Ashley Cross has gained something pretty special this summer
If you’ve been wondering where Jerk Shak has gone… we’ve got good news.
While Cynthia is no longer serving her incredible Caribbean food from The Scott Arms, she’s back for the summer with a brand-new pop-up in Ashley Cross – and, trust us, you’ll want to make a beeline for it.
For anyone who’s eaten at Jerk Shak before, you’ll know exactly why people keep coming back. And if you’ve never tried it? This is your sign.
One thing that definitely hasn’t changed is the food. Cynthia is still serving up the authentic Jamaican dishes that have built such a loyal following over the years, and after one bite you’ll understand exactly what all the fuss is about.
She’s thrilled to be spending the summer in Ashley Cross and, like the rest of us, is keeping everything crossed for plenty of sunshine. After all, good weather, good company and incredible Caribbean food are a pretty unbeatable combination.
One of the things we love most about Jerk Shak isn’t just what’s on the plate – it’s the people behind it. Cynthia’s passion shines through in every dish, and it’s lovely to see the whole family getting involved. There’s a real community feel around the pop-up; you’re greeted with a smile, made to feel welcome and served food that’s clearly cooked with pride. It feels less like grabbing a takeaway and more like being invited over for dinner.
So… what did we order?
There was never going to be just one dish.
First up was the Jerk Chicken with Rice & Peas, and wow.
Served on the bone, the chicken was unbelievably tender, juicy and absolutely packed with that rich, smoky jerk seasoning. It had just the right amount of heat without overpowering the incredible blend of herbs and spices. Every bite was full of flavour, and the rice and peas soaked up all those delicious juices perfectly.
It’s messy. It’s authentic. And it’s exactly how jerk chicken should be.
Then came the Fried Chicken with Rice & Peas, Coleslaw and Fried Plantain.
If you’re imagining your average fried chicken, think again.
The coating was beautifully crisp, but underneath was some of the juiciest chicken we’ve had in a long time. It practically fell apart with every bite. Add the creamy coleslaw, fluffy rice and peas and those sweet slices of fried plantain, and you’ve got a plate where every element works together perfectly. The sweetness, spice and crunch all balance each other beautifully.
To drink, we kept things traditional with a can of Ting and an Old Jamaica Ginger Beer. Refreshing, full of flavour and the perfect pairing for the food.
The biggest surprise? Just how much food you get.
The portions are seriously generous, and considering the quality of the ingredients and the care that’s gone into every dish, it’s fantastic value for money. You’ll leave full, happy and already planning what to order next time.
Don’t miss it this summer
Pop-ups have a habit of disappearing just as you’ve discovered them, so don’t leave this one too long.
If you’re already a Jerk Shak fan, you’ll be pleased to know Cynthia is serving exactly the same authentic Jamaican food that’s made her such a favourite over the years. If you’ve never been before, there’s no better time to see what you’ve been missing.
Ashley Cross has gained something pretty special this summer, and we’re hoping the sunshine sticks around long enough for plenty more people to discover it.
Go hungry, bring your friends, grab a Ting, and don’t forget the napkins – that jerk chicken is worth getting your hands messy for.
Price: ££–£££ / Where: Ashley Cross, Poole, Dorset / Website: www.instagram.com/thejerkshak/
