Came here on a whim during our Salem trip, and so glad we did! Some of the best mediterranean food I’ve had in a while. I think my order was called the sampler plate, it was absolutely delicious. My family enjoyed their dishes as well. Service was friendly. Interior is clean and comfy, especially the booth seating.
Overview
Ray Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine, located at 90 Lafayette St Unit 1B, Salem, MA 01970, is a one-of-a-kind dining experience that brings together the rich flavors of Mediterranean and Jamaican cuisines. Whether you're craving the zest of the Mediterranean or the bold, fiery taste of Jamaica, Ray Adea's offers an exciting fusion that promises to satisfy all your culinary cravings.
Walking into this cozy spot, you’re instantly greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of dishes that promise to transport you to different parts of the world. The menu is as diverse as it is delightful, featuring a unique blend of both Mediterranean and Jamaican flavors. You’ll find vibrant salads and grilled meats from the Mediterranean side, as well as hearty jerk chicken and curried goat representing the Jamaican influence. It’s a mix that might sound unusual at first, but trust me, it works in ways that will surprise you.
For starters, one of the most popular items on the menu is the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Skewers. Marinated to perfection, these skewers are juicy and smoky with just the right amount of heat, giving you a true taste of Jamaica right here in Salem. But the experience doesn’t stop there-Ray Adea’s Mediterranean offerings, such as the Grilled Lamb Kofta, are also a hit. The lamb is tender and flavorful, perfectly paired with a tangy yogurt sauce and fresh vegetables, providing a cool contrast to the spiciness of some of the Jamaican dishes.
One thing that really sets Ray Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine apart is the authenticity. Ray Adea, the owner and chef, takes pride in using traditional cooking techniques from both Mediterranean and Jamaican kitchens. His dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that each dish is full of bold, authentic flavors. Whether you’re enjoying the zesty lemon and olive oil dressing on the Mediterranean salads or savoring the slow-cooked curry goat, it’s clear that Ray has perfected these recipes with years of experience and passion for food.
The restaurant itself is casual and inviting, making it a great choice for a laid-back lunch or dinner with friends and family. The service is warm and attentive, with staff who are happy to guide you through the menu and offer recommendations based on your preferences. The intimate setting is perfect for enjoying a meal without feeling rushed, allowing you to savor the incredible flavors each dish has to offer.
When it comes to dessert, Ray Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine continues to impress. The Baklava is a sweet, flaky delight that transports you straight to the heart of the Mediterranean, while the Rum Cake is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of Jamaican tradition. Both desserts are the perfect end to a meal that’s both filling and satisfying.
If you're in the Salem area, Ray Adea's Mediterranean & Jamaican Cuisine is not just a place to eat; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget. From the carefully crafted dishes to the warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s clear why locals and visitors alike keep coming back for more. The fusion of Mediterranean and Jamaican cuisines might be unusual, but it’s this combination that gives the restaurant its unique charm. Whether you're a fan of Mediterranean or Jamaican food (or both!), Ray Adea’s offers something for everyone. So, if you're in the area, be sure to drop by and explore a menu that’s as diverse as it is delicious.
Good to know
From the business
âś“ Identifies as Black-ownedService options
âś“ Delivery âś“ Takeaway âś“ Dine-inHighlights
âś“ Live music âś“ Serves local specialty âś“ SportPopular for
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Solo diningAccessibility
âś“ Wheelchair-accessible entrance âś“ Wheelchair-accessible seating âś“ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
âś“ Healthy options âś“ Quick bite âś“ Vegetarian optionsDining options
âś“ Lunch âś“ Dinner âś“ Catering âś“ Dessert âś“ Seating âś“ Table serviceAmenities
âś“ ToiletAtmosphere
âś“ Casual âś“ TrendyCrowd
âś“ Family friendly âś“ Groups âś“ LGBTQ+ friendly âś“ Tourists âś“ Transgender safe space âś“ University studentsPlanning
âś“ Accepts reservationsPayments
âś“ Credit cards âś“ Debit cards âś“ NFC mobile payments âś“ Credit cardsChildren
âś“ Good for kids âś“ High chairsParking
âś“ Paid street parking âś“ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
10/10 completely recommend this shop for delicious fresh hot food. Ordered the sampler plate for myself, totally vegan fresh and delicious. The hummus tastes homemade and fresh. The hubby ordered Jamaican chicken plate and the jerk sauce is so good we licked the plate clean.
My fiancé and I were craving oxtail and decided to order from this Jamaican restaurant—and let me just say, the food did not disappoint! The oxtail was tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. Everything we tried was seasoned so well and packed with flavor. I forgot to grab the chef’s name, but whoever was behind the food that night deserves a big shoutout. You can tell there’s real love and skill going into the cooking here. We’ll definitely be ordering again—highly recommend if you’re looking for authentic, delicious Jamaican food! I was not able to take pictures but we will be back and let me not forget my beef patty- I ate it for lunch and it was perfect!
Great vibes, and the jerk chicken was full of flavor. The staff are super friendly and welcoming. They make fresh juice, the strawberry ginger is amazing! Found out they host comedy night too. Definitely coming back and bringing friends.
This place is excellent! The lunch special is solid - the jerk chicken is delicious and tender, served bone-in and chopped into 3-4 pieces, over peas and rice and some fried plantains - and the rest of the menu has something for everyone. I almost always get two beef and cheese patties to go, they're always warm and flavorful, and they have a bit of spice too, talk about comfort food! Ray himself is usually behind the register when I go in, he has such a warm and welcoming personality and he's made his spot a comfortable, convenient location for delicious food that is really hard to find. On top of that he's willing to chat for a bit and he has a great memory, making each visit feel more and more comfortable and personable. Highly recommended, even if you're just visiting!
Stopped in for a quick lunch. They have a daily lunch special 11a-3p. Got the curry chicken which came with rice, steamed veggies, a fried plantain, and a drink. Awesome service, delicious food, great deal! I’ll definitely be back.
Absolutely delicious food. So much flavour and such big portions! First time here and I can’t wait to come back already :). The Jamaican sheriff is putting his heart and soul into this food fr! 10/10. The plantains were HEAVENLY omg.