There’s nothing quite like a Friday night bar crawl with a fun crew — or make that Food Awards judges! The four city hot spots selected were KarPark Car Wash & Bar, 5 Belmont Road; Di Bar, 5 Haining Road; and The Coppers, 9 Haining Road, with a final stop at the AC Hotel, Kingston,38-42 Lady Musgrave Road. We were not disappointed. In fact, each spot had its own unique value proposition and, most importantly, a loyal clientele.

KarPark Car Wash & Bar provides a family atmosphere. It gives off a Friends sitcom vibe: everybody knows your name and, by extension, your preferred beverage and place to sit. Theme nights include Twisted Tuesday with 2-4-1 tequila shots and DJ Debra on the ones and twos; Friday affords DJs Clive Buddo, Edson, and Trilogy the opportunity to juggle and mix beats; and Karaoke on Saturday is hosted by DJ Debra. What makes KarPark Car Wash & Bar unique? Bar owner Nadine Parkes suggests, “The vibe we bring here. Our location attracts patrons in their late ’30s and up, where they can enjoy our themed nights, soulful music, have a drink, and play dominoes, scrabble, and other games”.

DiBar, a popular weekday and weekend hot spot, comes alive in the wee hours of the morning. So, it’s best to grab an early snooze before heading out and partaking of their meticulously crafted cocktails or a wide range of top-shelf liquor. DiBar principal Shaun Tomlinson prides himself on having an establishment that provides an environment for patrons to unwind and relax. “From our food and drink options to the deejays, our focus is on giving the very best experience. DiBar is a spot that provides a vibrant and inclusive space for all to enjoy a memorable night out in the heart of New Kingston’s lively nightlife scene”. Tomlinson also shared that he’ll be hosting a series of summer parties starting soon.

Few will dispute how The Coppers restaurant has re-energised the culinary landscape. The go-to establishment for birthday celebrations — there were at least six last Friday — is also a popular dining and beverage spot. Friday night’ focus was cocktails Friday night, and Executive Chef and co-owner Ramesh Maragh shared, “Our bar manager Ikkie Beadle, puts in countless hours of research and development to offer our customers the best possible cocktails. We have partnered with Appleton Estate Rum, and so we are very forward with our quality”. Mixologists on duty, notably Owen Bennett, Lloy Gayle, and Ikkie Beadle, were not shy about displaying their skills. From Amaretto Sour to Moscow Mule to Gin & Tonic, they were a pleasure to watch.

AC Hotel Kingston was our final stop, where patrons were in festive mode as they raised toasts to the property’s four-year milestone. “AC Hotel Kingston opened its doors in 2019 with one mission: to create a new and meaningful way to enjoy the city of Kingston. To mark our four-year milestone, the hotel hosted a series of themed events from June 14–17, 2023, under the theme “Four-Year Memory Lane.” Food and Beverage Manager Rushell Kenlock told Thursday Food “The celebration kicked off with RETRO Bourbon on Wednesday, in partnership with Select Brands and Jim Beam. The AC Lounge transformed into a Retro haven, serving exclusive Jim Beam specials. On Thursday, Poetry & Wine took centre stage, collaborating with Old Tavern Wines to create special drink mixes using their exquisite wines,” she added.The Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards judges stepped into the swing of things, notably “Lyme on the Lawn,” enjoying the 4 for $44 special, featuring a combination of Margarita, Blue Storm, AC Sour, and Corner Bar shots paired with Tapas. The selection included Char Siu Pork Tenderloin, Crab Croquettes, Chicken Lollipops, and Roasted Beef Canapés, curated by executive chef Demor Walters, all for $44.00.

What was evident as we stepped out in the wee hours of Saturday morning is that Kingston comes alive on a Friday night.

Photographer: Garfield Robinson