Maroons

I promised a friend we'd go out for a late lunch and since we were in Chelsea we decided on Maroons located at 244 West 16th Street. Walking down a block full of beautifully preserved brownstones & storefront window displays, we arrived to the quaint spot and were quickly taken to our table. The decor was very minimal with the exception of the row of exquisite paintings adorning the exposed brick walls in the dining room. We browsed the menu and were excited to indulge in the Southern and Jamaican cuisine this spot boasts of. To avoid gluttony & wasted time being indecisive, we decided on a smorgasbord of appetizers including Baby Back Ribs, Garlic Shrimp, Mango Shrimp, Fried Catfish Fingers, Cod Fish Fritters, Crispy Yucca Puffs, and of course, their signature Macaroni & Three Cheeses. Shortly after we received our complimentary piece of cornbread (which was just OK!) our food was brought to us and was surprisingly under seasoned & very mediocre. Dishes prepared down South & in Jamaica, respectively, are usually bubbling with zest and flavor. Unfortunately Maroons didn't live up to that potential. Though the food was indeed very edible, it lacked that KICK (you know, like when you feel someone put their foot into the food they've made) leaving us feeling as though we've just eaten at an overpriced chain restaurant. This place doesn't seem to be as great as the owners make it out to be. If you honestly want some good finger-licking home cooked Southern food take a trip uptown to Harlem or if your taste buds crave a real Jamaican Dutch pot bubbling delight come to Brooklyn. I'm certain that you'll get a larger, well seasoned portion of food for half the price if you visit the local restaurants in these cultured neighborhoods. Maroons? Definitely not a favorite! But I'm not totally writing this place off as I've heard their drinks are pretty good.

...Ghost