If you were a crab lover, this was a spot you tried, as it used to be lined with crab vendors, who have been honing their skills for decades. Kareemsquest.com was told that most persons here were taught how to cook crab by their parents or community mothers, who lived in and around the area.
The first obstacle
The spot is nationally recognised for its food and was at the centre of conflict in 2015, when they were temporarily relocated by the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Council. The act was presumably done because, then President of the United States of America, Barack Obama, was scheduled to visit the National Heroes Park, which is a stone throw away, and is the interred site of the Jamaican heroes.
Anxiety and thoughts of doom rested on the heads of the vendors, as they were accustomed to hearing empty promises from politicians before. The relocation was temporary and they were back at their stomping ground soon after, however no major upgrade took place.
This came in March 2022, when vendors were given booths and an overall facelift to make the venue appear lively and uniform. This is very similar to what can be seen at Scott’s Cove at the border of St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland. There is also a designated seating area for customers, who want to eat their food and lime. In the video below Day Girl delves into the history of the location and how it has become such a famous spot.
Another messy issue
On October 5, 2023, a shocking incident at Heroes Circle in Kingston left the public in disbelief. A viral video that circulated on social media showed what appeared to be unsanitary activity by a woman at the popular food spot known as ‘Crab Circle’. This incident prompted the Kingston and St. Andrew Public Health Department to take swift action, resulting in the closure of the stalls operated by crab vendors in the area.
The video quickly gained traction on social media platforms, sparking outrage and significant condemnation from the public. The incident raised questions about the hygiene standards and practices followed by the crab vendors at ‘Crab Circle’.
Rebuilding Trust and Restoring Faith in Crab Vendors
The closure of the crab stalls had a significant impact on the vendors, many of whom depended on their businesses at Heroes Circle for their livelihoods.
In the wake of the closure, the crab vendors have been working tirelessly to rebuild trust and restore faith in their offerings. They have embraced stringent hygiene practices, showed vested interest in training, and improved the overall cleanliness of their stalls. The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC) has undertaken a project to build sanitary conveniences at the food location.
Vendors will also now be required to register with the KSAMC, in order to operate at the location.
The spot is scheduled to reopen in late 2023, once all the required hygienic measures are met.
The closure of ‘Crab Circle’ was a wake-up call not only for the vendors but also for food vendors at other locations. It served as a reminder of the critical importance of food safety and hygiene in the food industry.
Quick Facts
Who is it for: food lovers, budget travellers and Adventurers.
What it is NOT: A fancy dining restaurant or a place to carry a picky eater.
Tip: If you are not a fan of pepper, avoid eating the crab.
Food items served: crab, roasted and boiled corn, roasted yam and saltfish, as well as soup.
Must try food: Roast corn and crab.
What is it similar to: The fun-loving nature of the vendors reminds me of the vendor Angella.
Location: Heroes Circle, Kingston
