You’re driving down 95th Street in Chicago, hungry, and the smell of pimento wood and habanero hits you before you even see the sign. If you know the South Side, you know exactly where you are. We’re talking about Jamaica Jerk Choice 95th Jeffery, specifically the spot located at 1934 East 95th Street. It’s right there near the corner of 95th and Jeffery Boulevard, nestled in the Pill Hill/Calumet Heights area.
Honestly? Finding good jerk in Chicago isn’t the hard part. The hard part is finding the one that doesn't skimp on the spice or the portion sizes when you're paying twenty bucks for a dinner.
What You Need to Know About the 95th and Jeffery Location
This isn't some corporate franchise. Jamaica Jerk Choice 95th Jeffery is a staple for a reason. People around here call it "Jerk Choice," and it has a reputation for being consistent. If you’ve ever been to their other location in Oak Forest, you know the vibe, but the 95th Street location has that specific Chicago energy.
It’s mostly a takeout operation. Don't expect a candlelit dinner. You’re there for the white styrofoam containers that are usually struggling to stay closed because they’re so packed with food.
The Menu Breakdown: Jerk Choice 95th Jeffery Favorites
If it’s your first time, don't overthink it. Most people go for the D1 Jerk Chicken Dinner. It’s the gold standard here. You get a mix of dark and white meat—usually a breast, wing, leg, and thigh—plus two sides and that iconic Jamaican hard dough bread.
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But if you want to eat like a regular, you have to look at the other options.
- The Oxtails (D7): These are arguably the most popular item behind the chicken. They’re tender, succulent, and usually come with a generous amount of gravy. Just a heads up: they aren't cheap. You’re looking at around $25.00 depending on the current market price, but for 3 to 4 large pieces that fall off the bone, most locals agree it’s worth the splurge.
- Jerk Chicken Egg Rolls: This is the "hidden" star of the menu. They’re crunchy, cheesy, and filled with spicy jerk meat. They usually come as a pair for about $9.00.
- The Lunch Specials: If you can get there between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM, the lunch specials are a steal. You can grab a Jerk Lunch (L2) with a leg, thigh, and two sides for roughly $13.99.
Let's Talk About the Heat
The jerk sauce at Jamaica Jerk Choice 95th Jeffery is no joke.
It’s got that creeping heat. You take a bite, think "oh, this is flavorful," and then three seconds later, the Scotch Bonnet peppers start talking to you. They usually serve the sauce on the side unless you ask them to "drown it." If you aren't a spice veteran, definitely keep the sauce on the side.
The sides are what anchor the meal. The Red Beans and Rice are the traditional choice, but the Candy Yams are the real MVP. They provide that sweet contrast to the spicy chicken that makes the whole meal work.
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Why This Specific Spot Matters to the South Side
There are plenty of Caribbean joints on the South Side, like Jerk 48 or Caribbean Jerk Joint. So why do people keep coming back to 95th and Jeffery?
It’s the "Choice" part of the name. They actually give you options that other places don't. Want an all-white meat dinner? You can get the D2. Want just the tips? They’ve got Bar-B-Que Jerk Rib Tips. They even do a Jerk Salmon Salad for those trying to keep it a bit lighter, though let’s be real, once you add the extra dressing and a side of mac and cheese, "light" is a relative term.
The location is also key. Being right on 95th Street means it's a primary stop for people commuting home to the East Side or heading toward the expressway.
A Few Insider Tips Before You Go
- Check the Hours: They typically open at 11:00 AM and close around 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM. On Sundays, hours can be a bit more unpredictable, so call ahead at (773) 437-5318.
- The Wait Time: Since a lot of the food—especially the fish and wraps—is made to order, the wait can be 15-20 minutes. If you’re hangry, order through Uber Eats or DoorDash before you head over.
- Parking: It’s a busy stretch of 95th. Street parking is usually available but can be tight during the lunch rush.
- The Gravy Rule: If you get the rice, always ask for extra oxtail or jerk gravy on top. It’s a game changer and usually doesn't cost extra if you're nice about it.
Dealing with the Price Hikes
Look, we have to be honest. Prices for oxtails and goat have skyrocketed everywhere in the last few years. Jamaica Jerk Choice 95th Jeffery has had to adjust their prices too. Some regulars complain that the portions aren't quite as massive as they were five years ago, but compared to the rest of the city, you’re still getting a lot of food for your money.
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The quality of the meat remains high. You aren't getting a bunch of fat and bone; you’re getting actual meat.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
If you're planning to stop by, here is how to handle your order like a pro:
- Order the D8 Combination Dinner if you can't decide. It lets you pick two meats (like Jerk Chicken and Fried Catfish) so you get the best of both worlds.
- Always get the Beef Patties. They’re only a few bucks and they make for the perfect snack while you’re waiting for your main platter to be prepared.
- Verify your bag. Before you drive off, double-check that your jerk sauce and bread are in there. There’s nothing worse than getting home to Calumet City or South Shore and realizing you’re missing the sauce.
Jamaica Jerk Choice 95th Jeffery isn't just a restaurant; it's part of the fabric of the neighborhood. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or a massive dinner tray for the family, it delivers that authentic Jamaican flavor that hits the spot every single time.