Aloha, Komo Mai – Jamaica Observer

South Beach has landed in New Kingston!

Equal parts dining haven and nightlife retreat, Komo Mai transports guests into a lush paradise built for indulging and celebrating. The forces behind the magic? Directors Romeich Major, Nicholas Mahfood, Jermaule Adair, and Chef Shea Stewart.

Thursday Food secured an exclusive preview on Friday, July 10, ahead of the grand opening of Jamaica’s newest fusion restaurant, joining select guests at the eatery’s Knutsford Boulevard address.

Ascending the steps, patrons are immersed in high-definition 300 ft LED displays of vibrant flora and fauna, setting an inviting tone before they even step inside. Once through the doors, the lounge unfolds like a tropical oasis — complete with a striking cherry blossom tree, floral décor and co-ordinated seating that exudes relaxation. Co-director Chef Stewart spearheaded Komo Mai’s look and feel. The 5,000-square-foot space seamlessly transitions from its general dining area featuring plush purple seating to a balcony lounge outfitted with royal purple couches.

The mood aligns perfectly with the venue’s name. Komo Mai translates to “welcome” in Hawaiian. Chef Stewart, despite the geographical distance between Hawaii and Jamaica, both island cultures share a core commitment to hospitality that guests will readily embrace.

“Although Hawaiian [culture] is not from the Caribbean, we share a lot of similarities in our island life,” Stewart shared with

Thursday Food. “So we wanted to kind of represent that we are [international] but still grounded in the roots of Jamaica.”

That cultural synergy naturally flows into the menu, pairing local Jamaican ingredients with international techniques honed throughout his career.

“Throughout my culinary endeavour, I have been exposed to a lot of different cuisines and I wanted to represent Jamaica but using influences from all over the world. So [its about using] natural flavours but incorporating different techniques and different dishes that I have learnt through my culinary experiences and tie it down to the Jamaican culinary experience,” Stewart said.

Among the house specialities are the tamarind and honey lamb chops, coconut miso salmon, fire-roasted chicken, and pimento steak satay, In keeping with the tropical theme, the bar menu pairs selections including the Lychee martini, Kingston Negroni, and Whisky Sour — with stand out house signatures like the Guava Margarita, Clarified Watermelon, and Passion Fruit Cognac Highball.

Officially opening soon, Komo Mai is set to become New Kingston’s ultimate go-to spot.

Komo Mai

69 Knutsford Boulevard, New Kingston

Photos: Garfield Robinson

Instagram: @komomai.lounge