Countdown to the 26th staging of the Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards
A Taste of History: Fish Rundown at Grand Hotel Excelsior Port Royal
During a recent business meeting at the iconic Grand Hotel Excelsior Port Royal, lunch became an unplanned highlight as I discovered a culinary gem — the Port Royal Fish Rundown.
The dish, a generous whole snapper, first fried to perfection then gently simmered in a rich, homemade coconut sauce with fresh seasonal vegetables, was both flavourful and delightfully comforting. Each bite revealed layers of sweet, savoury, and subtly spicy notes, making the meal deliciously moreish. At $5,100 it delivered excellent value and an authentic Jamaican culinary experience complete with a beautiful view of the seventh-largest natural harbour in the world — the Kingston Harbour.
Dining at Grand Hotel Excelsior isn’t merely a meal; it’s an encounter with Jamaica’s vibrant past. Formerly Morgan’s Harbour, the hotel is steeped in maritime lore and cinematic history — famously appearing in the first James Bond film,
Dr No. The ambiance enhances the dining experience, blending historical charm with modern comfort.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast exploring the legendary town of Port Royal, or a food lover seeking memorable local cuisine, the Port Royal Fish Rundown at Grand Hotel Excelsior provides an experience worthy of its storied surroundings.
