A welcome burst of island flavour has arrived in Sarnia with the opening of Jerk Junction a Jamaican takeout spot that’s been serving up authentic Caribbean fare since November 2024.
Located at 850 Colborne Road, the restaurant is tucked away in Northgate Plaza but offers big, bold flavours inside. From jerk chicken to goat curry, the menu is a celebration of traditional Jamaican comfort food, crafted with care.
We stopped in recently for a late dinner and sampled a variety of dishes, each one offering its own unique blend of spices and textures.
The first standout was the Jamaican patty, a flaky, golden pastry filled with a well-seasoned beef mixture. These patties are a staple in Caribbean cuisine—hand-held, hot, and filling. The pastry itself was perfectly crisp, with a buttery flake that shattered satisfyingly with each bite. This is the kind of grab-and-go item that could easily become a lunchtime favourite for locals.
Next up were the Festivals—deep-fried dumplings that toe the line between savoury and sweet. Think of them as slightly sweet cornbread doughnuts. Made from a cornmeal-based dough with a touch of sugar and fried until golden brown, they’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Served hot, they’re ideal as a side or snack and pair well with any of the saucier mains on the menu.
We also tried the Oxtail—which arrived slow-cooked and coated in a thick, glossy gravy. The meat was rich and fall-off-the-bone tender, with a slightly sweet finish. It’s a dish that speaks to hours of patient cooking and traditional technique.
That said, the highlight of our meal was the Goat Curry—a personal favourite. The meat was deeply infused with a complex blend of spices, and the curry itself was robust, savoury, and comforting. There was a gentle heat that built gradually, with turmeric, thyme, and allspice peeking through in each bite. The goat was tender and flavourful without being overly gamey.
All of the above were served with a generous helping of rice and peas—a staple side made from rice cooked with kidney beans (or pigeon peas), coconut milk, and herbs. The rice was spectacular—moist and flavourful. As we ate we
Unfortunately, arriving close to 7pm (they close at 8), we missed out on several key menu items. The shop had run out of coleslaw, seasoned vegetables, roti, and a few other options. While we understand that popular dishes may sell out, it did leave us feeling slightly disappointed. They also missed our phone calls twice before showing up, so we couldn't order ahead of time. It’s a good reminder to visit earlier in the day for the full experience.
Despite the limited availability, it’s worth noting that the kitchen and storefront were absolutely spotless. The operation is clearly run with a sense of pride and professionalism.
Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes, and the flavours are bold, unpretentious, and true to the Caribbean culinary tradition. Whether you're a newcomer to Jamaican cuisine or a long-time fan, Jerk Junction offers something satisfying.
We’ll definitely be back—earlier next time.
Address: 850 Colborne Road, Sarnia, ON, N7T 6V8
Phone: (519) 491-6035
Sarnia Nibbles is a long-time downtown resident of Sarnia, with an insatiable love for food. They came to life on Instagram as a delicious extension of a personal love affair with food, drink, and the vibrant local community. The creator aims to capture the essence of Sarnia’s food scene, showcasing hidden gems, time-honoured favourites, and stories behind the dishes that make this city a gastronomic treasure trove.
Bon Appetit!
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