Jerkies — Review by Daym Drops
Norwalk, United States — Caribbean/Jamaican
Jerkies in Norwalk serves authentic Jamaican cuisine with standout jerk beef sliders and an exceptional lobster rasta pasta that delivers incredible flavor with extreme heat. Despite the intense spiciness of the pasta that left the reviewer's throat sizzling, he gave the lobster dish a perfect 100 rating, calling it the best he's ever had and praising the chef's passion and skill.
What was great: Jerk beef sliders with perfect balance of spice, grilled flavor, and sweet cream sauce. Lobster rasta pasta with incredible flavor, tender pasta, fresh lobster, and perfectly balanced Jamaican seasonings. Soft, made-to-order quality. Chef's dedication and passion for the food.
What could improve: The lobster rasta pasta was extremely spicy - so intensely hot it burned the reviewer's throat and was difficult to manage. The spice level was challenging even for someone expecting heat.
The Dishes
The reviewer started with jerk beef sliders, two patties for $12 total ($6 each). The sliders featured soft, grilled buns with cheddar cheese, pickles, and a sweet cream sauce that provided nice acidity and moisture. The jerk spice was present but not overwhelmingly hot, giving just the right hint of flavor. The grilled taste was prominent, making it feel like a backyard Jamaican cookout experience.
The standout dish was the lobster rasta pasta, which immediately challenged the reviewer with its extreme heat. The plate arrived with tender pasta coated in a creamy, spiced sauce loaded with fresh lobster, peppers, cheese, and parsley. While the flavors were exceptional and multi-layered, the spice level was so intense it burned his throat, made him struggle to cool down, and had him questioning how the kitchen achieved such powerful heat. Despite the discomfort, he praised the quality, noting nothing was dried out and everything tasted made-to-order with impeccable seasoning.
The Experience
The reviewer went to the kitchen to personally thank the chef for the lobster pasta, emphasizing that when food is that good, you make it known. The chef confirmed he made the dish himself, earning the reviewer's respect and a new level of appreciation. The atmosphere seemed casual and welcoming, with the kind of mom-and-pop energy that makes the food feel authentic and personal.
Value and Pricing
The jerk beef sliders at $6 each represent solid value. While specific pricing for the lobster rasta pasta wasn't mentioned, the reviewer emphasized that stepping away from fast food to visit a mom-and-pop restaurant needs to be worth the drive, and he felt this experience absolutely justified the trip to Norwalk.
Notable Moments
This is the best, hands down. The best lobster pasta I ever had. And it's getting that 100.
You don't get this with fast food. When I got to step off the fast food zone and go to a mom and pop, I got to make sure it's worth my while.
You in Connecticut, you better make your way over here. Cuz this right here going to set it off.
The Verdict
Jerkies delivers authentic Caribbean cuisine with genuine passion and skill. The jerk beef sliders earned a solid four out of five rating, while the lobster rasta pasta received a perfect 100, despite its tongue-searing heat. This is a must-visit for anyone in Connecticut seeking authentic, flavorful Caribbean food, though fair warning: the spice levels can be extreme. The reviewer, who previously dismissed Norwalk's food scene, was converted by this restaurant and strongly encourages everyone to make the trip.