All were good, not great, in my opinion. Lightly spiced, perhaps for the masses. My lunch crew gave the restaurant good overall reviews, but I’d like to explore a few more local Jamaican restaurants before declaring it a top choice.
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