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Welcome to St. James - Modern Caribbean

St. James - Modern Caribbean redefines the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine with a contemporary twist. Situated in the heart of Washington, DC, this culinary gem offers an inviting atmosphere and exceptional service that elevate the dining experience. Guests can savor an array of thoughtfully crafted dishes, such as jerk wings and cassava fritters, all while enjoying a selection of inventive cocktails. The fusion of tradition and modernity resonates throughout the menu, appealing to both Caribbean food enthusiasts and newcomers alike. With each plate showcasing authentic flavors and artistic presentation, St. James is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of culture and taste that beckons return visits.

St. James - Modern Caribbean: Reviews & Ratings

Elizabeth Kendig
Elizabeth Kendig

Our trip to DC to watch the live History Hyenas podcast at the Warner Theatre was made that much better by our stop at St James for dinner. My husband and I absolutely loved every dish and drink we tried! If we had more time, we would have tried other drinks and ordered dessert as well. I did read through some of the lower reviews before we decided to choose this restaurant for dinner. To me, it seems like most of those unsatisfied patrons were concerned with the prices. Please keep in mind, DC has a newer initiative to help pay their wait staff actual living wages. If you can't afford to eat out, don't! Leaving bad reviews for an establishment like this blows my mind. We will definitely return on our next trip to DC!

Todd Pittman
Todd Pittman

We had the pleasure of celebrating Valentine's Day at The St. James, and it exceeded our expectations in every way. The culinary experience was top-notch, with each dish expertly prepared and presented. What truly stood out, however, was the exceptional service. From the warm welcome at the door to the attentive care throughout our meal, the staff went above and beyond to ensure our evening was special. A particularly impressive moment was when my wife accidentally dropped her knife - our waiter was swift to respond, retrieving it before she could even react. The combination of outstanding food and impeccable service has won us over, and we can't wait to return and explore the rest of the menu.

Lindsey Webb
Lindsey Webb

This place is a solid 5-star experience from start to finish. Everything exceeded our expectations. The service was top-notch, with everyone from the host to the servers being friendly and attentive. We were really excited because we love exploring new foods, cultural experiences, and luxury dining—and this spot didn’t disappoint. It had the perfect balance of an amazing atmosphere, exceptional service, and a true taste of the cuisine. As fans of Caribbean food, we were impressed by how authentic the dishes were, even in such a modern setting. The vibes were fantastic, the music set the perfect tone, and every dish we tried was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to go back. Whether you’re dining solo, with friends, or on a date, it’s a great choice. Pro tip: definitely make a reservation!

Anya Remy
Anya Remy

I never pass up the opportunity to eat Trinidadian food. Born and raised in Trinidad, I must say I thoroughly enjoyed my first time dining at St. James Modern Caribbean. The drinks were PHENOMENAL, the food was flavorful and made me feel like I was at home. Definitely a 10/10 experience for me. The bar Director, Joseph Grimshaw, was so knowledgeable in his craft, he made two of the most delicious cocktails I've ever had. The entire restaurant is beautiful, I especially love the decor and the stairs. There's artwork hung around the restaurant that I couldn't stop taking photos of. Definitely adding St. James to my list of favorites. Here's what l ordered: Jerk Wings Aloo and Channa Pie Cassava Fritters Brisket Platter w/ Macaroni Pie & Plantain Drinks: Watermelon Wav legal Paloma

Delali Mensah Jamison
Delali Mensah Jamison

We decided to have our 11th year wedding anniversary dinner at St.James Modern Caribbean restaurant in DC and the experience was absolutely amazing! We opted for outdoor sitting because it was a beautiful evening but inside of the restaurant is also gorgeous. The food and drinks were exquisite. Our server Josh, was kind, attentive and gave us wonderful recommendations. My husband loves meat and I am vegan so eating together is often a challenge but this experience was seamless. They have something for everyone and the food is so delicious. Thank you for a great anniversary experience and we will be back!!!

