Rosemary Parkinson, Contributor
The breakfast room at Jamaica Inn, in Ocho Rios, ccommands a breathtaking view of the sea, cruise ship and all. They also serve a delicious omelette. - PHOTOS BY ROSEMARY PARKINSON
Jamaica Inn
Ocho Rios, St. Ann
Phone: (876) 974-2514
Dinner: US$65 (J$4,4225)
Breakfast: Up to US$25 (J$1,625)
Jazz with Ms. Henry for non-diners US$25 (J$1,625) at the door
Reservations are a must.
JAMAICA IS one of the most intriguing islands in the Caribbean. For the last five days I have not only had the pleasure of working with one of this country's leading photographers, Ms. Cookie Kinkead, but have done a tour (that continues) through St. Thomas, Portland, St. Mary, St. Ann's and Trelawny that we have both agreed has been nothing less than totally awesome.
Around every corner there's always a little nook and cranny that, on previous trips I have missed. I now definitely know how those intrepid adventurers feel when they stumble on some new 'discovery' on their travels, for we are certainly
experiencing them. By the way, has anyone noticed how our seas are glowing at the moment, those different hues of blue just popping right out at you?
I really must thank every one of you who has touched our hearts as we have made our way through villages, homes, restaurants and hotels. Jamaica's hospitality has been at its best. Two improvements worth mentioning that would augur well for the future of the tourist industry - educate some of the people (and their children) who ask "fi a money" for every little thing. It is not conducive to a good visitor/local relationship. And, someone in power should speak strongly to those who insist on decimating the plant life of Fern Gully by picking every available and bit of green adorned with flowers to make themselves into walking arrangements just for money. If not, Fern Gully will have to drop the 'fern' and be known simply as gully - and what then? No tours - that is what.
JAMAICA INN
A touch of class tucked away on a quiet serene beach lapped by the crystal clear waters of our beautiful Caribbean Sea is a heaven and a haven by the name of Jamaica Inn. Opened in 1950, built by an American newspaper publisher and purchased eight years later by Matthew Archibald and Charlie Morrow, it has been in the capable hands of the latter's sons, Peter and Eric. Jamaican Mary Phillips, general manager, and her amazing, efficient and friendly team have taken this property to new heights. It is a friendly, service-oriented boutique hotel with décor that brings back memories of the interiors of Great Houses but with that touch of modern in its clean and pure colours. Rooms that overlook sand or sea are a delight to enter, their open galleries with plush couches and eating areas make you feel you have come home to your own private beach house. With gardens that are plush with every imaginable exotic flowering plant, Caribbean, Jamaica (of course), Jamaica Inn is a naturalist's delight. But I want to talk food.
THE CUISINE
Dinners are set under the stars with the hotel's band - The Inner Group - playing 'oldies' at just the right volume so one can actually enjoy chatting with those at your table. At the same time (if you're into getting close and loving) there's room for a quick dance during dinner.
Nicole Henry returns to Jamaica Inn today, Thursday, also Friday March 31 and Saturday April 1. Ms. Henry's repertoire will certainly add to that certain nostalgia of days gone by
attributed to Jamaica Inn.
The candles on the tables, the twinkling tars in the skies, the cool night air, the music, added to good company and great food make dining here a wonderful experience every night. Chef Kai has taken the cuisine at Jamaica Inn to another level incorporating local produce into gourmet dishes and ensuring impeccable service from his waiters at all times.
I had a divine Black Sea Bass on
my first night followed by a fresh-from-
the-sea Swordfish on the other. My
diet having come to a crashing halt
since embarking on this trip allowed me
to delve into desserts like Chocolate Mousse and Apple Brulee. Perfection
personified. But what I want to really
talk about is breakfast.
BREAKFAST IS A MUST HERE
I am not an early breakfast person but Jamaica Inn's breakfast room draws me in by 7:30 a.m. and, once seated, the feasting begins. The gorgeous view, the calm waters with the occasional fishing boat passing by at early morning, fresh sea breeze just seems to get to me and, when I gaze at the exciting varieties on the menu, I am hooked with a heavy sinker!
Every day of the week there is a
speciality traditional Jamaican breakfast such as Spicy Escoveitch Fish, Cabbage and Corned Beef, Vegetarian Rasta Ackee with Banana, Golden Cassava Bammy and Steamed Root Vegetables or Pickled Mackerel Rundown. De real 'tings let me tell you. The Continental offerings are sweet and simple. The Kiyara Ocean Spa Breakfast filled with healthy combinations that include fruits, Granola with low fat milk, Egg White Omelette, Smoked Salmon or Blue Marlin, low fat cheese and bran muffins or whole wheat toast are a definite
must for those looking at their trim
bodies with respect.
Every morning, I went for The Inn's Sunny Morning Breakfast with freshly squeezed orange juice, a basket of freshly baked breakfast pastries that were not only varied but really lovely, especially when smothered in pure butter and
tantalising marmalades. Skipping the healthy carved Jamaican fruits every morning, I embarked on a free range chicken egg binge. First day was fluffy scrambled eggs with chopped herbs, onions and tomatoes and the second
day, I was brought a delicious Western Omelette with all manner of goodies within, smothered with cheese of course!
'Ooo la la' the French would say as
I waddled daily out this area totally
satisfied and ready for my day. I could
happily live on this property believe you me. Refined living in the best sense.
'Learning is the only wealth tyrants cannot despoil' - Second Treasury of Kahlil Gibran
