appetiteIt'd be easy to dismiss all Jamaican food as jerk, curry and plantains set to a Bob Marley soundtrack, Red Stripe in-hand, "Hey Mon!" and all that. And yes, you'll find all except a thick Patois at this Caribbean replacement for the long-standing Tex-Mex landmark, El Tesoro, which shuttered earlier this summer.

At the brightly re-painted Spice Island Grill, you'll also find a lot more cultural and culinary depth, ranging from Ital (the strict Rastafari diet) tributes like a range of tofu entrées to Jamaica's national dish ($12.99), a salty, herby scramble of tomatoes, onions, salted cod and Ackee fruit, an oddly but not unpleasantly egg-y (at least, here) tasting cousin to lychee fruit.

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Since its opening in August, Spice Island Grill has made Colorado Springs a little bit sunnier. It’s a brightness that can be seen in everything they do, from the smiles of the staff and the new paint to the fantastic spice combinations and the fresh lime and orange juice in the homemade rum punch.

While true to the relaxed and fun vibe many people associate with the country, Spice Island Grill is more than Jamaican image alone. It’s instead built on solid culinary skill and delicious food, both backed up by a family of owners who are passionately invested in the restaurant’s success.

Starter highlights

The fact that they call their starters “Jammin-tisers” may be a little cheesy, but the actual offerings are all stellar and nicely priced. The Fried Codfish Balls ($6.99) are a masterpiece. The kitchen magician combines salted cod flakes, spices, batter and a deep fryer to transform seafood into a fluffy, savory donut.

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Spice Island Grill, Jamaican Restaurant, is showcasing a few of their favorite dishes on FOX21/KXRM in Colorado Springs, CO.