5 Things to Drink in Jamaica

Adam Schop of NYC's Miss Lily's shares his wisdom for drinking on the Caribbean Island.

Jamaica's drinking culture reflects a blend of tradition, celebration, and local flavors. From the iconic rum to indigenous brews, the island's libations are deeply intertwined with its history and cultural diversity. Rum, often referred to as the "spirit of Jamaica," holds a special, though troubled, place in Jamaican identity. Jamaica has far more to offer beyond rum, however. Celebratory occasions, from lively reggae festivals to festive gatherings, are often punctuated by the sharing of drinks, creating a convivial atmosphere where music, dance, and toasting converge. Jamaica's drinking culture is not just about the beverages but the sense of unity and joyful camaraderie they foster.

Here are five Jamaican beverages to try, including one non-alcoholic option.

Beer

Jamaica is synonymous with Red Stripe, the quintessential crisp lager. Jamaicans also love stout, perhaps a surprising choice for the tropics. Guinness is popular here, though Schop prefers locally brewed Dragon Stout, from the producers of Red Stripe.

Ginger beer

“The Jamaican-made ones use cane sugar, not corn syrup, so they have a clean, natural flavor,” Schop says.

Rum

Overproof white rums like Wray & Nephew are often mixed with Ting, a Jamaican grapefruit soda. Explains Schop, “Local rum definitely has a, shall we say, ‘robust’ flavor, so that’s a great way to drink it.”

Related: Sip Rum from Jamaica’s Oldest (and First) Rum Distillery

Sorrel tea

Cooks steep dried hibiscus buds (called sorrel in Jamaica) with fresh ginger and sugar, then chill the tea overnight. They serve it with ice, a splash of soda water, and a squirt of lime. “It has a tart, lemony, astringent flavor that you can feel on the enamel of your teeth,” Schop says. “It’s so refreshing.”

Sea cat punch

“Sea cat” is Jamaican slang for octopus; the punch is made with the milky white liquid produced by boiling octopus, plus white rum, rum cream, peanuts, molasses, Supligen (a protein drink), and malt powder. Blended with ice, it becomes a thick, salty-sweet shake. Jamaican men swear it enhances virility; Schop swears it tastes “absolutely wretched.”

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