From our empirical evidence, we’ve found that when it comes to food, especially during Carnival, it’s usually best to be guided by your palate.  Incidentally, our palates seem to have some pretty exacting standards.

We’re not surprised, then, that we were led – and now we’re leading you – to Jaffa at the Oval.  This new installment at the newly renovated wing of the Queen’s Park Oval oozes a special blend of sophistication and charm – a blend that, along with the ridiculously extensive wine selection, glides viscously along the sophisticated and charming throat that is your life.  Grab a date then grab a table (but make a reservation) and get ready to have your world rocked.  By the way, like most high-end restaurants, you’ll find a private room (the ‘Maiden’) available for, well… private things – and dining.

The principal chefs behind Jaffa are the award-winning and internationally-trained Joe Brown (of Solimar fame), Khalid Mohammed and Paul Mowser, with the young, up-and-coming Jason Huggins at the proverbial helm.  Sanguine and sapient, these guys know food.  The trade off is:  you know how to eat.  Show off this prowess when you start with the Red Thai Curry Mussels straight out of New Zealand, then move swiftly to your main course of Grilled Salmon marinated in Sake.  Dessert in this high-ceilinged, Grecian-inspired fine diner will be the Apple and Pear Streusel, baked in the natural juices and served under a crunchy streusel topping with cinnamon-spiced ice cream.  Now, exhale.

The night can only go down from here.

Jaffa at the Oval | Level 2, Queen’s Park Oval, 94 Tragarete Road, St. Clair, Trinidad | 868-622-OVAL (6825)