It wasn't until my birthday last April when my flatmate and I decided to get some food from this place. Firstly, we wanted to celebrate my birthday in a different and exotic way; and secondly, we were curious to finally taste the food from that little place at 120 Cheltenham Road that seemed to be very popular: Rice and Things.
We have never had Jamaican food before. We just knew it would be spicy, exotic and very different to what we've had so far. We joined the queue and read the little blackboard full of choices, trying to make up our mind to order in the tiny desk they have right at the entrance. It was our turn and we still didn't know what to order. The waiter, who told us we were two of the few Spanish speakers coming to the restaurant, helped us with the choice. 'Are you vegetarian? Are you used to spicy food?', he asked. Our answers were "No" and "No" and he suggested a bunch of options to ease the selection process. All dishes are served with Rice with Peas or White Rice.
I chose a Jamaican Capital Ackee and Saltfish with Rice & Peas (£7) in medium size (for just £1 more, the waiter said the medium size was really worth it). My flatmate ordered Spring Village Fried Chicken with White Rice (£7), also medium size. We also ordered some St Thomas Fried Ripe Plantain Slices (£1.50) and the waiter added some coleslaw (£1.5) for free, as it was our first visit. They ask you if you want them hot (best option if you're going home straight away) or cold (you can warm it up later).
Once at home, we realized why the place was so popular! The food was very tasty, full of flavour. The fish was tender with the softness of the ackee. The saltiness of the fish was perfectly conteracted with the rice. Just perfect. My flatmates dish was also really good, probably slightly more spicy than mine, but also with a very interesting mix of flavours.
If you are looking for authenticity, I suggest you go try the food in Rice and Things. It is exceptional value for money. The company which started as a take-away now it has become into a Jamaican Restaurant. Open 7 days a week offering lunches and dinners in take-away service as well as sit down.
Apparently, every last Friday of the month, they have an all-you-can-eat for £10. Booking is essential due to the popularity of the event. There are two-hour slots (18.30-20.00 or 20.30-22.00) and although the calendar at their website has not been updated yet, I guess next all-you-can-eat will be the 27th June. Looking forward!
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