Back A Yard Caribbean Grill

Name: Back A Yard Caribbean Grill
Address: 457 E San Carlos St, San Jose, California, 95112, US
Telephone: (408) 217-9443
Price range: $
Rating: 4

$ • Caribbean

Hours:
457 E San Carlos St, San Jose
(408) 217-9443

Menu Order Online

About Back A Yard Caribbean Grill

Back A Yard Caribbean Grill is a popular food spot near SJSU, known for its flavorful jerk chicken, salmon, and other Caribbean dishes. The jerk chicken and salmon are packed with flavor and have a slight kick from the sauce, which is worth the price point. The staff is friendly and quick to fill orders, although the limited seating outside makes it a better option for takeout. The food, service, and portions are consistently satisfying, with the jerk pork, oxtail, and pumpkin soup being standout menu items. Even the plantain, which some may not be fans of, is perfectly cooked with a gooey and crunchy texture.

The restaurant’s management, led by the district manager Moe, is incredibly nice and accommodating, making every visit feel welcoming. They genuinely care about customer experiences and have a great attitude that reflects positively on the restaurant as a whole. The food remains consistently good, with jerk chicken, oxtail, and pumpkin soup being popular choices. The fried cornbread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a must-try side dish. The plantains are sweet, caramelized, and perfectly cooked, adding extra value to each meal.

However, there are some areas for improvement. Calling to place an order or inquire about menu items can be frustrating because staff often don’t answer the phone, making it difficult to make special requests or ask questions. One customer also noted receiving their drink in a container meant for food, which felt unprofessional. Regarding the food, some customers wish the goat curry had more meat and fewer bones and fatty pieces. While the restaurant has its own suppliers, a better balance of meat to bones could elevate the dish.

Overall, Back A Yard is a great spot with lots of potential, thanks to its fantastic management and flavorful food. A few tweaks in customer service and menu execution could make it even better. For those craving bold flavors and hearty portions, this place is an absolute must-visit. The jerk chicken, oxtail, and goat curry are highly recommended, along with the fried cornbread and the best plantains ever—sweet, caramelized, and perfectly cooked. The rice, beans, and especially the plantains make each meal special, offering comforting classics and soul-satisfying options. The fries, often praised as some of the best, are golden, crispy outside, crunchy inside, and salted to perfection, adding to the overall satisfying experience.