The delicious Jamaican dishes you enjoy today are the results of hundreds of years of blending different cooking styles.

From the first people who lived on the island—the Tainos—to the Africans, Spanish, British, Indians, and Chinese who came later, Jamaican food reflects a mix of many cultures.

This culinary journey through Jamaica's past and present is mixed into every spice and ingredient so that you can enjoy that flavorful taste.

And certain Jamaican dishes are so incredible, you simply can't visit the island without trying them.

Let's review eight Jamaican dishes you must try before you die. 

Ackee and saltfish

Ackee and saltfish is Jamaica's national dish and it is loved for its unique flavor combination.

Ackee, a fruit native to West Africa, is sautéed with salted codfish and spices.

The saltiness of the fish perfectly complements the buttery taste of ackee.

This dish is often served alongside fried dumplings, breadfruit, or boiled ground provisions.

Roast yam and saltfish

Roast yam and saltfish is a popular street food, especially along Jamaica’s south coast.

The yams are roasted until tender and served with flaked saltfish, making it a satisfying dish for your journey.

It's the perfect fill for your pit stop on the south coast.

Rice and peas with deep-fried chicken

Rice and peas is a Sunday dinner staple in Jamaica but you can also order it any day of the week at the nearest Jamaican food restaurant. 

It includes steamed rice with kidney beans in coconut milk and spices.

This dish is often accompanied by deep-fried chicken and a side of tossed salad.

Stew peas with steamed white rice

This is a hearty stew made with red kidney beans and it often includes pigtail for added flavor.

This dish is served with steamed white rice and is enjoyed for its rich and savory taste.

Some people prefer having stew peas with rice and peas. 

Red peas soup

Red peas soup is a traditional Saturday soup in Jamaica, featuring a flavorful broth with stew beef and sometimes pigtail.

It's a convenient meal to have during a pit stop in between tours. 

Mannish water

Some visitors call it goat soup because it's a broth of the internal parts of a goat.

For some locals, it is considered an aphrodisiac because it is believed to have revitalizing properties.

Escovitch fish and bammy

Escoveitch fish is a tangy and spicy fried fish served with steamed or fried bammy, a flatbread made from cassava. 

The best escovitch fish meals are served along Jamaica's south coast, particularly at spots like Middle Quarters. 

Jerk chicken and festival

Jamaica is home to authentic jerk meals so your trip won't be complete until you've sampled jerk chicken paired with festival.

Jerk centers are located across the island but it is strongly believed that the best jerk dishes are served in Boston Bay, Portland. 

While you're there, try other jerk dishes such as jerk pork, jerk conch, jerk sausage, jerk lobster, and jerk fish.

Authentic Jamaican drinks

To round out your meal, pair it with a refreshing Red Stripe beer or an authentic Jamaican cocktail.

If you're not a big fan of alcohol, consider trying a sorrel drink infused with ginger.