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Stush in the Bush Puts Jamaica on the Fine Dining Map of North America
Lifestyle
Stush in the Bush Puts Jamaica on the Fine Dining Map of North America
staff
September 27, 2025
Introduction
Jamaica is known worldwide for its vibrant culture, reggae rhythms, and golden beaches. But in recent years, the island has also been gaining recognition for its growing culinary scene. A prime example is “Stush in the Bush”, a one-of-a-kind farm-to-table dining experience located in the hills of St. Ann Parish. Recently, this hidden gem was ranked among North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, a recognition that celebrates not only its creative cuisine but also its commitment to sustainability and authentic Jamaican flavors.
What Makes Stush in the Bush Special?
Unlike traditional restaurants, Stush in the Bush blends fine dining with rustic, farm-to-table authenticity. Guests are invited into the heart of a 15-acre organic farm, where nearly every ingredient used in the dishes is grown, harvested, and prepared on-site. The restaurant is run by the dynamic duo Lisa and Chris Binns, who combine their passions for organic farming and gourmet cooking.
The name “Stush” comes from Jamaican slang meaning stylish or fancy, while “Bush” reflects the natural, earthy setting of the farm. Together, the concept creates an intimate culinary adventure where guests enjoy high-end, plant-forward meals surrounded by lush greenery and mountain views.
A Dining Experience Like No Other
Dining at Stush in the Bush is more than eating it is an immersive journey. Guests often describe it as a mix between fine dining, eco-tourism, and cultural storytelling.
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Farm Tour First – Before the meal, visitors take a guided tour of the farm, learning about sustainable farming practices, medicinal plants, and the story behind each ingredient.
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Plant-Based Creativity – The menu focuses heavily on vegetarian and vegan dishes, crafted with bold Jamaican flavors and international twists. For example, you might enjoy cassava flatbreads topped with fresh herbs, farm-grown vegetables turned into gourmet sauces, or artisanal sorbets made with tropical fruits.
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Slow Dining Philosophy – Meals are served in multiple courses, encouraging guests to relax, savor, and connect with the land.
Why This Recognition Matters
Being ranked among North America’s 50 Best Restaurants is a major milestone for Jamaica’s culinary landscape. Traditionally, top rankings in fine dining have been dominated by restaurants in major cities such as New York, Toronto, or Mexico City. Stush in the Bush’s inclusion proves that destination dining in the Caribbean is reaching world-class levels.
This recognition highlights:
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Culinary Diversity :
Jamaican cuisine is not only jerk chicken and patties; it also includes innovative vegetarian and gourmet dishes.
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Sustainability : Stush in the Bush champions organic farming, zero-waste principles, and eco-conscious dining.
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Tourism Boost : Food tourism is growing, and travelers increasingly seek authentic local dining experiences.
The Founders’ Vision
Chris Binns, originally from Jamaica, is the farmer who ensures the land thrives with organic crops. His partner, Lisa, originally from New York, brings her passion for fine dining, creativity, and storytelling to the table. Together, they built Stush in the Bush as a labor of love a vision of living close to the earth while celebrating the elegance of food.
Their work not only feeds guests but also inspires the local community by showing the value of sustainable farming and culinary innovation.
The Menu Highlights
While the menu changes depending on the season and available produce, a few popular dishes include:
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Cassava flatbread with herb toppings
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Pumpkin and ginger soup with coconut cream
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Vegan “Stush Burger” made from locally sourced beans and grains
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Sorrel (hibiscus) beverages and homemade preserves
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Exotic fruit sorbets made from mango, soursop, or passionfruit
This commitment to freshness ensures that every visit offers a unique and memorable culinary experience.
A Must-Visit for Travelers
For travelers heading to Jamaica, Stush in the Bush is not just a meal but a destination in itself. It attracts food lovers, eco-conscious tourists, and adventure seekers who want to go beyond the beach resorts and experience authentic island life.
Reservations are required, as seating is limited and the dining experience is designed for small, intimate groups. This exclusivity makes it even more appealing to international travelers looking for something special.
The Future of Caribbean Fine Dining
With Stush in the Bush earning international recognition, more Caribbean restaurants may follow its lead. The award sets a precedent, showing that the region’s food culture deserves a place on the global stage. For Jamaica, it signals a new chapter in tourism where culinary excellence joins music, beaches, and culture as a top attraction.
Conclusion
Stush in the Bush is more than just a restaurant it is a celebration of Jamaican culture, sustainability, and fine dining artistry. Its ranking among North America’s 50 Best Restaurants is a proud achievement for Jamaica and a sign of the Caribbean’s growing influence in the global culinary world. For anyone who loves food, travel, and authentic cultural experiences, a visit to this hidden gem in the hills of St. Ann is a must.