reviews

SkyWritings, Air Jamaica's Inflight Magazine, "Seaside Nyammings" September-October 2009 Want real "Street" food served against a backdrop of the waves crshing against the cliffs?
"Leave it to the folks behind Negril cliff=side hot spot Rockhouse to blend authentic Jamaican food, with a picture perfect location. Located at Pirates Cave, next door to the boutique hotel, the new restaurant Pushcart is set amongst a rich film history. The 1950s classic 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, was filmed in the cave directly below the restaurant, while Steve McQueen jumoed off the exact cliff in the 1970s hit Papillon. Its silver screen heritage aside, Pushcart embraces the tastes and aromas of real Jamaican cooking. From the peppered shrimp inspired by the roadside vendors of Middle Quarters, to fried fish and bammy straight from Hellshire, the menu features a number of home cooked favourites - jus' like Mama used to make. It also features nightly musical performances, an open kitchen, authentic rum bar, and brethtaking sunsets. What more yu need?

SkyWritings, Air Jamaica's Inflight Magazine, "Natural Mystic" March/April 2004
"Like the afterglow following sunset, the magic of Rockhouse in Negril is cast in subtle yet lingering spells. Sited on the scenic west end of Jamaica's Negril with gin clear water never more than a stones throw away, lies a property that quite literally invites you to look beneath the surface. If you accept that invitation then revealed is an air of studied mellow vibes and rich personality as welcoming as a chilled drink on a hot day. For the urban warrior in search of respite from the pressures of traffic, smog and concrete, then the peace of a sea breeze - with help from the ubiquitous rum punch - is necessary nectar indeed. And since the time of the buccaneers the Caribbean has provided just that, a refuge for tropical weather, adventure and water form a somber northern hemisphere existence.

Although only a few miles down the road from the all-inclusive resorts in Negril, Rockhouse seems a million miles away from its more grandiose neighbors on the coast. Here South Beach meets the West Indies, island style. A cool, cliff top oasis, Rockhouse embodies all that is fine and funky about Jamaica. Nestled within stands of almond trees and palms of every hue and texture rests a collection of mega shacks: thatched, colorful and containing all the luxury prerequisites: a perfect mattress and a fire hose strength outside shower. Rooms vary from the aforementioned villas to studios and not all accommodations are made equal, so do your self a favor and splash out to stay in one of the villas, it is worth it. In vivid contrast to the rooms, the fresh water pool area is an art deco-esque fish finned series of cut stone walls, geometric shapes and vibrant colors. Seemingly incongruous, the architect has made a bold statement here, as if raising a challenge to both preconceived expectations as well as the ocean on whose waters he looks set to sail with his nautical themed design. However the real jewel in the crown is that untouched by man. Water so clear it becomes impossible to judge depth eddies around coral heads and surges into limestone caves beneath your feet. Like the hidden lair of a James Bond villain, pathways carved into volcanic rock lead to secluded grottos that beg to be explored.

Celebrating its tenth anniversary Rockhouse is the brainchild of an Australian trio who first visited the island due to a fascination with Jamaican culture. Coming from another island whose majority are also imports they related at once to the credo of "out of many, one people". To that end the staff is encouraged to be themselves and manage to achieve admirably the not so easy mix of high standards of professional service and an authentic, fun working atmosphere. Steering the ship from day to day is Matthew Marzouca, the general manager, whose live wire energy and infectious laugh are a constant presence throughout the property, ensuring that a wonderful stay is had by all. The mark of a first rate hotel must be if guests return and at the Rockhouse they just keep coming back. In the words of one guest who had lost count of the number of times she had been; "I can't describe what it is about here. All I know is that within a few days my soul feels renewed and my spirit is full."

Once the stars come out the Rockhouse Restaurant becomes the place to be. Negril's finest waterside eatery offers what is now called "new Jamaican cuisine" in what is unquestionably a beautiful setting. Perched on the edge of Pristine Cove, Scandinavianly simple furniture, flaming torches and a wicked soundtrack all conspire to realize a delightful eating experience. The food itself is a good combination of local variations on a theme such as jerk chicken fajita with more exotic fish and seafood dishes like the curried shrimp on papaya. Some places just get it right and here they have on two accounts. Ambient sounds with a soft baseline at exactly the right volume help to set the scene. You can talk comfortably and quietly if you wish whilst still getting in the mood to lime (party). Here waiters greet you with a smile and yes, eye contact! Adrian takes it that one step further as he sings his way amongst the tables, another tune and another accent never far away. Oh, and when you do go, ask for the lobster linguini with fresh tomato and basil.

Lounging by the pool late one afternoon and the subtlety of Rockhouse appeared in a brief flash, the setting sun passing through a momentary shade and perfectly reflecting the red concrete pathways that until that second has seemed a peculiar choice. A half rainbow of color swept up from the horizon and, at the point where indigo should be, were high clouds, brilliantly back lit by a sun already invisible to the naked eye. And so it is with Rockhouse. Look beyond the obvious, the design statements, the glorious sunset view and allow the charming service and cleansing sea breeze to wash over you. If you do, you'll see the world in a better light and you'll find one of Jamaica's most relaxed and authentic experiences, as pleasing as an evening cloud."