Jerk Chicken at D’s Island Grill JA (Photo by Taylor Noel Photography)

Monday Munchies: Jerk Chicken & More at D’s Island Grill JA


January 20, 2025
By Matt Sterner

Monday Munchies is supported by Botanica.

Back in 2010, the black-owned family business began as a food truck before opening a brick-and-mortar at the corner of Fort Lowell Road and Country Club Road in 2013.

Some refer to D’s Island Grill JA (JA for Jamaica) as a secret island getaway. D’s owner Duwayne, aka “D,” grew up in Jamaica and learned to cook by helping his mother as a child. And, the colorful food truck, which still hits the streets of Tucson, is often on display in the parking lot at 3156 E. Fort Lowell Rd.

Oxtail Stew at D’s Island Grill JA (Photo by Taylor Noel Photography)

The menu features a hodgepodge of chicken, shrimp, pork, and fish prepared as curries, sandwiches, and more. Duwayne’s entrées are all gluten-free and include rice and peas and a choice of crunchy vinegar-based coleslaw or steamed vegetables.

During the winter — especially on days when the high is in the 50s here in the desert — a warm Jamaican stew can add a little pep in your step. Over at D’s, the Oxtail Stew is served with stewed vegetables and a large helping of Jamaican gravy. The tender meat goes well with the bell peppers.

These bell peppers also make an appearance in the Jerk Chicken with allspice in Duwayne’s peppery-sweet jerk sauce.

Jerk Chicken at D’s Island Grill JA (Photo by Taylor Noel Photography)

Both dishes bring a nice peppery heat that’s balanced by the tangy, refreshing coleslaw or a classic Jamaican drink. A side of rice ties it all together, letting the bold island flavors shine.

The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Monday – Thursday, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday – Saturday, and closed on Sunday.

D’s Island Grill JA is located at 3156 E. Fort Lowell Rd. and can be reached at (520) 861-2271. For more information, visit dsislandgrill.com.

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