Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards judges Selena Mohammed Wilson, Patricia Henry-Brown and Oneal Johnson recently journeyed to Mandeville to experience dining at the new addition to the town’s culinary landscape, Flamin’ Wok & Junior’s Bonesucking Bar-B-que Grill, which officially opened its doors on September 11, 2025. The visit proved to be both flavourful and memorable.

From the moment we arrived, the welcoming energy was the perfect balance between casual and lively, creating the ideal atmosphere to unwind over a hearty meal. The staff was warm and attentive throughout the evening, providing friendly service that complemented the restaurant’s easy-going vibe.

Selena kicked off the afternoon with one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails: the vibrant Purple Rain. Refreshing and visually appealing, the drink set the tone perfectly as we settled in to browse the menu.

Eager to experience the kitchen’s range, we decided to sample a variety of dishes. We began with chicken wings and wontons, both nicely prepared and full of flavour. The wings stood out in particular — perfectly crisp on the outside, while remaining tender and juicy within.

As the meal unfolded, the table quickly filled with a colourful spread of dishes including barbecue glazed pork belly, baked mac and cheese, sweet and sour fish, and a generous portion of chicken and shrimp chow mein. The pork belly delivered rich, smoky barbecue notes with a satisfying tenderness, while the baked mac and cheese offered a comforting, creamy counterpoint. The sweet and sour fish added a bright balance of tangy and savoury flavours, and the chow mein — loaded with both chicken and shrimp — was hearty, well-seasoned and satisfying.

According to owner Albert Lowe Jr, the concept behind the restaurant is thoughtful culinary fusion.

“The inspiration for fusion cooking came from a desire to bridge two worlds that on the surface seem worlds apart but share a deep soul — authentic Hakka-style Chinese cuisine and sweet, slow-cooked Texas barbecue,” he explained.

Throughout the meal, the generous portions and comforting, robust flavours stood out. Each dish felt satisfying and ideal for sharing, allowing us to sample a little of everything the kitchen had to offer.

Overall, it was a delightful outing. With good food, warm hospitality and a relaxed setting, Flamin’ Wok Junior’s Bonesucking Bar-B-que Grill is a welcomed addition to Mandeville’s growing dining scene, and well worth the drive for those seeking bold flavours and an intriguing culinary fusion.

Total for the three judges $19,200

Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards judges (from left) Patricia Henry-Brown, Selena Mohammed-Wilson, and Oneal Johnson (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

A colourful spread of dishes including barbecue glazed pork belly, baked mac and cheese, sweet and sour fish, and a generous portion of chicken and shrimp chow mein.(Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Baked mac and cheese (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Chicken and shrimp chow mein (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Barbecue wings (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Barbecue salted pork belly (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Chefs Richard Parker (left) and Ashely Bailey with Food Awards judge Oneal Johnson (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Food Awards judge Selena Mohammed-Wilson relishes Purple Rain cocktail. (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Sweet and sour fish (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Junior’s Bonesucking Bar-B-que manager Rosel Hendricks-Beckford (left), alongside Food Awards judges Patricia Henry-Brown (centre) and Selena Mohammed-Wilson (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Chicken and shrimp fried rice (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Junior’s Bonesucking Bar-B-que team (from left) Tashana McLean, Jelexy Scott, Leeandra Hanson, and Krisann Thompson (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)

Server Krisann serves Purple Rain to Food Awards judge Selena Mohammed-Wilson. (Photo: Fernandez Barrett)