It’s the tranquil setting that hits you first, followed by the tantalising aromas of an island kitchen. Welcome to Jamaica House, Houston’s tropical enclave… or as some describe it, a home away from ‘home’. Those oblivious to the changing face of the culinary landscape might not grasp the appeal for proprietor, economics major Wendi-Ann Francis-Walker. Those aware of her family’s culinary legacy, however, would smile and lustily applaud the fact that the next generation is armed with the financial acumen to ensure global continuity. Francis-Walker’s mum is the revered culinary genius Jacqui Francis who once dominated the local landscape with fare so exquisite that the very mention of her name would transport many back to grandma’s kitchen where rice and peas could be had minus meat, every fresh seasoning distinct on the palate. She was Jamaica House’s best kept secret and former Prime Minister Percival James Patterson one of her biggest fans.

Francis’s daughter Wendi, who left Jamaica almost a decade ago, brings small-island culture to the big city. To her, there was an obvious need for something for Caribbean people who now call Houston home. Today, she caters not only to resident Caribbean professionals and visitors from overseas, but also to native Houstonians and the city’s diverse international community. Eschew the notion of a ‘hole in the wall’ that is regrettably one and the same with Jamaican food in the United States. Jamaica House is a cosy endroit, where friends and family can sit, chat and enjoy the friendly service and warm hospitality that has become synonymous with the restaurant.

Mum Jacqui controls the kitchen, adding her expertise to the specialty Jamaican menu that she has created for the Galleria area eatery. Diners can delve into delectable servings of Jamaican favourites — curried goat, jerked chicken, escovietched fish — even adding Red Stripe beer to the barbecue sauce on their ribs. In fact, everything is served with a sauce, down to the flaky crust patties (or should we say Jammin’ Pocket Pies)… all loved so much by patrons that the directors are seriously contemplating bottling these homemade sauces.

Not hungry? Then enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Blue Mountain coffee, a cold Red Stripe or a glass of Ting. Or perhaps you’d prefer one of Jamaica House’s specialty cocktails like their sorrel sangria or the ‘Jamosa’.

Excellent Jamaican fare is not the only thing on the menu. There are the sounds of reggae rhythms and island tunes from the speakers as well as walls and shelves of hand-crafted items from Wassi Art, and artwork from Jamaican painters. A cultural journey of sorts continues each Friday and Saturday night, when live entertainment — bands, poets and local Houston talent — present a unique Caribbean flavour.

That Francis-Evans and her team are proudly flying the Jamaican flag would be an understatement. They have certainly heaped ample portions of our island atmosphere, cuisine and culture on individual plates in Houston, with the best news of all being the cries for one forkful more.

If you’re ever in Houston, visit Jamaica House at:

6357 Westheimer Road

Houston, TX 77057-5103

Telephone: 713-339-1004