Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Pollo Jerk / Jerk Chicken
Arroz Con Vegetales / Rice With Vegetables
Burrito Vegetariano / Vegetarian Burrito
Ensalada De Pollo / Chicken Salad
About
Pura Vida Jamaican and Costa Rican Cuisine
Welcome to Pura Vida Jamaican and Costa Rican Cuisine, a hidden gem nestled in Pontiac, MI. This vibrant eatery, located at 44768 Woodward Ave, invites you on a culinary journey filled with the rich flavors of the Caribbean and Central America. Whether you are a fan of jerk chicken or curious about Costa Rican specialties, Pura Vida has something to tantalize your taste buds.
From the moment you walk in, the aroma of spiced meats and fresh ingredients envelops you, promising a delightful dining experience. The decor is simple yet inviting, creating an atmosphere where you can savor every bite without distraction. The menu features a range of dishes, but it is the jerk chicken that receives the most rave reviews. Diners consistently highlight the depth of flavor and the perfect balance of spice, showcasing the skillful preparation that goes into each meal.
- Entradas: Enjoy crispy chalupas, including the Chalupa De Pollo (Chicken Chalupa), spiced to perfection, or opt for the Chalupa De Res (Beef Chalupa) for a hearty treat.
- Desserts: Don't miss their three delightful cake options. The moist Pastel De Zanahoria (Carrot Cake) is a standout, expertly crafted with hints of cinnamon and studded with walnuts, ensuring a sweet end to your meal.
- Sides: The creamy pasta salad is a beloved accompaniment, offering a refreshing contrast to the more robust flavors of the entrees.
Customer feedback reveals a consistent theme: the customer service at Pura Vida matches the quality of its food. Patrons like Lisa Lindner have praised the outstanding service, complimenting the attentive staff and the owner’s warm demeanor. This personal touch makes dining at Pura Vida feel like visiting a friend's home.
Reviewers such as Tenacious Dennis vividly recount their experiences, recounting how the heat of the jerk chicken exhilarates the palate, further complemented by the cooling effect of the macaroni salad. This perfect pairing not only highlights the cuisine's authenticity but also illustrates the careful thought that goes into crafting each meal.
Diana Reyes, thrilled with her first visit, declared the food "delicious" and described the rice as "soooo good!" Similarly, Perry Kalmus raved about the exceptional jerk chicken and inviting atmosphere, echoing sentiments shared by many who have enjoyed a meal at Pura Vida.
In essence, Pura Vida Jamaican and Costa Rican Cuisine offers more than just food; it provides an authentic taste of Caribbean culture and hospitality. So whether you seek a casual dining experience or a flavor-packed adventure, make sure to stop by and indulge in the culinary heritage that awaits!
For inquiries, you can reach them at (+1) 248-775-5621.
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“ Came here based on recommendation and what a tasty surprise!! Very delicious tasty food. We tried the jerk chicken and fried pork with plantains fried in 2 styles. The rice is soooo good ! We’re happy we tried it. ”
“ Daaaaaaaamn. This place is great! So unassuming, in the middle of almost nowhere on this street. But that is some of the BEST jerk chicken I have had in the US. And the gravy with the rice is perfection. It has the perfect kick too. Go here! And the owner is so sweet and cool. ”
“ We have been here twice and the food and customer service is outstanding ”
“ Fantastic place. I arrived just after opening and had the Jerk Chicken as recommended by the waitress. (She said that it was what most people wanted when they came in.) Checking to make sure I could handle it, she asked if I wanted it spicy. I was confident and agreed. I was half way through the meal when the heat really hit me and I started pouring sweat from my head. Fortunately for me, the macaroni salad was just the right thing to cool down the spice. The cabbage and rice were a good combination with the chicken. I think the problem was that I ate a whole pepper during my gestation of the chicken. But it was worth the pain. Definitely authentic Caribbean cuisine. I’m sure I will return some time to try their agua frescas and other dishes- maybe even some of their desserts. ”
“ I got the fish salad with the snapper and it was very good. The girl working inside was super nice and professional. The restaurant was clean. Definitely coming back! ”
“ Just came in town from the DMV and wanted to check this place out for Lunch. Had the Oxtail platter along with a side of curry Chicken. Oxtail was super tender , falling off the bone when you picked it up. Not dry at all!! Super moist and flavorful! Same with the Curry Chicken! Portions are great to. Really great Value for what you’re getting. The staff is small but really amazing from the cooks to the front man on register. Really nice and Clean ambiance with a little Caribbean charm. 10/10. Wish I took a photo but it got devoured so fast. ”
“ I was recommended this place while here for work. I’m glad that I came! The Jerk chicken plate with a side of Plantain was an awesome combo & washed it all down with a Passion fruit juice! The staff had a wonder loving spirit about them & so did the food! ”
“ “Pontiac's new gem of a restaurant”. Try it you will be glad you did! A amazing FRESH food!! cute place, nice owners. Look forward to going again and bring friends, and going down the menu for all the great choices! Support small business! UPDATE April 2024 I've ate here a number of times a year for the last 4 years never disappoints or the staff . You can eat outside in the summer. They now have a bakery and cafe as 2nd location just north of here. Also excellent ”