We were driving through Yallahs, St Thomas, looking for somewhere to have lunch. Hot & Spicy caught our eye, and so we stopped and decided to try out offerings.

The establishment offers takeout and also, you can call for larger orders to be prepared. There is a 14-seat dining room for small gatherings or meals can be had on the beach at the back, al fresco. The customers we saw there spoke highly of the meals and service.

We decided we would go vegetarian and sampled their ital stew with rice and peas. Ital stew is made with all locally grown vegetables, well-prepared, and tasty; we enjoyed it thoroughly.

The owner, Nadine Salmon, started the business 15 years ago, after working in similar establishments in the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao. The combination of the international Dutch and Curacolsnian blended with the local Jamaican expertise gave birth to Hot & Spicy — a potpourri of experiences.

In the future, Nadine wants to expand to other locations in Jamaica, while upgrading the beachside experience of the present property.

Hot & Spicy Restaurant

Nadine Salmon

Yallahs Main Street, St Thomas

(876)428-5588