Back A Yard Caribbean Grill

It's scary how good the food is. Straight up voodoo. I get the pork and goat and plantains plate with rice... I think my African ancestors connect with me through this meal, especially with the friend plantains. And the variety of spices is just... Ugh 😍

And the prices... Jesus wept ❤️

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

From what i gathered, this restaurant is a Jamaican/Caribbean style barbecue joint, complete with Caribbean jerk sauce.

I ordered the hot links and my wife got the fried chicken. Everything was great, yet the hot links were NOT hot. At least to me. The pineapple upside down cake was a little underwhelming, but it was served cold, and I'm pretty sure the sauce on it was supposed to be warmed/melted. The flavor was great although it was like eating a very dense sponge cake.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 3

Service: 3

I went in this location a little after 11 followed by a white bearded male on the phone… when we walked in I was greeted with the ambiance of Caribbean music only to be interrupted by the yelling of the man who I realized was the manager yelling at staff to turn down music very rudely. Just for him to sit at dining table and talk extremely loud laughing obnoxiously about personal things. Will definitely take food Togo next time. Dining experience was terrible. Had to come back and leave review because that’s highly inappropriate behavior for a manager. Personal phone calls should be done away from customers always and especially not prioritized over dining music

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 1

Service: 1

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken Plate

Tops in the game food Flavor Quality is A1
I’m a native Jamaican & New Yorker
Eating this kinda food all My life
Hands down no better Caribbean/Jamaican food in Bay Area probably all of California I lived in LA for 2 years there’s nothing this good out there and they’re prices are great

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken

First time here. Asked if the 8pcs wings are "bone-in" and the lady taking orders had no idea what I was talking about. I had to explain it to her. Then I asked what flavors they offer and she was even more perplexed by my question. I had to try to explain myself, to understand what the flavor was gonna be of the food and she was of no help. She explains that everything is pre prepared in a bag and they just fry the wings, she didn't know what flavor they are... That sounds not appetizing. No thank you!

Service: 1

I don't know what happened to the food here it was once good maybe the cook has changed but this food has drastically changed the flavor the rice don't have the same taste instead it was so hot with pepper I didn't understand the beef pies are so spicy with pepper all you can taste is hot pepper no flavors

Excellent food! Peerless!

They've been serving delicious food for over a decade! So glad to see they've expanded 🙌🏾 Oxtails are the business! 😃

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken Plate

The food is great every time I got into the service has been just as good

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken, Jerk Chicken Plate

Definitely Good Food 🥘

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 2

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken, Jerk Chicken Plate, Fried Plantains

All food is made to order so be patient with staff. The food is fresh and tastes excellent. served in togo containers. Beverages Housemade Fresh juice and Ginger Beer. Jamaica Red Stripe Beer, Pineapple and champagne cola available. Seating at High tables and regular tables.

Dietary restrictions: All items labeled, Gluten Free items labeled with GF

Kid-friendliness: High chairs available.

Wheelchair accessibility: Parking and low tables with removable chairs.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken Plate, Fried Plantains

We ate today, ordered 4 plates. The last plate was BBQ chicken and ribs. It was burnt, the sixes are like charcoal. Why? When at this location is better then 13th. Sad night. $80 wasted. 😕

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 2

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken, Jerk Chicken Plate

Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at Back A Yard Caribbean Grill, located on East Capitol Expressway in San Jose. Known for its authentic Caribbean flavors, this small yet vibrant restaurant offers a culinary escape to the islands, and my experience there was nothing short of delightful.

The Meal
I opted for the BBQ Chicken and Ribs combo, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. The BBQ Chicken was perfectly cooked, moist, and tender, with a flavorful barbecue sauce that struck the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. Every bite was a testament to the chef’s skill in creating flavors that are bold yet nuanced.

The ribs were equally impressive. Cooked to perfection, the meat was fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with smoky flavor. Paired together, the chicken and ribs made for a hearty and satisfying meal that delivered on every level.

The sides also deserve special mention. The plantains, beautifully browned and sweet, added a delightful contrast to the savory meats. The rice and beans, while slightly sticky, had a comforting, home-cooked quality and complemented the protein well. The dish was thoughtfully composed, with each component contributing to an overall balance of flavors and textures.

To wash it all down, I tried the guava drink, which was an absolute treat. Refreshing and tropical, its fruity flavor perfectly aligned with the Caribbean theme of the meal.

The Atmosphere
Back A Yard Caribbean Grill might be small in size, but it’s big on personality. The walls are adorned with brightly painted murals that instantly transport you to the Caribbean. The vibrant colors, combined with the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked food, create an inviting and energetic ambiance. It’s the kind of place where you feel welcome the moment you step inside.

The Service
A great dining experience isn’t just about the food, and Back A Yard excels in service as well. Sheniele and Denise, two of the staff members, went above and beyond to make my visit special. Their warmth, kindness, and attentiveness added a personal touch that’s rare to find. They ensured that my food arrived quickly and checked in to make sure everything was perfect, which it absolutely was.

Final Thoughts
Back A Yard Caribbean Grill delivers an authentic taste of Jamaica in the heart of San Jose. From the bold flavors of their BBQ Chicken and Ribs to the sweet indulgence of their plantains, every dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. The portions are generous, the prices are reasonable, and the service is exceptional.

Whether you’re looking for a quick takeout meal or a sit-down experience that feels like a mini Caribbean getaway, Back A Yard is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how food has the power to transport, delight, and connect.

I’ll definitely be returning soon to try more of their menu, and I encourage anyone craving authentic Caribbean cuisine to do the same. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken, Fried Plantains

The best location of backa yard. Friendly staff and they make the dishes great.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

BEST SERVICE EVER DENISE IS A WONDERFUL WOMAN! She went above and beyond to give me ELITE service the food is the best in the bay I love the oxtails!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Jerk Chicken, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Jerk Chicken Plate, Key Lime Pie, Fried Plantains