Onyx Goins
Onyx Goins

Went for an anniversary dinner and the spot was nice, quaint without feeling crowded, perfect for a casual dinner. I had the crab fritters for an appetizer, pork chop for my entree, and the rum cake with banana ice cream for dessert and each item was so tasty! The portions were generous but not overbearing where you left feeling stuffed. The staff were very attentive and kind.

SCG
SCG

St. James blew us away. We came in for a date night and left already planning our next visit. The service was warm and attentive, and the food was out of this world. We ordered the oxtails, macaroni pie, sweet plantains, and the duck. The oxtails were rich, tender, and full of flavor. They fell apart with just a fork and paired perfectly with the coconut rice and pigeon peas. The duck was beautifully cooked with a deep, savory flavor, and the dhal puree underneath added a creamy, unexpected balance. But the real standout was the macaroni pie. We can’t stop thinking about it. It had this perfect crust on top and a cheesy, slightly spiced center that was way more satisfying than any mac and cheese we've ever had. It's reason enough to come back on its own. The vibe of the place felt alive but still relaxed. You can tell a lot of thought goes into both the food and the overall experience. Highly recommend for anyone looking for bold flavors and something a little different in DC.

Rob L
Rob L

Wow, what an amazing find here in DC! Started with some of their fantastic rum cocktails and orders of Jerk Wings and the Cassava fritters. Love the jerk wing flavor, but the Cassava fritters were amazing along with the sauce. Then we had the Brisket Platter which was amazing, but 2 apps shared meant I couldn't finish. The spice rub and sauce were terrific. Mac n bake was damn good. My partner had the new Crab n Dumplings, really darn good!

Location

Welcome to St. James - Modern Caribbean, a vibrant culinary oasis located in the heart of Washington, DC. Situated at 2017 14th St NW, this establishment is redefining Caribbean cuisine, offering a contemporary twist on traditional dishes that burst with flavor and authenticity. Whether you're a local or a visitor, St. James invites you to embark on a gastronomic journey that highlights the richness of Caribbean culture through its delightful offerings.

From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a warm, inviting atmosphere adorned with beautiful decor and artwork that reflects the spirit of the Caribbean. The attention to detail is evident, creating a unique backdrop for a memorable dining experience. St. James is not just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of flavor, creativity, and culture.

Menu Highlights

  • Appetizers - The menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering appetizers that are sure to whet your appetite. Try the Grilled Octopus for a tender, smoky delight, or enjoy the Callaloo Soup, a comforting blend of pureed spinach, chilies, and coconut milk topped with fresh crab meat.
  • Medium Plates - For the main course, the Oxtails steal the show, marinated and braised to perfection, served with fragrant coconut rice. The Pork Ribs with roasted garlic jus and smoked pineapple is equally compelling, promising a rich flavor profile that pays homage to classic Caribbean cooking.
  • Desserts - Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the Pone, a delectable cassava, pumpkin, and coconut cake drizzled with coconut cream glaze, or the Molten Chocolate Cake, which is a chocolate lover's dream.

One of the standout features of St. James is its commitment to exceptional service. Guests have raved about the attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure every dining experience is special. As Elizabeth Kendig remarked, the warmth and hospitality truly elevate the dining experience, making you feel welcomed and valued.

Drinks play a pivotal role in the dining experience at St. James. With a skilled bar staff, you can expect to find refreshing cocktails that complement the robust flavors of the food. Anya Remy’s glowing review of the cocktails crafted by the Bar Director, Joseph Grimshaw, captures the essence of the bar’s dedication to quality and creativity.

Why Visit St. James?

  • If you're seeking an authentic taste of Caribbean cuisine reimagined for the modern palate, St. James is your destination.
  • It's perfect for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a meal with friends.
  • The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and an inviting ambiance makes it a dining experience worth savoring.

In conclusion, St. James - Modern Caribbean is more than just a restaurant; it’s a delightful escape that celebrates the flavors, culture, and hospitality of the Caribbean. So, gather your friends or plan a romantic evening, and prepare for a dining experience that will delight your taste buds and leave you coming back for more.