Fyah Side Jerk and Bar, brought to life by David Tapper’s enterprising spirit, is a beloved destination in Toll Gate, Clarendon, renowned for its heartfelt hospitality and its jerk, featuring The Best Dressed Chicken.

“Growing up in a family immersed in business, I witnessed my parents’ entrepreneurial spirit first-hand. My journey led me to work in the family restaurant during my school holidays. This experience instilled in me a deep love for the culinary arts. Eventually, my passion for cooking spurred me to explore the automotive industry, where I learned valuable business and customer service lessons,” says Tapper.

Today, Tapper has created a dining experience that blends his passion for creative expression with a commitment to authenticity. “I’ve always strived to infuse each dish with my unique touch, a testament to my love for originality and innovation,” he says. The menu reflects his dedication to capturing the rich flavours of Jamaica, including corn pork soup and a corn pork breakfast, but the jerk chicken is the restaurant’s undisputed star.

In addition to delivering exceptional flavours, Fyah Side has become an integral part of the community, supporting local farmers and suppliers. “In sourcing ingredients, we prioritise quality and consistency. Building strong relationships with local farmers and suppliers has been key to maintaining the high standards we set for our dishes,” Tapper says. “We believe in supporting local businesses and fostering community through our partnerships.”

The restaurant’s poultry supplier agrees. “Fyah Side serves The Best Dressed Chicken, and we take pride in their support for local farmers. Their dedication to community sourcing ensures the authenticity of their menu and contributes to uplifting the farming community,” says Arielle Oliver, brand manager, The Best Dressed Chicken.

Fyah Side has demonstrated resilience in navigating market challenges, and integrating additional supporting services has solidified its position as a distinctive destination. “Despite the challenges brought about by the pandemic and staff shortages, we have continued to innovate and adapt. Diversifying our offerings with a Qwik Stop convenience store and services such as remittances and bill payments has enabled us to weather the storm and remain steadfast in our community,” says Tapper.

The Fyah Side day begins with breakfast at 6:00 am and lunch service at 11:00 am. Dinner is available until 10.30 pm. The restaurant extends its offerings to include catering services, ensuring that every event, whether a reception or staff retreat is executed flawlessly. Fyah Side also hosts themed events that unite the community, with Karaoke Fridays offering a platform for singers at all levels to showcase their talent and Retro Saturdays immersing guests in nostalgia with a playlist from the past. “Every day, we strive to provide an exceptional experience for our customers. Listening to their feedback and adapting to their preferences has been crucial. We understand that in the restaurant industry, success comes from the food and making people feel good about their experience,” stresses Tapper.

Embracing the spirit of expansion, Fyah Side has established a second outpost at the scenic Harmony Beach Park in Montego Bay, with plans in the works for a full-service restaurant on the Hip Strip.