Cool Runnings Jamaican Grill

This is the best place I have found in Houston for Jamaican/Caribbean food. The Brown Stew Chicken, Jerk Pork, festival bread are my favorites, but everything I have tried from here is always good. The waitstaff is friendly, and knowledgeable about the food if you have questions about anything. The dining room is spacious, but a little run down. The music is a little loud for conversations, but not terribly so. The neighborhood isn't the best, but I haven't had any problem while there. They seem to do a lot of take out business, so if the area is a concern, you can get in and out quickly. The food more than makes up for any of its drawbacks.

Ate here last week while visiting Houston. I've only had brown stew chicken a couple of times before, and those were just average. This one here took my taste buds beyond what I expected. The vegetables tasted good, but the rice and peas were lacking in flavor. All in all the brown stew chicken is the headliner and didn't disappoint. Ate my food in the dining hall and it was very spacious in there. Seems like it's the place to be on the weekends at night.

Stopped in on a Friday around 2:30 pm and they were very busy. Even though there was a line, they quickly serviced everyone. This restaurant allows easy to-go orders and dinning in as options. I ordered a beef patty and the large curry goat plate. The beef patty was unremarkable, as it was likely store bought. I won’t complain too much because I was hungry and needed a little snack while I waited for my food lol. The curry goat plate comes with rice and peas, a veggie medley, and fried plantains. Everything was really good. The goat was tender and seasoned very well. I loved how they prepared the plantains as well. I will definitely be back. My only complaint would be the service. The young lady taking my order was rather rude. I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt, as they were very busy and she might have had a long day. If you like Jamaican food, this is the place for you.

I really like the food here. I’ve been here twice. I had oxtails w rice/peas and cabbage. I also ordered jerk chicken a La carte just to try it. There wasn’t any jerk sauce on the chicken but it was seasoned and cooked so well it wasn’t needed. My friend loves the beef patties and oxtails as well. It’s a 40 minute drive for me. But was well worth it. I just don’t understand why they have so much restaurant seating and a full bar. But it’s not utilized. We were the only ones dining in both times. The place could be packed if they added some entertainment or at least drink options.

First time eating at Cool Runnings and when I tell you the Food was amazing, service was fast and prices are very reasonable. I brought the large oxtail plate with peas and rice with cabbage and y’all it was more than enough food I ate on it that day and night. When I visit Houston again I will be returning!!! 100% recommended!!!!!!!!