The Islands

The Islands Caribbean Cookshop brings the flavors and atmosphere of traditional island cookshops to Toronto's Front Street West. Located in The Well, this quick-service spot specializes in authentic Caribbean staples like jerk chicken, oxtail, curry goat, and Jamaican patties. The restaurant aims to serve diners who want genuine Caribbean cuisine without the wait of a full-service restaurant.

The space itself tells a story. Corrugated steel trim, green mesh backdrops, and a neon scotch bonnet pepper recreate the look and feel of the cookshops you'd find throughout the Caribbean islands. It's a design choice that connects the food to its cultural roots while keeping service fast and efficient. One regular customer notes that the team makes every visit better with their genuine kindness, highlighting the personal touch that sets the spot apart.

The menu focuses on consistency and quality across traditional dishes. Reviews mention well-marinated jerk chicken and flavorful rice, though some diners have found certain items like the roti could use extra gravy to balance dryness. At a moderate price point, The Islands offers a straightforward approach to Caribbean cooking for anyone craving authentic island flavors in a modern, accessible setting.