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Welcome to Island Cafe Rock

At Island Cafe Rock, a vibrant Caribbean eatery nestled in Linden, NJ, the spirit of Jamaica comes alive. Our story began with a passion for authentic Jamaican flavors, as embodied by our talented chefs, Maxine and Novlette. Specializing in mouthwatering dishes like jerk chicken, tender oxtail, and flavorful curry, we strive to create a dining experience infused with love and warmth. Our inviting atmosphere, enhanced by friendly service and an outdoor seating area, invites guests to relax and savor each bite. We take pride in offering a diverse menu and exceptional customer service, ensuring every visit feels like a homecoming.

Island Cafe Rock: Reviews & Ratings

A S.
A S.

Was blown away to find an Ox Tail Patties, and it was really good. Also had the Jerk Chicken. I would definately try them again.

Patrice J.
Patrice J.

I was always curious about this restaurant so one day my girlfriends and I went there for lunch. The food was just okay. I felt that the fish we ordered was not fresh, that it was a frozen filet. But the decor/atmosphere was very nice.

Kassina D.
Kassina D.

Delicious Jamaican Eats in Linden! Island Cafe Rock is a must-visit in Linden, NJ! The food here is on point--authentic Jamaican flavors that'll have you coming back for more. Chef Maxine and Chef Novlette are amazing at what they do. The jerk chicken? Perfectly spicy. The oxtail? So tender and flavorful. The sides like rice and peas and plantains were spot on too. You can really tell they put love into every dish. Plus, the staff is super friendly, making you feel right at home. My favorite are the oxtail patties! If you're craving some real Jamaican food, this is the place to be. I'll definitely be back!

Purpose T.
Purpose T.

I am pleased to say that my hunt for delicious Jamaican cuisine worth its weight is finally over! I appreciate Yelp even more for introducing me to this gem of a place. They've been open roughly 6 months, so I do not feel like I've been missing out for too long. It was a sunny Saturday afternoon, and thankfully not a long wait. I ordered the curry chicken w/cabbage and rice & peas. The curry was flavorful and finger-licking good, falling off of the bone; although some of my peas were rock hard but other than that the rice & peas were delicious, too. The cabbage was sooo good!!! I could have used a tad more, but I chocked that up to personal preference - i LOVE cabbage! I guess I was so mesmerized by the inviting aroma that I forgot to take a picture of my food (which usually never happens), but take my word... the container was empty. The menu has plenty to offer and I am looking forward to trying the jerk chicken next time - which is made on the grill (not the oven). I also loved the decor and art on the walls. Great food and the service is what won me over completely. While waiting for my order, I met the cook and chatted with the owner, Maxine, who is extremely personable and polite. I could have talked to her about quality food and quality customer service all day. It's nice to converse with owners of establishments who just 'get it'. The professionalism here is on point. And make no mistake about it, she reads all reviews and takes all feedback into consideration. There's also a very nice outdoor space with seating and live music. I will definitely be back! 5 stars earned and well-deserved!

Desiree F.
Desiree F.

I was in the mood for Jamaican food and wanted to try this new spot. I called in my order of the curry shrimp, and they said it would take 25 minutes. When I arrived, the place was nice. I told the lady my name and the food wasn't ready. It took another 15 minutes. The ladies were super nice that owned the restaurant. After the food came out, I paid and left. When I dug in the food was really good! I enjoyed the curry and the rice. Very good experience.

Imani L.
Imani L.

Let's make this review perfectly quick and easy: Jerk chicken 10000000/10. In the county, you will literally NOT find a restaurant that does jerk chicken on an actual grill. Most use an oven which tastes good but literally is just absolutely not the same. Steam cabbage 10/10. Fresh, crunchy, well seasoned and delicious. Customer service 10/10. I told the owner that I just came from the gym and she perfectly crafted an order of jerk chicken, rice, and plantain with no rice. Most places would try to upcharge me or tell me they can't do a rice substitute. I didn't even have that issue here because she literally recommended it. Overall I will definitely be back. I have to explore the other menu options but so far it's a win!

Perla J.
Perla J.

This place was great. Hands down a very clean space & the sweetest, most informative staff! With my dietary restrictions (Vegan) & this being a carribean cuisine location I was a bit nervous about what I could get. They made it extremely easy for me to decide on what I could eat there. My co workers also got food from here & they loved it! The pricing was fair given the amounts of food that you will receive. You're getting quality AND quantity for your buck! Can't go wrong there! The location was easy to find, and there was parking as well. They made everything from scratch, so it did take about 20 to 25 minutes for everything to be completed. However, upon the reaction of my coworkers, the food was amazing & worth every minute of the wait. My vegan friendly meal was perfect. Not greasy. Not salty. Nor was anything dry! We will definitely be returning for more & spreading the word about this hidden gem! Thank you guys!

Racheal R.
Racheal R.

This is the real deal. Looking for authentic Jamaican food. This is the place! This is a must return to! The have an amazing outdoor patio in the summer and the vibe is mature and fun.

Location

Welcome to the vibrant world of Island Cafe Rock, your go-to destination for an authentic taste of the Caribbean right in the heart of Linden, NJ. This delightful establishment serves up a fusion of Caribbean flavors with a menu that prominently features both succulent chicken and fresh seafood options.

Located at 515 E Elizabeth Ave, Linden, NJ 07036, Island Cafe Rock is more than just a restaurant. It’s a culinary journey where every dish tells a story. As a newcomer in the area, they've quickly established themselves as a must-visit for those seeking a genuine Jamaican experience. The warm atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel right at home, ensuring that each visit is memorable.

  • Signature Dishes: Whether you're craving jerk chicken with its perfect spice level, or oxtail patties that are a crowd favorite, every bite is packed with flavor. The curries—be it shrimp or chicken—are particularly noteworthy for their rich, inviting aromas and hearty textures.
  • Accessibility: Island Cafe Rock prides itself on being accessible, featuring wheelchair-friendly entrances and ample outdoor seating, making it easy for everyone to enjoy their meals.
  • Exceptional Service: Customers rave about the personable interaction with owners such as Chef Maxine, who ensures that their dining experience is both delightful and engaging.

One standout feature of Island Cafe Rock is their approach to food. Many patrons describe the dishes as being infused with love, suggesting a deep respect for the culinary traditions of Jamaica. The rice and peas are a perfect accompaniment to the main dishes, providing a fulfilling combination that’s hard to resist.

Moreover, the restaurant offers a range of amenities including delivery, takeout, and catering options, making it a versatile choice whether you're dining in or enjoying at home. Their happy hour specials and outdoor seating arrangements enhance the dining experience, especially during pleasant weather.

As you explore the menu, consider the curry shrimp or the jerk salmon, both of which have garnered considerable praise for their bold flavors. Patrons have noted that the dishes are truly representative of Jamaican cuisine, reminding them of meals shared with family and friends.

In summary, if you’re looking for a place where you can indulge in authentic Jamaican flavors while enjoying excellent service and a welcoming atmosphere, look no further than Island Cafe Rock. It's not just a meal; it's an experience you won’t forget.

For those ready to embark on this culinary adventure, feel free to contact them at (908) 287-5473 or visit their location for a taste that will leave you yearning for more!