SEE’s Foodie Finds Caribbean Jack’s Restaurant and Bar

When the skies are clear, the sun is shining and the hunger pains set in, Caribbean Jack’s Restaurant and Bar in Daytona Beach is the place to be. Named after John “Caribbean Jack” Gilbert, a famous prohibition rumrunner, Caribbean Jack’s offers an excellent choice of rum concoctions, awesome food and a beautiful view of the Halifax River.

On a cloudless Wednesday afternoon, Dan and I sat down to enjoy the ambiance and eats of Caribbean Jack’s. We started off with the Caribbean Crab Dip; a bowl of chunky blue crab and creamy cheese dip surrounded by slices of warm dipping bread. The toast points were soft in the center, yet crunchy at the crust and the dip was cheesy, but didn’t overpower the taste of the blue crab. The whole dish was quite complimentary.

I’m literally drooling as I think back to my main entrée at Caribbean Jack’s. Black beans, chicken and rice all drew me to the Bird of Paradise dinner that features jerked chicken over calypso rice, plated with fresh pineapple and black bean salsa. It was like the Fourth of July in my mouth as I devoured this delicious, yet attractive dish. It was more than enough to fill me up and even take a bit home.

Dan opted for the Mahi-Mahi BLT. The Island jewel mahi-mahi is seasoned and sandwiched with remoulade sauce, bacon, lettuce and tomato. This combined with his side choice of onion rings was more than enough to leave him pleasantly full and pleased with his decision.

There was no question when it came time for dessert. Caribbean Jack’s is one of the few places in town that carries Bananas Foster. I’ve experienced the pleasure in a single bite of this extraordinary dessert. Dan, on the other hand, had no idea about it. So there was no debate. We were having Bananas Foster. A combination of fresh sliced bananas, banana liqueur, rum and sautéed pecans are poured over a flaky pastry and vanilla bean ice cream. Our stomachs pleaded for no more food, but the sensation in our taste buds encouraged us to move forward. Good thing this dish is made for sharing, because neither of us could have solely devoured it. It was the perfect conclusion to our adventure at Caribbean Jack’s.

Not just a restaurant, Caribbean Jack’s plays host to many events, live entertainment, a gift shop and banquet style functions.

If your looking for food as mouth-watering as the view from your table is beautiful, than venture no further than Caribbean Jack’s. I’m still trying to think of an excuse to go back soon, whether I take a friend, my mom or anyone … just so long as I can revisit their spectacular cuisine. Absolutely delicious!

~Amanda Tew

Caribbean Jacks Restaurant and Bar

Open: Everyday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturdays.

Address: 721 Ballough Rd., Daytona Beach, FL 32174

Phone: 386-523-3000

Click here to view Caribbean Jack’s listing