Bellfield 1794 Restaurant & Greathouse
Author: Jessica McCurdy Crooks
Article Posted: 08/05/2007
Have you ever been somewhere and years later the memory is still as fresh in your mind as when you first saw it. That is what Bellfield 1794 Restaurant & Greathouse has done…move than six years after first visiting this beautiful spot it calls to me.
There is just something that about the place that calls to your soul; it’s more than the physical beauty of the place. I wrote this piece as I tried to put into words why Bellfield has such a hold on me. I need to revisit to see if anything has changed.
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At first sight the grounds and surroundings literally take your breath away. You can almost feel the presence of the slaves and masters of long ago whilst admiring this magnificent great house. The restaurant located on the grounds, provides a view of our colonial past that will leave an indelible mark on your mind. There are two dining rooms, one on top of the other, the design a throw back to a darker period in Jamaica’s history. Bellfield is one of those places that must be experienced, as mere words are inadequate.
The dining room features a thatched roof with no walls to the sides. Diners can enjoy sumptuous Jamaican fare while enjoying the beauty of the countryside and cool sea and mountain breezes. The chairs and tables are made of old rum barrels lined with blue upholstery. Gas lamps are used to add to the atmosphere. Below the dining area is a lounge where guests can enjoy cocktails while waiting to be taken on a 20 minute tour of the great house. Brilliant red fabric covers all the chairs and tables in this area, giving it a sophisticated air.
The food is traditional Jamaican and includes such fare as "Curried Goat", "Escoveitch Fish" and "Baked Chicken". Fruit drinks made from local fruits that are in season are served as well as alcoholic liquors of choice.
Bellfield is definitely a part of Jamaica that is off the beaten path; nestled in a quiet area on the outskirts of Montego, it should be on every visitor’s must visit location.