Jerky Jerk

With a small takeout window and seating area next door, Jerky Jerk, 2253 W. Taylor St., serves an array of Caribbean dishes that feel authentic and flavorful.

The restaurant, best known for its jerk chicken, offers several options of chicken meat, including half a half chicken with both light and dark meat. Like with most chicken dishes, the dark meat is much more moist and flavorful, with a smoky, grilled flavor and smooth texture throughout. However, the light meat is noticeably more dry and lacks the smoky flavor of the dark meat. However, the chicken skin remains consistent throughout both: crisp and seasoned with ground pepper, which gives a savory and slightly charred taste.

When thinking of jerk chicken, adjectives like “spicy” and “hot” may come to mind. Surprisingly, the chicken itself was neither of those things. The entrée comes with a side of jerk chicken sauce which is immediately spicy upon a taste, but leaves a sweet but slightly burning aftertaste.

Jerky Jerk offers dine-in, takeout and delivery options. When calling to confirm and then picking up a takeout order, the staff is attentive and timely when preparing the order. Best eaten warm, their jerk chicken and side dishes travel well and do not require reheating.

For $39 to feed a family of three, Jerky Jerk delivers a convenient and authentic Caribbean takeout experience.