A&E

Big Jerk offers big Caribbean flavors

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Big Jerk’s ribs and chicken combo plate.
Photo: Christopher DeVargas

As temperatures continue to rise, island flavors become more and more tempting, so Big Jerk couldn’t have opened its first brick-and-mortar spot at a better time. The popular food truck has landed a sturdy home in a strip mall at Silverado Ranch and Bermuda. Upon a recent Sunday visit, the traffic flow of orders—both takeout and dine-in—was constant.

Advertised as “the nicest jerks in Vegas,” Big Jerk boasts authentic tastes of the Caribbean—and the tastes lean heavily towards Jamaica. It’s evidenced in the patties ($4) served as appetizers—savory pies, filled with ground and spiced chicken or beef, seafood or vegetables, that are big enough to be entrees. Throw a little of the house-made jerk sauce on there and you’re in business.

Get the most bang for your buck with the combo plates ($15-$17) featuring pork ribs and chicken. Jerk spices and smoky flavors permeate the tender meats, which retain a necessary char on the exterior for a textural difference and added flavor. Choosing among sides can be difficult. Rice and peas are classic, but the zesty mac and cheese is tough to beat. Then there are sweet plantains—fried and chewy, the way maduros are supposed to be.

Cool off with a house-made pineapple ginger juice, and you worry about the weather so much. Everything will be irie.

BIG JERK 430 E. Silverado Ranch Blvd., 702-427-5267. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Tags: Dining, Food
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