Happy Times Food Mart
If you're ever in Portsmouth, VA, and craving a flavorful, no-frills meal, Happy Times Food Mart is the place to be. Located at 3200 Elm Ave, this hidden gem brings the best of Caribbean comfort food to the heart of the city. Known for its warm, divey atmosphere, Happy Times Food Mart is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxed spot to enjoy some delicious dishes with family, friends, or even your furry companions, as dogs are welcome here!
One of the standout features of Happy Times Food Mart is its wide array of tasty, home-cooked meals. If you’re into bold, spicy flavors, you can't go wrong with their Jerk Chicken, which is packed with heat and savory goodness. For something a bit milder, the Curry Chicken and Stew Chicken are must-try options, offering rich, comforting flavors that will remind you of home. Not to be missed is the Curry Goat, a tender and flavorful dish that will have you coming back for more. And of course, every meal pairs perfectly with a side of Peas and Rice, a true Caribbean staple that complements the main dishes beautifully.
What makes Happy Times Food Mart stand out is not just the food, but the vibe. It’s a perfect spot for families with kids, and the moderate noise level ensures it’s never too quiet or too loud. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or settling in for a long meal, the lively yet chill atmosphere makes for a perfect dining experience.
So, if you're in the mood for hearty, flavorful food in a laid-back environment, Happy Times Food Mart is the place to go. With an inviting ambiance and mouthwatering dishes, it’s a spot that feels just like home—only with better food!
Reviews
Small corner store packed with the essentials! Jamaican food that's worth any drive and drinks. Across the street from the best show in town as well! This is a get and go spot unless you decide to eat in the parking lot. I highly recommend any tray of food you get from here!
The food was amazing. I had the oxtails rice and beans with cabbage. Plantains on the side! It was delicious. The oxtails were juicy and fall off the bone! I will be coming back again soon.
One should not judge a book by its cover. This is not a restaurant, not even a dive. It is one of those food places that only locals know about. When you overlook the appearance and find courage to go in, you won't be disappointed. I order a jerk chicken and a side of collard greens. The collard greens is the best I ever had. Soft, but not mushy, perfectly seasoned, with a tinge of vinegar. A generous serving of jerk chicken on a perfectly cooked bed of rice and peas. All these for less than the price of an appetizer at a restaurant. "Cooks and hosts" were very friendly also.
Seriously the real deal y'all, go get ya some! The curry chicken and brown stew chicken are both delicious, rice and peas, cabbage, and yams are equally tasty. Huge portions for the price as well. This is not a dine-in joint, but the folks are friendly.
Came here for the first time in about 4 years & the jerk chicken is still the bomb! I might make another drive over this weekend & get some more!