Banana Negril or Lambert's Banana is boasting to be the only "authentic Jamaican restaurant in Negril". So says owner and operator Lingbert 'Lambert' Williams.

Lingbert 'Lambert' Williams serves cane juice to one of his customers at his Lambert's bananashop in Negril.

Opened just over six months ago, Lambert's Banana is already making a name for itself as word quickly spreads about their delicious Jamaican food - done the same way your grandmother would have made it.

Williams, also the owner of the Negril's Sauve Fashion, a clothing and shoes store known for its top brand designer shoes, said he made the transition to a restaurant because, "I wanted to strike a balance with the things I offer. At Suave I cater mainly to locals, and I really wanted to do something that got the tourists more involved. Furthermore, I believe getting traditional Jamaican delicacies in a casual and rustic atmosphere was something missing in Negril."

The restaurant specialises in Jamaican dishes such as ackee and salt fish, rundown "made with hand-grated coconut", curry goat, fritters, roasted Blue Mountain Coffee and "chocolate tea with the oil on top". They also serve fresh juices, all made at the restaurant, which include sorrel, June plum and cane juice.

unique feature

The unique feature of Lambert's Banana is that the restaurant is interactive. Patrons can learn how to make their own cane juice from the cane with a juicing machine that was used on sugar plantation; and they can watch their coffee beans being roasted and help to jerk their own chicken. Lambert goes as far as taking patrons into the cane field to cut their own sugar cane.

"The tourists love cutting their own cane and coming back to the restaurant and juice it," he says with a smile. "Who knew juicing their own cane would be such a delight for tourists, but they can't get enough of it". To finish things off, his patrons can enjoy a delicious banana rum cake for dessert.

Lambert's Banana has been doing well even in the slow tourist periods, as they also have a lot of local visitors and repeat business. The atmosphere is great, the food is delicious and the staff is very friendly. "We are poised and ready for the winter season" says Lambert. "Business is great, but it is going to be even better."

Along with expanding his menu, he is also planning to sell gift items that are all locally made including perfumes and colognes. Right now they even offer internet service "so it is like a cyber- Jamaican restaurant," he jokes.