Written by Kareem LaTouche
Sometimes when life gets too hectic you have to find a serene spot to relax, so I made my quest to east Portland.I stood on the manicured grass of Long Bay, a world away from the tourist-heavy hubs. Before me, the Caribbean Sea stretched out, its snow-capped waves a surfer’s delight, not a swimmer’s gentle lullaby. This wasn’t your typical postcard Jamaica. This was raw, untamed, and utterly captivating. And nestled on this coastline, I found Cover’s Bar & Grill, a story etched in wood, smoke, and sheer determination.
Quick Facts
Who is it for: Travelers seeking authentic Jamaican food and a rustic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
What it is NOT: A high-end, polished restaurant or a crowded tourist spot.
Tip: Arrive before sunset to enjoy the stunning ocean views and the ambiance.
What stands out: The unique, handcrafted décor.
What to carry: Cash (as card facilities may be limited), and a relaxed attitude to enjoy the laid-back vibe.
Must try food: The jerk fish, as recommended by Kenneth Cover himself.
What is it similar to: Cliff Hanger, Sea Cliff Resort.
Location: Long Bay, Portland, Jamaica.
Contact: 876-362-3590
A Man and His Vision
Kenneth Cover, the man behind the name, emerged from a rustic chill spot adjacent to the grill. He was a force of nature: dark-skinned, over six feet tall, and built with the strength of a man who’d worked with his hands. Dressed in a simple white t-shirt, blue shorts, and leather Crocs, he exuded an unpretentious energy. “Don’t mind my appearance, bossey,” his gravelled voice rumbled, “I have to get things ready for later.” This wasn’t a polished restaurateur; this was a craftsman, a dreamer, a man building his future, one pimento wood fire at a time.
Cover’s Bar & Grill is one of the unique Restaurants in Jamaica that is built on the vision of the owner. You can feel the authenticity.
“Right now I have to be doing everything, because I can’t afford a full-time staff. I also need to be more active on social media, because a lot of people don’t know that this place exists.” His words were honest, a reflection of the challenges of building a dream in a place where the crowds hadn’t yet discovered its charm.
As he spoke, the intoxicating scent of jerk pork and chicken, slow-cooking over pimento wood, wafted from the kitchen, a promise of the culinary delights to come. The wind, a constant companion, carried the smoky aroma across the property.
From Wrenches to Woodwork
Sitting on a uniquely handcrafted wooden bar stool, I learned Cover’s story. “I inherited my first profession because my father was a mechanic, but I wanted something else,” he declared. “I basically sold all my mechanic equipment to finance this dream. It was just in my heart to do and I don’t think I would be happy if I didn’t try it.” There’s a price to pay for chasing your dreams, and Cover understood that intimately.
“The land didn’t look anything like this, but I had a vision of how I wanted the outcome to be. So I applied my mechanical knowledge and set up parameter wires and a building that represented my creativity.” His ingenuity was evident in the details: driftwood seemingly floating on fine cable wires, a table carved from a tree trunk into the shape of an elephant, a primitive yet elegant aesthetic. The seating area, a blend of handcrafted wood and simple plastic chairs, overlooked the ocean, the product of his hard work. “It took a long time to get to this,” he stated firmly.
Trials by Fire, Triumphs by Heart
The night before his 2020 launch, disaster struck. Thieves broke in, a devastating blow. “Di ting hurt mi bredren. Because I put so much work into the place,” Cover’s voice lowered, his emotion still raw. “When I got the call, I was driving so fast that I passed the bar and by the time I slammed the brakes there was a skid mark for about 25 meters.” But Cover didn’t give up. He restocked, rebuilt, and moved forward.
He showed me the rustic seating area, a haven of tranquility overlooking the ocean. Wooden benches nestled among trees, hammocks swaying in the breeze, swings inviting you to relax. The dining area, stocked with board games and a full bar, offered a sense of community. The menu, primarily jerk pork, chicken, and sausage, held a special surprise: “You must try my jerk fish,” Cover insisted, his eyes twinkling.
Beyond the Plate
Cover’s Bar & Grill is more than just a restaurant; it’s a space for celebration. Picnics, birthday parties, outdoor gatherings – the possibilities are endless. And for those seeking a longer stay, the nearby Sea Cliff Resort offers the perfect retreat for relaxation.
As I left, I carried with me the scent of pimento smoke and the sound of the sea, but most of all, the unwavering spirit of Kenneth Cover. He’s a reminder that dreams, no matter how challenging, are worth pursuing. Kareem’s Quest predicts Cover’s Bar & Grill will be a popular destination in the future. It’s one of the unique Restaurants in Jamaica that is built on the owner’s passion. If you are looking for an authentic Jamaican experience, make sure to visit.
How long does it take to get to Cover’s Bar and Grill, from these central points:
Kingston (Norman Manley International Airport): 2 hours and 31 minutes
Montego Bay (Sangsters International Airport): 4 hours and 23 minutes
Ocho Rios: 2 hours and 46 minutes
Negril: 6 hours
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