Since its opening Mr Jerk has established itself as one of Soho’s culinary institutions, catering for anyone and everyone, from Soho-based professionals to visiting tourists to Caribbean food enthusiasts on a new excursion.

The Venue
Mr Jerk sits on a perfect corner of Wardour Street, each meter of which is sacred and presumably overpriced, which might explain the density of this restaurant, only able to host a maximum of 25 guests. Decor-wise, don’t expect any palm trees or coconuts hanging from the ceiling: this is a rather plain outlet, enhanced by colourful walls and plastic gingham tablecloths. Opening times are 12pm to 11pm, but the friendly staff proves very accommodating and will more often than not extend their shifts to satisfy one customer’s hunger. This said, it is highly advised to pre-book a table, as turning up unannounced may cause you a long wait.

The Atmosphere
By day, the restaurant host to local professionals seeking an alternative to pub food or ready meals. By night, its clientele is best described as cheerful punters celebrating a birthday or hen or stag night, couples on an “exotic” romantic date or groups of clubbers aware that Mr Jerk is the most fulfilling option for fast food in the Soho quarter. There’s a cheerfulness here that’s largely encouraged by the friendly and obliging staff.

Let it be said that Mr Jerk is a rather small enterprise staffed only by a few pairs of hands, which can impact on the promptness of its service. That aside, it is highly recommended to get there before 8pm to secure space and availability of your favourite dish, as due to its popularity, this little culinary temple often runs out of its goods, leaving you with secondary options.

The Food
Mr Jerk caters an affordable menu (ranging from £5 to £10), which comprises meat (with a selection of stewed oxtail, mutton and chicken), seafood (saltfish and prawns) and roti dishes made with traditional flatbread. Eager vegetarians may somehow feel left out of the delectable equation, given that the only option available to them is vegetable curry, not exactly representative of Caribbean food specialities. Still, the main course selection compensates for the small choice of starters that mainly consists of barbecue or jerk chicken wings, plantains and coleslaw. Dessert-wise, there’s nothing too adventurous here either: chocolate cake and carrot cake and a narrow selection of ice cream (the ever-so common vanilla, plus rum and raisin, which sweet teeth should definitely go for).

Lovers of sweet and sour combinations should definitely indulge in the delicious barbecue chicken wings accompanied with deep fried plantain as an appetiser. Follow this up with the hot and spicy, perfectly crunchy jerk chicken, which, as its name suggests, they specialise in and excel at. Preferable sides include the tender boiled sweet potatoes, and as a final treat to the palate, the super sweet but light Rum’n’Raisin sorbet is recommended.

The Drink
The drink selection offers a choice of punch (Guinness, Sour Sap or Pineapple) and of non-alcoholic beverages, including Ginger beer, Ting (like the Jamaican equivalent for Lilt soda) and Malt. Prices range from £1.60 to £4.

The Last Word
This little Caribbean restaurant has secured a loyal clientele thanks to its convenient location, and though true Caribbean food lovers may be disappointed by its selection, Mr Jerk is definitely worth a visit.

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