Tasty Bites @ Footeprints Hotel Negril
Negril doesn’t announce itself — it unfolds, slowly revealing its stories of beauty, food, and rhythm to those willing to move at its pace.
This idyllic and enchanting sea-splashed town continues to evolve with a blend of quaint and barefoot-luxury properties.
Luxury in Negril is never loud — it’s felt in the breeze, the view, and the freedom to simply be. Footeprints Hotel is one of those stories told through food, atmosphere, and the charm of island life. This 32-room beachfront haven offers suites, spa, pool, and three distinct dining experiences, each with its own personality yet all bound by the warmth of Jamaican hospitality.
Guests can indulge in refined island cuisine at Gatsby’s, where island flavours are elevated with intention. Here, the menu leans into contemporary Caribbean cuisine, balancing familiar tastes with modern techniques.
Unwind with fresh seafood and cocktails at Blushy’s Beach Bar. This is toes-in-the-sand relaxation, carefree, with fresh seafood and vibrant cocktails mixed to match the waves and sun-kissed shores.
Finkel’s Eatery delivers a laid-back bite, effortlessly satisfying with easy-going meals that don’t demand ceremony.
“At Footeprints we’re heavily steeped in family. The property is named from the owners, the Foote family, and each space bears the name of a family member. We always welcome guests into our family and look forward to them enjoying amenities such as the skywalk with its beautiful views, and the infinity pool. Overall, we want people to think of Footeprints for great food, wine and music,” Ramoy McFarlane, general manager, Footeprints, explained.
Executive Chef Shawn Sawyers spoke on his inspirational and directional aim, especially for the Gatsby Restaurant.
“My career as a chef is now in its 16th year, and part of my history is that I’m also a visual artist with experience as a pastry chef as well. On deciding on the cuisine profile we opted for family oriented options that feature a fusion of local and international dishes. We offer Asian, Jamaican, Indian and Mexican. We are passionate about food, so, wherever the inspiration comes [from], we’ll tweak it and add it to our canvas,” Sawyers stated.
“We have no limits, and guests can enjoy fine dining options at Gatsby’s, from our Westmoreland curry goat, curry shrimp and lobster. As Jamaicans we’re known for vibrant food, and that’s what we ensure our guests can enjoy. We have a quality gem, and the feedback from guests speaks to this. The team here is phenomenal and ready to create the best experience,” Sawyers concluded.
Entrance to Footeprints Hotel from Norman Manley Boulevard in Negril, Westmoreland (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Ramoy McFarlane, general manager, Footeprints, speaks to Thursday Food about amenities at the property. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Tipsy Daze — Overproof white rum, vodka, coconut rum, peach schnapps, triple sec, pineapple juice, lime juice, grenadine (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Kitchen team members (from left) Delarno Whyte, cook; Oniel Williams, steward; and Shawn Sawyers, executive chef. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Burrito made with spinach wrap, scrambled eggs, bacon, callaloo, tomatoes and onions. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Shawn Sawyers (left), executive chef; and Kytanna Swaby, cook, add final touches to the bread pudding. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Footeprints’s signature burger made in house with ground beef, bacon, caramelised onions, cheese and a side of fries. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Gourmet pizza with pepperoni topping; other topping options include vegetable and jerk chicken. (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Footsie — Overproof white rum, Kingston 62, Blue Curaçao, orange juice, lime juice (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
Mackerel rundown with fried dumplings and crusted, fried ripe plantains (Photo: Aceion Cunningham)
