Caribbean Spice

- 219 E Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283

For Arizonans seeking a genuine taste of the islands right in the heart of the Valley of the Sun, Caribbean Spice in Tempe stands out as a culinary destination. This locally owned Caribbean restaurant is celebrated for bringing the rich, aromatic, and bold flavors of Caribbean cuisine to the Arizona desert. It is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience that transports diners with traditional dishes, warm hospitality, and a menu deeply rooted in authentic island cooking traditions, including Guyanese and Jamaican influences, as often noted in the vibrant preparation of the meals.

The menu is a journey across the Caribbean, specializing in slow-cooked, intensely flavorful plates. Patrons often rave about the signature items, such as the tender Oxtail Stew and the fiery, yet balanced, Jerk Chicken. The preparation of the Jerk dishes is a highlight, where chicken, fish, or tofu is carefully marinated in a powerful spice blend—featuring thyme, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, scallions, garlic, and pepper—before being baked or grilled to perfection. This commitment to traditional spice and technique ensures an authentic experience for every customer, from long-time fans to first-time visitors who might have just moved to the state.

Beyond the world-famous jerk, the restaurant offers an incredible range of Curry dishes, which use a blend of East Indian spices to create rich, comforting meals. Options include Curry Goat, Curry Shrimp, and Curry Chicken, all of which can be enjoyed on their own or wrapped in Roti, the delightful East Indian flatbread. Customer testimonials frequently praise the savory depth of flavor, noting that the "curry and stewed chicken was delicious" with "just the right spice" and perfectly seasoned vegetables, making it a great "first meal" for those who've missed true Caribbean cooking.

Caribbean Spice caters to a variety of dining needs throughout the week, offering Lunch and Dinner options, as well as special weekend delights like the Caribbean Breakfast Specials served on Friday and Saturday only. These breakfast items, such as the traditional Saltfish & Bakes and Cornmeal Porridge, offer an authentic morning treat not commonly found elsewhere in the local Arizona food scene. Whether you are craving substantial Comfort food like Spicy Spare Ribs or a lighter fare of Small plates like Pholourie, this Tempe spot delivers a satisfying dose of island flavor.

Caribbean Spice is conveniently located in Tempe, making it an accessible spot for residents across the Southeast Valley, including Mesa, Chandler, and Phoenix. The restaurant's physical address is 219 E Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283, USA. Situated on a major Tempe thoroughfare, the location offers ease of access from surrounding neighborhoods and major highways.

As a local, independent establishment, the restaurant is focused on providing a smooth experience for all patrons. The property features a parking area shared with neighboring businesses, offering general convenience for driving visitors. Crucially, the establishment prioritizes comfort and compliance by ensuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, allowing for easy access for all guests. Furthermore, the provision of a Wheelchair accessible restroom demonstrates a commitment to inclusive dining for the entire Arizona community.

The setting is designed for a relaxed dining experience. While primarily focused on indoor seating, the availability of Outdoor seating provides a pleasant option for guests looking to enjoy their meal in the Arizona weather. Its prime location on a main road ensures it’s easy to find and integrate into your day's plans, whether you are running errands or specifically seeking out authentic Caribbean flavors.

The range of services at Caribbean Spice is structured to accommodate the diverse preferences of its Tempe and broader Arizona clientele, from quick pick-ups to planned events.

• Full-Service Dining: The restaurant offers a traditional Table service experience, allowing guests to sit, relax, and enjoy their meals in a friendly setting during both Lunch and Dinner hours.
• Takeout Convenience: Recognizing the busy schedules of local patrons, Takeout is a primary service option, allowing for quick retrieval of meals to enjoy at home or on the go.
• Event Catering: Caribbean Spice provides Catering services, making it an excellent choice for bringing the unique and vibrant flavors of the Caribbean to corporate events, parties, and family gatherings across the Phoenix metro area.
• Outdoor Dining: Guests have the option of comfortable Outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the mild Arizona evenings or a sunny afternoon meal.
• Specialty Breakfast: Exclusive Caribbean Breakfast Specials are offered on Friday and Saturday only, providing a rare local opportunity to enjoy authentic morning dishes.
• Group & Family Friendly: The establishment is considered Good for kids, offering a welcoming atmosphere for families to share the experience of Caribbean cuisine.
• Dessert and Sweet Treats: Patrons can finish their meal with a selection of Dessert items, including traditional Pineapple Tart, Mango Cheesecake, and Cassava Pone.
• Payment Flexibility: For convenience, the restaurant accepts common payment methods, including Credit cards and Debit cards.

