Elevated Caribbean tasting menu w/ chef engagement. Unforgettable flavors, vibrant atmosphere. Must-try for foodies.
Bryan Kim reviews Kabawa, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant in the East Village, praising its fun atmosphere and unique fine dining approach with dishes like jerk duck sausage and braised goat.
Sonal Shah reviews Bar Kabawa, an East Village spot where rum cocktails and Caribbean patties fuel a lively party atmosphere, praising its creative drinks and flavorful snacks.
Kabawa offers a unique Caribbean fine dining experience in the East Village, helmed by Barbadian Chef Paul Carmichael. The restaurant provides an interactive atmosphere with an open kitchen and a tasting menu that blends traditional recipes with modern precision. Dishes like roti, Jamaican pepper shrimp, and slow-cooked goat are celebrated for their elevated flavors and presentation, making it a standout for Caribbean cuisine.
Kabawa serves an elevated Caribbean tasting menu, drawing praise for its unique flavors and sophisticated presentation. Standout dishes include the roti platter, Jamaican pepper shrimp, and slow-cooked goat. While most feedback is positive, some diners have noted the Chuleta Can Can dish as being excessively fatty, advising others to avoid it.
"Highly recommended dishes include the goat curry, pepper shrimp, and the roti platter. The coconut turnover is also frequently praised as an exceptional dessert."
Customers generally have a very positive view of Kabawa, praising its innovative Caribbean cuisine, vibrant atmosphere, and engaging service. While some find it pricey, the overall experience is frequently described as exceptional and worth the cost.
Important Note
The Chuleta Can Can dish has received mixed reviews, with some finding it excessively fatty.
"This user reiterates their positive opinion of Kabawa, calling it '2nd Kabawa'."
Positive"Kabawa is enthusiastically recommended."
Positive"A question is posed asking for recommendations on what to order at Kabawa."
Neutral"Kabawa is highly recommended for its 'mind blowing, delicious food' and a great 'vibe' that provides an escape, making the dining experience memorable."
Positive"The user highlighted pepper shrimp and goat as the best dishes at Kabawa. They agreed with the sentiment that the restaurant is slightly overpriced but still enjoyed their meal."
Neutral"Kabawa is recommended."
Positive"Kabawa is recommended."
Positive"Kabawa in the East Village is recommended as a Caribbean prix fixe restaurant."
Positive"This user found Kabawa to be good, but not particularly special, contrasting it with Bar Kabawa which they love."
Neutral"This user stated that Kabawa was great and is on their list to try again."
Positive"This user stated that Kabawa was "lights out" and its menu could support multiple repeat visits within a week."
Positive"This user simply mentioned "Kabawa" as a highly recommended restaurant."
Positive"Kabawa is mentioned without further comment."
Neutral"The user expresses strong affection for Kabawa, recommending it for those seeking Caribbean flavors."
Positive"Responding to a mention of 'Kabawa', this user stated it's probably the best goat they've had, emphasizing the insane amount of spices used."
Positive"This user simply mentioned 'kabawa' as a goat dish recommendation."
Positive"Kabawa is an excellent restaurant that aligns with the dad's preferences, and sitting at the counter allows for interaction with the kitchen staff, which might interest a foodie."
Positive"While Kabawa was good, the bread course was the most memorable part, and it might not be worth the price."
Neutral"Kabawa is a great choice, and sitting at the bar offers a view of the kitchen's activity."
Positive"The commenter found the menu for Kabawa to look very good."
Positive