Ms. Martha’s Caribbean Kitchen forts on putting flavor first. “Preparation is what makes the food so tasty,” says Robert when describing the signature oxtail dish ($23.99), which is marinated a day in ad- vance and cooked for two hours before serv- ing. The flavor is rich, and the meat falls off the bone in delectable chunks. For a quick bite or appetizer, try the selection of baked patties ($3.75) — delicate handheld turn- overs with an airy outer crust, stuffed with your choice of beef, curry chicken, jerk chicken, beefy cheese, or vegetables. Ms. Martha strives to infuse every dish on the menu with the maximum amount of love and attention. Even for a simple side dish like plantain, the process matters the most. “Timing is key when preparing the perfect plantain,” she explains, noting the fruit’s color and how to avoid detracting from its natural flavor. Patience is crucial in this business, and Ms. Martha and company have it in spades. Whether you’re taking out or dining in, the service is stupendous. D’s Jerk Hut 15220 North Cave Creek Road, Phoenix 602-607-5540 Decked out in the black, yellow, and green of the Jamaican flag, D’s Jerk Hut invites a steady stream of customers who are here for more than just the island vibe. Spice is the specialty here, and D’s coconut curry shrimp ($16.99) is not for the faint of heart. Steamed veggies and coconut milk work together to make this dish bright and fra- grant, enhancing the perfectly cooked crispy shrimp. It’s one of the best things on the menu. The lunch special runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes your choice of curry, jerk, or brown stew chicken served with a side of rice and peas or white rice for $6.99. The stews are a standout, start- ing with the brown stew chicken ($10.99), which is slow-cooked with tender bites of meat swimming in a caramelized mix of herbs and vegetables. The oxtail ($19.99) includes piquant braised meat in a rich fatty stew that pairs nicely with a side of fried plantain and steamed vegetables. Be sure to pick up a bottle of D’s homemade natural juice ($5.25), which comes in two flavors: The sorrel is made from dried Set in one of Phoenix’s revered historical buildings, Ms. Martha serves up delectable island dishes. Below: Ms. Martha’s braised oxtail, plantain, rice and peas, and beef patty. Cyrus Guccione hibiscus flowers and adds a tart and tangy punch, while the ginger version has a spicy kick that will enhance your meal until the last bite. Cool Vybz 2340 West Northern Avenue, Phoenix 602-601-5731 Adorned with pictures of the Jamaican state bird, state flower, and the country’s coat of arms, this Caribbean gem is difficult to miss. The lunch special at Cool Vybz is similar to that of D’s Jerk Hut, with a jerk, curry, or brown stew chicken served with a side of rice and peas and cabbage for $7.99. The curry chicken, a slow-cooked dish coupled with Jamaican rice and peas, has a delicious woodsy flavor that heightens the whole meal. With Rastafarian music play- ing and a continuous flow of regulars pop- ping in to chat and pick up to-go orders, it’s clear this is a local favorite. Come for the flavor, stay for the “vybz.” This Jamaican spot is sure to impress. 27 phoenixnewtimes.com | CONTENTS | FEEDBACK | OPINION | NEWS | FEATURE | NIGHT+DAY | CULTURE | FILM | CAFE | MUSIC | PHOENIX NEW TIMES FEB 17TH– FEB 23RD, 2022