The distinct features of Caribbean Spice center around its dedication to authentic island flavors, fresh ingredients, and a genuinely welcoming environment, making it a standout local favorite in the competitive Arizona restaurant scene.

• Authentic Jerk Seasoning: The most significant highlight is the use of a proprietary, traditional spice blend for the Jerk Chicken and other Jerk items (Fish, Tofu), which provides a rich, complex flavor profile that is truly authentic to the region.
• Variety of Specialties: Beyond Jerk, the menu boasts beloved Other Specialties like the savory, fall-off-the-bone Oxtail Stew and the classic Brown Stew Chicken, catering to diverse palates.
• Homemade Refreshments: A unique offering is the selection of homemade drinks, including the traditional, non-alcoholic Homemade Ginger Beer and Sorrel drink, which are highly popular and offer a true island beverage experience.
• Healthy & Vegetarian Options: The menu is consciously inclusive, featuring excellent Vegetarian options like Veggie Roti and the ability to substitute meat with Tofu in both Jerk and Curry dishes, offering healthy choices for all diners.
• Fresh Juices and Smoothies: The extensive Smoothies and Fresh Juices menu is a major draw, featuring natural, vibrant concoctions such as Kale Refresher and Mango Pineapple smoothies, perfect for the Arizona climate.
• Traditional Small Plates: The selection of Small plates and appetizers like Beef Patties and Jerk Wings are perfect for a quick snack or for sharing, giving guests a taste of multiple island favorites.
• Friendly Local Service: Customer reviews often highlight the "Super friendly front counter staff" and the overall accommodating service, contributing to a pleasant and positive dining experience.

To plan your visit, make a reservation, or inquire about catering, you can reach the Caribbean Spice team using the following contact details.

• Address: 219 E Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283, USA
• Phone Number: (480) 361-7445
• Mobile Phone: +1 480-361-7445

It is always a good practice to contact the restaurant directly regarding current hours of operation or for any specific planning needs, such as reserving space for a group or placing a large catering order for an event.

Choosing Caribbean Spice is an excellent decision for anyone in Arizona craving authentic, soulful Caribbean food that is both flavorful and made with passion. The restaurant provides a crucial cultural link, especially for those new to Arizona, like the customer from Maryland who described their meal as a "great 'first' meal" that perfectly satisfied a year-long craving for the cuisine.

What makes it truly worth choosing is the restaurant's specialization in dishes like the richly flavored Curry Goat, the supremely tender Oxtail Stew ($13.99), and the perfectly seasoned Jerk Chicken. These are not merely menu items; they are labor-intensive, traditional meals that require genuine culinary skill and dedicated preparation, which Caribbean Spice clearly delivers. The availability of diverse protein options, including chicken, fish, tofu, and goat, ensures that all preferences are honored.

Furthermore, the spot excels by offering unique elements that enhance the dining experience, such as the homemade Smoothies and Fresh Juices, providing healthy, vibrant alternatives to standard beverages. The effort put into offering appealing Vegetarian options also widens its appeal, ensuring no one is left out. While one review noted the food was simply "ok," the overwhelming sentiment celebrates the delicious, authentic spice and friendly service, confirming its status as a vital, high-quality purveyor of Caribbean flavor in Tempe, Arizona.

Caribbean Spice

219 E Baseline Rd, Tempe, AZ 85283, USA