Anyone who’s ever been to Jamaica knows that the fun doesn’t stop once the sun goes down. The island is home to some of the best nightlife around, yet few venues in Jamaica can compete with the fun-fuelled Rick’s Cafe.
The go-to venue
Rick’s Cafe is a big part of the story behind Negril altogether. Although it’s here that Rick’s Cafe calls home, the bar’s done enough to entice visitors as much as the Seven Mile Beach it borders.
From its selection of drinks to its live entertainment and packed events calendar, this is where everyone looking for a great Jamaican night out needs to go.
A leap of faith
Rick’s Cafe is perched on a cliffside, where stone steps have been carved and from which unspoilt views of a Caribbean sunset can be enjoyed every night.
Yet another big draw for visitors here, especially adrenaline fiends, is the cliff jumping. Thanks to its height of over 10 metres, Rick’s Cafe has become a popular place for the bold to leap from the edge into the open air, landing with a splash among the swimmers and tropical fish in the sumptuous sea below. While it’s not going to be for everyone, expert advice is on hand for those keen to take the plunge.
All kinds of parties
They say Rick’s Cafe is what helped transform Negril from a fishing village into one of Jamaica’s most prized resorts. And even today, over 40 years after it first opened its doors, Rick’s Cafe still knows how to liven up your holiday.
Every Thursday, from noon until 5pm, the daytime pool party kicks into action with deals on drinks and fantastic music. While nightlife is enjoyed here, thanks to DJ sets and happy hour deals, it goes to show that Rick’s Cafe is just as keen to show off some fun in the sun.
Rocking out with live bands is another locally loved way to spend an evening, and many a Jamaican group has seen their move to the big time thanks to a performance here.
The drinks
It’s safe to say that Rick’s Cafe has a drinks menu that’s vast and exciting. Expect classic beers, from Heineken and Guinness to Jamaica’s own Red Stripe. Soft drinks like cola and orange juice are here for you too, but the cocktails really shake things up, if you’ll pardon the pun.
Martinis and Mai Tais are one thing, but Rick’s Cafe also offers a sublime selection of house specials. The famous rum punch is definitely one to try, while the Jamaican Me Crazy mixes pineapple juice, banana liqueur and three kinds of rum for a strong yet succulent beverage indeed.
Flavours of Jamaica
No rundown of Rick’s Cafe would be complete without special mention of the food. A cut above the usual bar grub, it shines thanks to classics like Caesar salad and chicken wings, but also distinctly Jamaican dishes. Broiled lobster, surf and turf, steamed red snapper and shrimp, and even fillet mignon are all available to enjoy at your tropical table.
Dessert doesn’t disappoint either. While banana fritters give a fruity twist to the tale, the star of the show is the Jamaican rum cake. Featuring lashings of the good stuff from the island’s own Appleton Estate, it’s a tipsy treat worth saving room for.
If you’ve got any stories to share from your time at Rick’s Cafe, or even in other places in Jamaica, share them in the comments.
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