Review of Jimmy Buffetts Cheeseburger in Paradise Restaurant.

Well, since we are unable to go to Jamaica this year, I had to be satisfied by going to Jimmy Buffett’s restaurant, Cheeseburger in Paradise. It was good, although a poor excuse for a Jamaican vacation replacement. Having been to Margaritaville in Montego Bay, Jamaica, I was not sure what to expect. They are almost completely unlike each other. Where Margaritaville was Americanized Caribbean food, Cheeseburger was basically American food with a little spices thrown in. I was hoping for some authentic stuff, but oh well.

I’m a big fan of Jamaican Jerk. I have stuff that is made in Jamaica, Walkerswood brand jerk, seasonings and sauces, that would blow your head off. But it has the best flavor, it’s not just hot. The jerk at Cheeseburger was very good, but not hot at all. It wasn’t authentic at all. But then, I don’t think that most Americans want authentic food.

Call me cynical, but from my experience, most Americans want “authentic food” that isn’t too weird, or too spicy, or made in a way that is familiar. When I was in Jamaica, there were people in my group who wanted nothing more than to go to the Burger King down the street, because they wouldn’t eat the Jamaican food. Grow Up! I make it a point to eat anything new and different I can. I’ve eaten things that I can’t pronounce, or have any idea what it was. But it was good.

Back to Cheeseburger in Paradise. If you are hungry and want to feel happy, go for it. If you want authentic, sorry but you are going to have to go to the Caribbean or Key West.

Posted on January 11, 2008 - Filed Under Food, Not Much to do with the Beach

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