Standout Jamaican dishes in Greektown
Good mid-range Jamaican restaurants are hard to come by in Toronto. The majority are budget restaurants geared for takeout. Simone’s Caribbean Restaurant is one of the exceptions. It stands out in the competitive Greektown restaurant scene and has survived for almost a decade. A testament to its quality.
The food
For first-timers, I’d recommend the jerk chicken. It’s moist and has balanced seasoning. Almost fruity even. It’s not spicy like other restaurants, which might be a good or bad thing, but it’s still worth trying for its unique flavour profile. 8/10.
For repeat visitors, try expanding your horizons with different Jamaican carbohydrates. Simone’s has the full range of sides here: Johnny cakes (cornmeal pancakes), festivals (sweet and salty fried cornmeal sticks), plain rice, rice and peas, boiled dumplings, boiled green bananas, and fried plantains, Few Jamaican restaurants in Toronto can match this variety.
All their mains are solid. Their curry chicken is sweet and savoury, similar to Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen but cheaper and has more meat. 8/10.
Their rice and peas are average (6/10) as with most Caribbean places. At least it’s not overcooked and mushy. But their coleslaw is memorable. It has a hint of vanilla and isn’t overdressed, making it light to eat (8/10).
Their barbecue chicken came in an equally hefty portion. While not the best in Toronto, it was still tasty. It was still a bit moist. The skin was crispy and the piquant spices of the marinade came through (7.5/10).
The boiled dumplings were dense discs of flour, cut into quarters. They were gummy and tasteless. Meaning, it was great for pairing with a saucy main. 7/10.
The boiled green bananas served the same purpose as the dumplings. However, they were smoother and sweeter which made for a good contrast (7.5/10).
The place
Simone’s Caribbean Restaurant fits in well with the neighbourhood. It’s doesn’t have the spartan and fast-food vibes found at other casual Jamaican restaurants. On the contrary, it’s a pleasant space to hang out for an extended meal.
The restaurant is small, and that includes the tiny patio at the front that can seat a grand total of 4 people. Come early, make reservations, or order takeout.
Verdict
Excellent cooking of Jamaican classics, with a top-notch selection of carbohydrates. 8/10.
Practical information
- Name
- Simone’s Caribbean Restaurant
- Rating
- 8/10
- Recommended dishes
- Curry chicken
Jerk chicken - Prices
- Jerk chicken dinner: $16.95 ($15.00 excluding tax)
Curry chicken dinner: $17.52 ($15.50 excluding tax)
Barbecue chicken dinner: $16.95 ($15.00 excluding tax) - Address
- 596 Danforth Avenue
- Hours
- Monday to Saturday 1100h – 2200h
Sunday 1100h – 2100h - Date of visit
- April 2014, February 2021, May 2021, November 2022