Rhythm & Spice

Rhythm & Spice specialises in freshly cooked Jamaican food that has been marinated overnight to bring out authentic flavours. Run by couple Lecia and Orville, who both grew up on the Caribbean island of Jamaica before moving to the UK. Chef Orville has over 20 years experience in the industry, so they understand exactly what’s needed to deliver dishes they describe as “flavourful and comforting”. Bringing a mixture of exotic spices, tropical ingredients, and decades of experience working in restaurants, their operation is centrally located in Levenshulme, and a real asset to the area. A passionate and welcoming place run by people who love what they do. 

Focused on serving traditional Jamaican tastes, the key to Rhythm & Spice’s success is the heart that goes into it. “We are proud of what we do and take pride in providing the best,” says Lecia, and it’s hard to disagree. Jerk chicken is cooked over a charcoal grill, how it should be done, which is one of the real winners here, although the choice is broad without overwhelming. Curried goat, oxtail, peppered steak, chicken soup with dumplings, fried or stewed chicken, fried dumplings, mac & cheese, ackee & saltfish – national dish of the recipe’s homeland. Not to mention the now legendary Yam, boiled banana and dumplings, described by none-other than Usain Bolt as “a goer”. Or how about the escovitched seabass? There really is something to suit every palate.

Specials such as freshly made patties, warming soups, sweet potato and chickpeas curried, and a combination deal offering a full meal and soft drink for £6 Monday to Friday are also highlights. Don’t miss the Pineapple Punch, then, a sweet and very distinctive concoction which is, to put it mildly, moreish. Meat is all Halal, and like the fish, sourced from suppliers nearby. It’s also worth noting Rhythm & Spice is available for private functions, if you want all this to yourselves.