Another slow drive into Kingston to visit, Golden Fork, 58 ½ Hagley Park Road. I needed some hearty food and I heard some amazing things about the location. The owner, Mrs Hyde, greeted me after what was an exercise to ascend the stairs to the location. Her smile was just what I needed. She is an ex-banker who gets service and, like me, is a strong believer in experiences and dining in an environment that is welcoming, beautifully laid-out with good food.

The Décor

The elements of the Golden Fork are rustic with modern elements. Under the dark, wooden tables sits dark, wood-stained chairs made from rum barrels. An elongated bar is the focal point made in white tufted upholstery. Rustic chandeliers dot the ceiling and the entire rooftop space is covered by glass. The décor gets a 9 out of 10.

The Meal

The Appetiser

My choice from the evening menu (which featured café-style choices as well as large plated Jamaican and Jamaicanised dishes) was the wings, which were very good. The presentation was great in a garnished plate. They were bathed in a sweet, tangy sauce that had the most perfect kick. Tender and very moist, they were a definite 8 out of 10.

The Soup

The soup of the day was chicken and served at the right temperature. The spices were perfectly balanced with a prominent note of St Andrew thyme, a personal favourite. Fond memories of my mother’s Saturday soup flooded the experience. I found myself tilting the bowl to enjoy the real goodness. Another 8 out of 10.

The Main Course

The Jamaican-style steamed snapper was the star of the show. By this time, I had decided I would only do a tasting on the fish and take a doggy bag, especially because of the many gastronomical experiences I had over the last 24 hours. The Golden Fork snapper would not permit the rejection. The fish was soft, well cooked and well-seasoned. There was the requisite overload of market vegetables, okra being the most popular. The obvious but not overpowering scallion flavours accompanied by the onions, dressed not just the snapper but the bits of pumpkin that swam in the juices of the seasoning. This was a big win. Needless to say, it was no longer a tasting and I ate almost ½ of the fish. Brava and a 10 out of 10 to the chef on this one.

Overall, Golden Fork gets a resounding 9 out of 10 for my experience and a ‘must come back!’ especially when I had three courses for just under $6,000. All courses were peppered with down-home heart and amazing taste.

Kudos!