Jamaica: Jerk Cooking Class & Caribbean Sea Lunch at Nicole’s Table

Summary

Jerk spices hands-on class with sea views and home-cooked lunch in jamaica

You’ll learn to make true Jamaican jerk dishes right in Nicole’s home kitchen, mixing spices by hand and grilling with guidance from a local expert. Share laughs over plantain chips and swap stories on a breezy veranda facing the sea. Recipes come with you so you can bring those flavors home—though nothing beats tasting jerk chicken fresh off the grill while hummingbirds flit past your table.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about burning the jerk chicken — Nicole just handed me tongs and grinned like she knew something I didn’t. The smoke from the grill curled up into the air, carrying that sharp-sweet smell you only get from pimento and thyme. Everyone was laughing about how much pepper to use (turns out there’s no such thing as “too little” for Jamaicans), and Nicole told us stories about her grandmother’s recipe while we tried not to cough from the spice. I guess I thought jerk seasoning was just hot, but it’s way more layered than that — cinnamon, scallion, even a hint of nutmeg when you pay attention.

We started with plantain chips and pineapple salsa (I ate most of them before anyone noticed), then got our hands messy mixing up the marinade. Nicole explained where each spice comes from — she even had us sniff everything before we started. She said every island has their own take on jerk, but here in Jamaica it’s almost like a family tradition. The kitchen felt alive: someone humming by the sink, birds darting around outside, the sun making patterns on the tiled floor. Lunch was out on her veranda overlooking the Caribbean Sea — honestly, I still think about that view sometimes when I’m back home in my tiny apartment.

I’m not usually a dessert person but those coconut custard tarts? Yeah, dangerous. We swapped stories with other travelers over coffee and rum punch (Nicole pours generously), and she sent us home with all the recipes printed out so we could try them again later — though I doubt mine will ever taste quite like hers. If you’re looking for a day trip in Jamaica that feels real — like you’re actually part of someone’s life for a few hours — this jerk cooking class is it. Vegetarian options too; one guy made tofu instead of chicken and nobody judged him for it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jerk cooking class and lunch

• Learn jerk spices and history
• Discover jerk seasoning uses
• Cook jerk meat or tofu
• Prepare starter with chips and salsa
• Enjoy main dish with sides
• Eat coconut custard tarts dessert
• Dine on veranda overlooking sea

Top questions

Is this Jamaican cooking class suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, vegetarian options like tofu are available upon request; just let Nicole know when booking.

What food is included in Nicole's Table jerk cooking class?

The menu features plantain or cassava chips with pineapple salsa, jerk chicken or tofu, sweet plantain tostones, red beans and rice in coconut milk, salad, and coconut custard tarts.

Does the class include drinks or alcohol?

Yes, alcoholic beverages as well as coffee or tea are included during your meal at Nicole’s Table.

Where does the lunch take place during this day trip?

Lunch is served on Nicole's large veranda overlooking the Caribbean Sea—often with hummingbirds nearby.

Are children allowed at this Jamaican cooking class?

Children are welcome if accompanied by an adult; infants can ride in strollers/prams.

Will I get recipes to take home after the class?

Yes, printed recipes are provided so you can recreate Jamaican jerk dishes at home.

How many people are needed to run this tour?

A minimum of 4 guests is required; smaller groups may need to join an existing class or reschedule.

What’s included

Your experience includes all meals as described—snacks like plantain chips with pineapple salsa, a full jerk lunch (with vegetarian options), dessert tarts plus coffee or tea and alcoholic drinks. You’ll also get all recipes used in class to take home afterward.