Maitland Matherne
Kelly’s is one of those places that reminds you why local, family-run spots are the heart of great food scenes. I ordered a large jerk chicken plate with spicy cabbage, collard greens, cornbread, and a veggie patty.
The jerk chicken was the undeniable star: smoky, juicy, and packed with flavor. The seasoning was bold without being overwhelming, and you could taste the layers of flavor. It’s the type of chicken that doesn’t need sauce to save it.
The spicy cabbage definitely packed a punch but it came with a sweet undertone that complemented the chicken and tied everything together. The collards were cooked beautifully, tender and savory. You could tell they had been simmered properly, letting the flavors develop instead of rushing them. The cornbread was slightly sweet, moist, and exactly what you need on a plate like this. It helped balance the spice from the chicken and cabbage, making the meal feel complete.
Overall, Kelly’s delivers authentic Jamacian comfort food with soul. The portions are generous, the flavors are bold, and the food is made by people who genuinely care about the food they are serving. If you are in Athens and want something satisfying, spicy, and full of character, this place is a must-try. I’ll definitely be back to work my way through the rest of the menu!
… moreSamantha Sherman
You gotta go see Kelly! He’s a angel on earth and he’ll fix you up with the best ox tails you’re ever gonna eat. He makes sure your plate is piled high and overflowing with incredible food and love. Some spicy cabbage, and those collards with his homemade pepper vinegar… don’t get any better. Just make sure you save a little for the next day cause it’s awesome cold too:)
… moreTraci Collins
I was thoroughly disappointed with this establishment. Despite the lack of appealing options, I decided to give it a try. I ordered the jerk chicken, jerk pork, and salmon. As for the sides, I opted for rice and peas, spicy cabbage, and mac and cheese.
The jerk chicken and jerk pork were drenched in a loose ,oily gravy. The rice was absolutely terrible, and the mac and cheese was burnt and tasted like water with no flavor. I’m not sure what part or who is from Jamaican but I can tell you this food wasn’t. I’m quite confused by the number of reviews that stated the food was great. Don’t waste your time or money here. Oh the cornbread was good.
… moreDrake Talley
The best Jamaican food to ever exist. I could eat it everyday and did back in college. Planning on a road trip to come back soon. Makes me want to move back to Athens!!! Kelly is the best dude around.
… moreBeauti FAHT
This was my first time visiting here. Sandy was my attendant and she was so very kind and welcoming. She allowed me to taste test and view all the food before making my choice. Sandy was very patient and informative. I chose the jerk chicken beans n rice corn bread and green beans. I downed it all with a sweet tea. This is a great meal. The next time I wanna get the jerk pork mac n cheese with collard greens and corn bread. Thank you Sandy for giving me a great experience.
… moreEleanor Tyner
Great lunch! The jerk chicken was delicious, and came with cornbread and iced tea. $16 small or $18 large- this one is a large. Will be back!
… moreSamuel McCain
I’ve had oxtail at probably 30+ Jamaican places. The oxtail here is legit. Easily tied for top I’ve ever had with a place in Nashville. Will be back everytime I am in Athens. Awesome food and nice people.
… moreMadison Flynt
My boyfriend and I tried Kelly’s for the first time today and WOW! We were so impressed. We are quite the foodies and love to try new things and this place definitely falls into my top 10. We shared a large plate of jerk wings which were perfectly spicy and juicy and fell right off the bone. The rice was spiced and delicious and covered in jerk chicken gravy. The Mac n cheese was also amazing. The corn bread was so moist and sweet it was almost like cake! I’ll definitely be back and encourage everyone to try this place out.
… morejacob farino
I’ve been sampling the fare at Kelly’s for years now. Let me just tell you ~~ one of the best and authentic Jamaican cuisine I’ve ever had. I’ve never had a bad meal. Their pattys are phenomenal. My personal favorite is jerked pork. And, to boot, their portion sizes are excellent. Oh, and the owners are SUPER good people.
… moreDaniel Ott
This is by far the best restaurant I’ve eaten at in a VERY LONG TIME!! Everything tasted great, but beware the cabbage is very spicy. Kelly is also a super friendly guy. I can’t wait to go back on Friday to try the oxtails and goat curry (both are only available on Friday, but get there early as both sell out quick!)
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