Rootz N Cafe - Tamarac

The restaurant is located next to University Fitness in the shopping center across from the hospital. Currently, there is no sign, and the décor is minimal, as it used to be a takeout pizza place. There are 16 high-backed stools at four-top tables and along the walls for solo diners. Most food is served in takeout containers, suggesting that many customers choose to eat on the go. Reggae music plays in the background, creating an atmosphere that feels more like a local spot in Ocho Rios or Montego Bay than a place in Florida. You might even feel like you've just received a tip on where to find authentic food from a taxi driver on your way from the airport. The menu offers a variety of options, from fried appetizers (the shrimp are a must-try) to jerk dishes available only on weekends (Friday through Sunday) and hearty home-cooked meals like snapper, curries, and island-style pastas. There are also Rastafarian Ital dishes that are vegan-friendly. For such a small place, the menu is impressively extensive. So far, I’ve tried the fried jerk wings, which are super spicy but incredibly tasty (the heat is no joke), and the shrimp curry with mixed vegetables, which was delightful, featuring okra and sautéed cabbage. The yellow rice that accompanied the curry was generous and delicious. I also sampled the Rootz Punch, which is sweet like fruit juice but has some herbal and slightly bitter nuances, including floating bits of Jamaican allspice—not your usual herbs. The restaurant is licensed to sell beer and wine, including Jamaican beer, but you need to consume it on site. The owners and staff are incredibly friendly and truly deserve your business. If you're craving something different and can handle some spice, definitely give this place a try!

I had curry shrimp with plantains and rice. The food was delicious and fresh. I can't wait to go back! There was no sign, but it was definitely worth the search.

Before arriving, I checked the menu online to have an idea of what I wanted and the price range, but unfortunately, the prices I found online were incorrect and much higher in reality. Overall, I found the dishes to be on the expensive side. While they may be worth the price, I can’t say for sure. However, my meal was satisfying, and I would consider reordering even though I feel it’s a bit pricey.

Drove all the way from Orlando 2x only for the Cajun Chicken Pasta. Soooooo is good. I'll be back soon.

Fried Snapper made to order and was very delicious. Also had the Barbi Fry Chicken was excellent as well.