Yanni's Caribbean Restaurant and Takeaway for Authentic Goat Curry

Located just by the Borough Parade Car Park and directly opposite Little Waitrose, Yanni’s Caribbean Restaurant and Takeaway offers a true taste of the Caribbean right in the heart of the Borough Parade open-air shopping centre. We were here for curried goat, a curry we have developed a taste for thanks to our friends and love for curry.

The double-unit space offers an open-plan layout that feels welcoming and relaxed, perfect for a casual yet memorable dining experience. On one side is the restaurant area with canteen styled seating i.e. long tables and benches. While the other, a small grocery area selling imported food stuff and the ordering counter if you are there for takeaways.

What We Had

We ordered the Saltfish Fritters from the starter menu, a pair of perfectly crispy fritters packed with the rich, salty goodness of saltfish, making a great appetiser to share. While it is from the starter menu, we requested that we have it together with our mains as sides. It was not as we expected. We were hoping for crispy batter with saltish but it was neither crispy or taste of saltfish. That is to say, the fritters were not so well seasoned and was more batter than fish. We couldn’t really judge the authenticity of this dish as we haven’t really tried them anywhere else.

The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the Caribbean Curry Goat, served on the bone for maximum flavor. The goat was tender, succulent, and rich with bold, aromatic spices that sang with every bite.

For our mains, we both went for the Caribbean Curry Goat (on the bone), served with a choice of coleslaw, steamed vegetables, or salad. We opted for coleslaw on one plate and steamed vegetables on the other. Although a little small for our taste, the curried goat was incredibly tender, with the meat falling off the bone effortlessly. The rich, spiced gravy was deeply flavourful, perfectly balanced with the brown rice with beans and vegetable served alongside. The coleslaw added a creamy, refreshing contrast, while the steamed vegetables provided a healthy, light side to balance the richness of the curry. Our only complain is the size of the coleslaw. One would wish there is more of them. But, the steamed vegetable side served alongside the rice and curry is a good portion. It was also unlike your standard plain steamed vegetable but the spiced variety that made it more wholesome with added flavours.

Ambiance and Service

The restaurant’s clean, modern and open layout offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere, enhanced by the warmth and friendliness of the staff. The place was brightly lit as well as getting plenty of natural light from the big windows up front. Those long benches and tables looked like they were custom made for the place with wooden finish tops and galvanised pipe legs. Another feature of the place is the Jamaican flags in the decor as well as little flags featured on the table. The service was not only attentive but genuinely welcoming, adding to the overall positive experience. The team here makes you feel right at home, offering recommendations and ensuring your visit is enjoyable from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

What truly sets Yanni’s apart, beyond the exceptional curry goat, is the genuine and friendly service. The staff made us feel right at home, checking in without being intrusive and offering helpful recommendations. The open-plan layout adds to the casual and vibrant atmosphere, making it a great spot for both quick takeaways and relaxed dining in.

Yanni’s Caribbean Restaurant and Takeaway delivers authentic, hearty Caribbean cuisine with bold flavors and generous portions. The curried goat is a standout dish, with its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and perfectly spiced gravy. The saltfish fritters were a delightful starter, and the sides of coleslaw and steamed vegetables complemented the meal wonderfully.

Yannis Caribbean Saltfish Fritter Portrait

Yannis Caribbean Goat Curry Coleslaw Portrait

Yannis Caribbean Curry Goat Top Down Steam Veg Portrait

What’s Next

Based on glowing reviews from other patrons, the jerk pork and oxtail also come highly recommended, and the consistent praise for the friendly staff makes this spot a must-visit. We will definitely return to try the oxtail and jerk pork, something the people we got to know at the next table ordered. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Yanni’s is a gem that will have you planning your next visit before you’ve finished your first meal. Now if I can just remember what those refreshing red we ordered, something from the region. If you know, please leave us a comment below.