Welcome to Jamaica Sweet Spices
At Jamaica Sweet Spices, the essence of Caribbean cuisine comes alive in a vibrant Oakland setting. Born from a passion for authentic Jamaican flavors, this culinary gem offers mouthwatering dishes like jerk chicken, curry shrimp, and tender oxtails that transport your taste buds to the heart of Jamaica. Each plate is crafted with a blend of spices that pay homage to traditional recipes, while generous portions ensure satisfaction with every meal. Despite the challenges of location, the warm, welcoming atmosphere and a diverse menu, including homemade ginger beer, make Jamaica Sweet Spices a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking genuine Jamaican fare.
- 6672 International Blvd, Oakland, CA 94621 Hotline: (510) 924-7542
Welcome to the vibrant world of Jamaica Sweet Spices, where Caribbean culinary traditions come to life right in the heart of Oakland, California. Located at 6672 International Blvd, this hidden gem stands out not just for its authentic flavors but for its warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of the island's lively spirit.
At Jamaica Sweet Spices, the menu is a celebration of Jamaican cuisine, featuring an array of dishes that embody the rich culinary heritage of the island. From the much-loved jerk chicken to tender oxtails, each dish bursts with flavor, transporting your taste buds straight to the Caribbean shores. Whether you're in the mood for curry shrimp or a savory brown stew chicken, Jamaica Sweet Spices promises a feast that’s as satisfying as it is generous.
The establishment's commitment to quality is evident in every aspect, as customers rave about the large portions and the attention to detail in their preparations. For instance, reviews highlight the tender, juicy oxtails, which are praised for their melt-in-your-mouth quality, and the subtly flavored jerk chicken with its charming charred notes. One reviewer, aptly summarizing the experience, declared the food to be "bomb from the first bite until the last," reinforcing the notion that Jamaica Sweet Spices is indeed a culinary treasure.
Complementing the hearty dishes is a selection of refreshing drinks, including homemade ginger beer—a must-try for anyone seeking a taste of authentic Jamaican refreshment. With drink prices that are wallet-friendly, such as the Jamaican Pineapple Soda at $4.00, you can easily add a touch of island spirit to your meal.
As with many charming eateries, the ambiance at Jamaica Sweet Spices reflects its cultural roots, with a cozy setup that invites diners to enjoy a few moments of relaxation. Only a few tables dot the modest space, but this small footprint doesn’t diminish the exceptional service or the quality of the food. Customers repeatedly note the friendly staff, who add to the welcoming vibe of the restaurant.
While the restaurant has recently undergone some changes, with some fans expressing concern over its closure, the hope remains that Jamaica Sweet Spices will continue to delight patrons with its flavorful offerings. For anyone in search of true Caribbean comfort food, this spot offers a delectable escape.
To sum it up, Jamaica Sweet Spices is not just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Jamaican heritage through food. If you find yourself in Oakland, make sure to visit this beloved spot and immerse yourself in the tastes and aromas of the Caribbean that can brighten even the dullest of days.
Restaurant Details:
- Address: 6672 International Blvd, Oakland, CA 94621
- Phone: (510) 924-7542

CLOSED! This restaurant closed or moved within the last couple of weeks. I live right around the corner from it and was flabbergasted to see the empty sign holder and bereft store front. I loved that place and would get food from there occasionally. The prices looked expensive, but you got way more than you bargained for and it was always delicious. I sure hope they've just moved to another spot.

I'm fighting a cold and wanted soup or something spicy. I'd never noticed this spot before so I dipped in. $25 Curry Shrimp 3.9outta5 Cabbage was cooked nicely but lacked flavor, in my congested opinion. Plantains were ok. Beans & rice were okay. They reminded me of a boxed brand though & there wasn't a lot of beans. Shrimp were pretty damn good. Plump & cooked nicely. I requested spicy but it still wasn't spicy enough. Good service. Parking is a challenge! I'm thankful the tire shop next door let me park in their space. All in all, I enjoyed the meal & will patronize them again.

Food was bomb from the first bite until the last. No leftovers on this one! Service was great, it should be known that the small spots have the best food! Let everybody know this is the spot if you want REAL Jamaican food!!!

The food was amazing and gave me exactly what I needed! I ordered the three meat combo and it was so much food left over even after my husband and I shared it.

I came to Jamaican sweet spices yesterday because I was craving some good Jamaican food since I'm away from home. Upon my search this place came up. I was reluctant to try it because I was not sure it'd be good because it is Oakland. But I decided to give it a try because the next closest one was in San Francisco and I wasn't about to drive that far I ended up ordering the jerk chicken plate and the oxtail plate. The total came to $50 for both and I'd say it was worth the price because the portion sizes were very generous. When I left, I asked the receptionist, jacquille, if the food is good and he said yes, obviously bc he works there! Good business man. So I dished myself a little variety of both plates, some of the rice and peas, a piece of jerk chicken and a few oxtails. The flavor was not authentically Jamaican but it wasn't bad. The rice and peas was not made with the regular parboiled or lg white rice but it looked like basmati so that was different from what I was used to. The oxtails were very different tasting but it was pretty flavorful, kinda sweet. Overall, I am glad I got to give this place a try and I think other people should try it too!

Jamaica Sweet Spices opened where El Tortas Grill once was. it's in the middle of the block next to a tire & brakes shop. street parking on side streets nearby. look for big signage of the Jamaica flag. offerings: jerk chicken, curry shrimp/chicken/goat, brown stew chicken, soups, oxtails, red snapper, pork chops, fried chicken, beverages. eats: combination plate ($35) -curry chicken was tender, didn't have much flavor, the oxtails were tender juicy melt in mouth quality but lack robust flavors. Jerk chicken had the char taste but was slightly dry. marinated rice had herbs & spices infused along with the gravy. -cabbage was well cooked. plantains were moist, had subtle and "steamed" qualtiy. -order was ready in 5 minutes, obviously scoop ready. food had steam table unami, stewed in it's own juices. 4.5 stars food was really enjoyable. traveled well. flavor too subtle so 4 stars. drink: ginger beer (6?) homemade one. -passed on bottled one since sugar was 110% of daily requirements. -nice ginger tasting beer without excess sugar. GREAT! Courteous, quick service. take outs: -just one table in corner for dining in. -jamaican music playing in background

Dominican approved XD Ordered brown stewed chicken, and a side of plantain. Food was honestly a 10/10, I would have loved to get more rice but the flavor made up for it. My baby niece devoured the side of plantains so I couldn't even take a picture of it. 100% recommend.