Jerk N' Jive is a one-of-a-kind gem of a restaurant right in Frederick. Since the age of 5, James Smith, the restaurant’s founder and owner, has been enjoying Caribbean food as part of his family menu. Fast forward to adult life, he was living in Frederick and noticed the absence of this cuisine in the area. Today, he and his wife, Danielle, run two locations (Jerk N' Jive Bar & Kitchen on Prospect Boulevard and Jerk N' Jive Caribbean Kitchen on North East Street), and they have become a treasure to the local community.
A trip to their new Bar & Kitchen location is an instant transport to the Caribbean itself, both due to the authentic, high-quality food and the atmosphere. From elegant rattan pendant light fixtures, to tastefully-painted palm tree leaves decorating an accent wall, to the towering palm tree in the center of the restaurant, to the constant stream of island tunes, it’s natural to forget you’re still in Frederick. And while looks can be deceiving, that’s certainly not the case with Jerk N' Jive. The food and drink here is more than a match for the aesthetic. Think: authentic oxtail stew, a whole fried red snapper, jerk chicken nachos boasting homemade cheese sauce and creamy coconut shrimp. And drinks? All of their beer and bourbon selections will delight, and many rave about the Jive Juice–their version of a rum punch–and the tropical mimosa. When it comes to Caribbean food, this is the real deal. But their expertise isn’t limited to one cuisine.
“In 2020, I wanted to expand on the menu and offer some American food along with the Caribbean food to give everyone something that they can enjoy,” James explained.
From a pound of delicious wings tossed in your seasoning of choice, deliciously crispy fried chicken, a juicy 8-oz sirloin, the heaping Jerk N' Jive Burger—there is truly something for every palette—and not one disappoints.
So, what’s better than delicious food in an upscale restaurant that makes you feel like you’re on vacation? All of that—and then throw in live music from beloved local bands!
All summer long, Jerk N' Jive’s Saturday Night Live Concerts will be one of the hottest places to enjoy incredible live music along with the all-star dining experience locals have come to love. Whatever your genre, they likely have someone lined up that’s right up your alley. From the HIT Parade, to the local Earth Wind and Fire Tribute band, to Jah Works, there will be music for every taste.
So, if you’re looking for your next date night or a fun guys' or gals' night out, mark your calendar! Saturdays at Jerk N' Jive’s Bar & Kitchen is the place to be. JerkNJiveBar.com
PULL QUOTE FOR PAGES 3-4: "Jerk N' Jive is a one-of-a-kind gem of a restaurant right in Frederick."
