By Victoria Jonas
If you’re craving something Haitian, then you must indulge in Haiti’s most loved dishes. These classic Haitian cuisines are far from ordinary. When you are in the Boston area, these are the best places to satisfy your appetite.
La Belle Créole Cuisine
473 River Street, Mattapan; 617-696-0129
Menu Pick: LALO Dish
The LALO dish originates from Artibonite, Haiti. It has a dark, rich leafy flavor and a robust mouthful of spices. La Belle Créole Cuisine was founded in 2016. This restaurant provides quality and authentic Caribbean cuisine at a low cost.
From the Restaurant: La Belle Créole Cuisine “Where great food meets the whole body.”
792 Washington St, Dorchester Center; 617-265-8171
Menu Pick: Fried Red Snapper
The Fried Red Snapper is fresh fish paired with plantains or macaroni. LaLa Caribbean Restaurant was founded in 2005. This restaurant is a family business that serves authentic Haitian cuisine.
From the Restaurant: “LaLa’s recipe is unique and transformative but never strays away from Caribbean roots. We’re proud to provide our community a taste of Haiti.”
1158 River St, Hyde Park; 617-910-3203
Menu Pick: Griot Platter
The Griot Platter is fried pork chunks simmered until tender, then browned to perfection. It is served with rice and beans, salad and plantains. Farah’s Cafe Restaurant was selected as the Best Haitian Restaurant by the Haitian American Business Expo, Inc in 2017.
From the Restaurant: Farah’s Cafe Restaurant “If you like Caribbean food,we make it hot!”
288 Broadway, Somerville; 617-625-6255
Menu Pick: Stewed Red Snapper
The Stewed Red Snapper is fresh fish stewed in a créole spicy sauce. It is garnished with onions, green and red peppers. Pikliz International opened its doors in March 2016. This restaurant was named after a condiment that incorporates carrots, pickled cabbage, seasonings and scotch bonnet pepper native to Haiti.
From the Restaurant: Pikliz International Kitchen “The Freshest Caribbean Cuisine in Town. A Fusion of Spices and Culture.”
41 Bow St, Everett; 617-294-2390
Menu Pick: Macaroni Gratine
The Macaroni Gratine is baked cheesy macaroni paired with fried plantains and salad. Not only does La Perle serve Caribbean cuisine, it is also a space for late-night events featuring DJs, dancing and cocktails.
From the Restaurant: La Perle Caribbean Restaurant “Serving the finest Haitian cuisine.”