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📍Aba, Nigeria

If you are craving Caribbean food in Aba, you don’t have to fly to Kingston. We have real spots right here, and not the watered-down versions. I’m talking about proper jerk chicken, oxtail that falls off the bone, and plantain that hits the spot. Here are the three places I trust for the real taste.

First is **Island Flavas** on **Azikiwe Road**, close to the **Aba Main Market** junction. This is not a fancy restaurant, just a solid small joint with a big following. Their jerk chicken is the star, marinated in a spicy, smoky rub and grilled right outside on a charcoal drum. You get it with rice and peas and a side of steamed callaloo. The heat is real, so ask for mild if you are not used to it. They open by 11am, but go early because the crowd from the market means food finishes fast.

Second, you need to check **Tropical Grill** on **Old Court Road**, near the **Enyimba Hotel** landmark. The owner actually spent time in Trinidad and brought back the recipes. Their oxtail is the best I’ve found in Aba. It’s slow-cooked for hours, super tender, with butter beans in a rich gravy. They serve it with fried plantains and white rice. It’s a sit-down spot with fans and cold drinks, perfect for a midday break after running errands in the town.

Third is **Sparks Kitchen** on **Umungasi Road**, off the **Aba-Owerri Road** stretch. This is home-based, run by a woman who learned from her Jamaican husband. She does takeaway only, but her roti and curry goat are unmatched. She also has homemade sorrel drink. Call her a day ahead because she cooks in small batches. The smell from her compound will guide you right to her door.

One tip: for the best experience, go with a group. The portions are generous and you can share a bit of everything. Also, don’t skip the pepper sauce they serve on the side, it’s not Caribbean but it’s the Aba way. If you want to try these places, do it on a weekend when the vibes are more relaxed.

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Linkous August @augustlinkous5217

Wait, you’re telling me I can get proper jerk chicken in Aba without having to go to Lagos? Island Flavas sounds like my kind of spot — anything grilled on charcoal is already winning. Question though: does Tropical Grill’s oxtail come with enough gravy to soak the rice or am I gonna be fighting for every drop? Asking for a friend (it’s me, I’m the friend). Definitely saving this list for my next trip down.
5 days ago

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