Exquisite Express

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Brooklyn at 2847 Church Ave, Exquisite Express serves up a truly authentic Jamaican dining experience that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more. Specializing in classic Jamaican fare, this cozy restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere where the rich aromas of jerk spices and simmering stews instantly transport you to the islands.

The menu reads like a love letter to Jamaica's culinary heritage, with standout dishes that have garnered rave reviews. Their oxtail with rice and peas & plantains is famously tender and bursting with bold, savory flavors, earning praise from diners like Hanna B, who called it "the best oxtail" she's ever had. For fans of the iconic jerk flavor, the jerk chicken—available in various portions, from small meals to a whole chicken—is a must-try. Served fresh off the grill (when the grill master is on duty), the chicken is impeccably seasoned with a fiery and complex jerk sauce that elevates every bite. Amanda Wang remarks on the satisfying crunch of their fresh salad sides, complementing the smoky chicken perfectly.

Seafood aficionados will appreciate the escovitch fish served with bread, delivering a vibrant, tangy punch balanced by tender, flaky fish. Vegetarians need not feel left out thanks to sides like steamed vegetables, cabbage and carrots, and natural juices that refresh the palate, including house favorites like homemade mauby and sorrel. The porridge options—oatmeal and cornmeal—offer comforting warmth to start the day or soothe after a flavorful feast.

The environment at Exquisite Express is casual and lively, ideal for quick lunches or relaxed dinners. Though it’s a bustling spot with popularity evident on busy nights, the restaurant prides itself on generous portions and authentic taste that’s worth every penny. Some guests have noted variations in service and food quality depending on the day, highlighting the importance of timing your visit, especially if you want perfectly grilled jerk chicken as C.P.O. advises.

To wash down your meal, consider a chilled Red Stripe beer or one of their homemade beverages—each crafted to enhance your dining experience and offer a true taste of Jamaica. Whether you’re craving bold, spicy jerk chicken, soul-soothing oxtail, or tangy escovitch fish, Exquisite Express delivers a flavorful slice of Jamaica in the heart of Brooklyn, leaving you with a lingering warmth and a hunger to return very soon.