Caribana is an Island Bar & Grill Located in Gurnee, IL. Caribana is NOT an authentic Jamaican restaurant and we make no such claim. We use spices from different islands like Haiti, Belize, Puerto-Rico, Jamaica, etc…
Give us a try and hopefully you like the food and enjoy the vibe.
Porsha Holston
In my opinion, the restaurant could use a makeover to make it feel more inviting. We weren’t greeted when we came inside. It was taco Tuesday, they were good but a bit small, fair for the price…I liked the chicken taco more than the steak. My pasta was a bit disappointing, I paid $5 for extra shrimp and they only threw 4 pieces in… and I found the pasta to be oily instead of saucy. I just had better expectations, it had a nice flavor however a bit spicy but the chicken saved the dish. I asked the guy working there about the shrimp portion and he just responded with “it’s out of my control” and that he’d have to ask the cooks in the back, he didn’t make an effort to resolve the issue or anything. I said “well now I know I guess.” Safe to say I won’t be ordering that again, save the $5 and don’t get the extra shrimp. My partner said they enjoyed the chicken curry, no complaints. I would come back again, I like how many options they have on the menu but I wish the service was better. Our waiter also was watching tv and not that attentive even though it was only us and one other couple in the restaurant.
… moreHajjar I.
Came here for happy hour and it was worth the stop! Very clean and open space with the Caribbean theme all around. The waitress made yummy, strong drinks, very friendly, and personable. There’s a photo stand, a live music stage, and plenty of seating. The food was delicious, big portions, very flavorful with the right amount of heat. The only cons is that the barstools are sort of uncomfortable and some of them were broken. Overall though definitely check them out!
… moreMAGIK Treasures
Mac was salty oxtails were shy of meat vs bones. Rice and beans were bland, plantains were perfect. Salmon sliders were soggy from the cabbage juice. So yeah I missed today. Considering how much the food cost I wouldn’t pay to have another similar experience twice. I was offered a 20$ reward through in-kind which the restaurant wouldn’t accept the night I went.
… moreDoneshia
The food quality has drastically changed. Today I ordered the curry chicken and oxtails, bowls and unfortunately, neither lived up to the expectations I had from previous visits.
The curry chicken was particularly underwhelming; it tasted as if it had been seasoned with ramen noodle “chicken seasoning packets ,” leaving it bland and watery. I expected a rich, flavorful dish, but this was far from it.
As for the oxtails, they lacked flavor entirely. Instead of the tender, savory experience I remembered, the dish was disappointing, and the accompanying rice was extremely hard and unappetizing.
Overall, it seems like there’s a significant decline in quality, and I hope they can address these issues soon.
… moreAnna C
This was my first time experiencing carribean food. I tried very unique dishes such as the Oxtail plate, lobster chowder and the Jerk chicken plate. The lobster chowder was a little bit too salty even though I like spicy and salty food. The beef patty was fresh and nicely seasoned. The veggies were perfectly grilled. If you want to introduce your taste buds to something new and flavorful, go to this restaurant.
… moremarissa wadlington
This place was very decent despite my honey is also from the islands (Trinidad) he very much so throws down when it comes to cooking his traditional meals this place was actually good and the drinks was great. What I really loved was the environment the concert that was being shown while enjoying the food was really awesome. I had the ox tails meal and he had the jerk chicken plus we had the real beef patties !! Yummmyy
… moreChris Diaz
Total Hidden Gem!
My wife and I decided to try a new place and I have to say totally glad we did.
From showing up the restaurant to the order placing and great suggestions on menu options to the service and food quality and flavor outstanding.
We shared the empanadas and the lobster chowder. The empanadas where chicken and bean and where accompanied by a mayo siracha sauce which totally complemented the homemade flaky crust empanadas.
The lobster chowder was delicious with chunks of lobster and cheesy chowder base.
I had the ox tail plate with the rice and beans and cabbage, I placed my rice and beans in the stock from the Ox tails which was pure heaven.
My wife had the Jerked Chicken platter with the mac and cheese and sweet potatoes, both sides were very well prepared and for someone that does not care for mac and cheese it was delicious, the chicken was juicy and flavorful.
The atmosphere and the vide suited the location perfectly, made you feel like you are in a Caribbean restaurant.
Drinks where well prepared and balanced perfectly.
Lastly service was delivered timely by a warm and welcoming host, she definitely made you feel welcomed and had great recommendations.
I would recommend this restaurant with out any reservations, great place all around and we are looking forward to our next visit.
… moreDaniel Mi
This place is a gem waiting to be found. Some of the best dishes I’ve ever had at their buffet. 1st Sunday of every month is a Soulfood brunch. Check it out its GREAT.
Absolutely love the staff. So friendly and personable. I look forward to seeing them lots!
… moreCristina
I wish we had a restaurant like this in Florida!! Best Caribbean spot I have ever had!!! The oxtail bowl and fried cabbage snapped! Everything was seasoned with love and just amazing!
… moreJosh Horrall
It was late night and had a chill vibe! Karaoke going on in the background and the waitress was fun and provided great service. The food was pretty on point and I would visit again!
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