Rob Martinez in Kingston, New York: 1 Spot

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Kingston

Must-try foods in Kingston

• Ackee and Saltfish
  Ackee and SaltfishJamaica's national dish is a breakfast staple in Kingston. The yellow fruit of the ackee is sautéed with salted cod, onions, Scotch bonnet peppers, and tomatoes, resulting in a buttery texture often compared to scrambled eggs. For the most authentic experience, locals pair it with fried dumplings, boiled green bananas, or hardo bread.
• Pan Chicken
  Pan ChickenWhile the parish of Portland is famous for 'pit-style' jerk, Kingston is the undisputed capital of 'pan chicken.' This street-side delicacy involves chicken seasoned with pimento and Scotch bonnet, grilled over coals in converted oil drums. It is traditionally served with slices of 'hardo' bread to soak up the spicy juices.
• Devon House Beef Patty
  Devon House Beef PattyThe Jamaican patty is an iconic handheld pastry, but the versions found at the historic Devon House are considered the gold standard. These flaky, turmeric-tinted crusts are stuffed with savory fillings like curried beef, lobster, or shrimp. Locals often sandwich their patty inside a sweet, doughy coco bread for the ultimate carb-on-carb meal.
• Escovitch Fish
  Escovitch FishA trip to the edge of Kingston leads to Port Royal, where Gloria's Seafood City serves the definitive Escovitch fish. Fresh snapper is fried until crispy and then topped with a bright, spicy, and acidic pickle of onions, carrots, and Scotch bonnet peppers. It is best enjoyed with 'bammy' (cassava flatbread) or 'festival' (sweet fried dough).
• Curried Goat Pasta
  Curried Goat PastaAnother iconic fusion dish trending in 2026, this meal blends the intense, gamy flavors of traditional Jamaican curry goat with Italian-style pasta. Restaurants like Broken Plate and various Liguanea bistros have popularized this 'new classic,' where the meat is slow-cooked until it falls off the bone into a rich, aromatic ragu.
• Ital Stew
  Ital StewRooted in the Rastafarian lifestyle, Ital food is salt-free, plant-based, and 'vital.' Kingston’s Ital spots, such as Kamila's Kitchen, serve hearty stews made with coconut milk, pumpkin, okra, and 'veggie chunks.' This style of cooking is trending as a healthy, farm-to-table alternative in the city's evolving culinary landscape.

Trip guide

• About Kingston
  About KingstonKingston, the capital and largest city of Jamaica, was established in 1692 following an earthquake that destroyed the nearby settlement of Port Royal. Situated on the island's southeastern coast, it is bordered by the world's seventh-largest natural harbor and the Blue Mountains. The city became the commercial capital in 1703 and the political capital of Jamaica in 1872.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Kingston is from December to April, when the weather is driest and temperatures are comfortably warm. While this peak season offers the most sunshine, it also brings higher prices and larger crowds compared to the humid, rainy summer months. Travelers visiting during the off-peak season (June to November) should be mindful of hurricane season and higher afternoon humidity, though they will benefit from significant travel discounts.
• Getting around
  Getting around Kingston

  • International and Domestic Flights Fly directly into Norman Manley International Airport (KIN), located on the Palisadoes strip about 30 minutes from the city center. Domestic flights also connect Kingston to Montego Bay via local carriers for quick.
  • Knutsford Express Bus This premium, air-conditioned coach service is the most reliable way to reach Kingston from other major hubs like Montego Bay or Ocho Rios. It features onboard Wi-Fi, restrooms.
  • Chartered and Route Taxis For local travel, use 'Charter' taxis (private) for door-to-door service or 'Route' taxis (shared) for a cheaper.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Use only official JUTA or JCAL registered taxis and agree on the fare before departure, as many vehicles are unmetered.
  • Always greet shopkeepers and locals with a polite 'good morning' or 'good afternoon' before starting a conversation or making a request.
  • Dress modestly and avoid wearing camouflage clothing, as it is illegal for civilians to wear any camouflaged patterns in Jamaica.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Kingston

  • Kingston Pirates Week: A new cultural heritage festival in Port Royal featuring maritime parades and theatrical performances.
  • Lost In Time Festival: A major two-day immersive reggae experience at Hope Gardens headlined by Protoje and Chronixx.
• Kingston Visitors Guide↗
  Kingston Visitors GuideThe official visitor guide for Kingston, New York, providing information on historic sites, dining, and events in the state's first capital.