In Jamaica, there's a popular saying: "Nuh walk wid yuh belly".

In English, it translates to: "Do not carry your stomach". In other words, when you visit, do not expect to be wined and dined.

But we're here to reassure you; if you're visiting the island for the first time or you're a returning visitor, you'll never have to worry about this fair warning.

Jamaicans, especially those on the south coast of the island, want you to "walk wid yuh belly" and enjoy a truly unforgettable, culinary holiday in your favorite island paradise.

The island's south coast boasts some of the best food and drinks excursions.

Here are 5 5 incredible food and drink experiences you should enjoy on the south coast of Jamaica. 


Have a cookout on a private beach

Spend the day on a secluded beach, dining on freshly-caught grilled lobster and fish, and drinking ice-cold beer and wine.

Launching from Treasure Beach, several fishermen offer this day trip, each with their own unique twist.

Call Dennis Shabba Abrahams at (876) 435 3779 for more details.


Take a tour of the Appleton Estate Rum factory

One of the oldest, fully operational sugar cane processing factories and rum distilleries on the island, a visit to Appleton Estate Rum Factory is a rum connoisseur’s dream.

Walk the plant and hear about the process, and venture into the aging room where thousands of barrels rest.

Find your way to the tasting room to sample the wide variety of rums and liquors produced on the property – all while gaining an appreciation for the liquid gold in your glass.

Tel: (876) 963-9215

Have lunch at the Pelican Bar

Set a quarter-mile offshore from Black River, Pelican Bar has garnered itself the well-deserved reputation of being one of the coolest bars in the world.

Accessible only by boat, guests can kick back with a few cold beers, slap down dominoes with a cast of colorful characters, and lounge on the boardwalk that extends out into the Caribbean Sea.

A great place to catch a sunset, pack your snorkels, or tack on a boat ride up the Black River – either way, it’s a great day out for everyone.

Boat trips can be organized by Jakes Hotel Villas and Spa (call 876 965 3000 for details). Pick-up is usually at Frenchman’s Bay (in Treasure Beach), or on the dockside in Black River.

Eat Middle Quarters shrimp

On the road between YS Falls and Luana, spread out around one of the only roundabouts on this road, are vendors selling salty and spicy river shrimp.

Grab a bag, wash it down with an ice-cold drink and make sure not to touch your eyes and to wash your hands before you move on – this local delicacy is not for the faint-hearted!

Try Jakes' farm-to-table dinner

Presented on the Saturday closest to the full moon during the months of November to May, Jakes' farm-to-table dinner aims to celebrate the bounty of the parish of St. Elizabeth – otherwise known as the breadbasket of Jamaica.

A five-course meal that includes wine and a sunset cocktail is set under a mango tree, under the stars, in a field overlooking the Pedro Plains.

Although you don’t have to be staying at Jakes to attend, reservations are necessary.

Call 876 965 3000 or email stay@jakeshotel.com for more information.

Culinary tour of the south coast

And this is how you have an awesome, culinary tour of Jamaica's south coast. 

Then spend a few minutes or hours bathing in the warm waters at any of the inviting beach spots after your incredible dining experience.