Kingston Kitchen: The Night Market, the capital’s most anticipated culinary experience, returns on July 5 at Hope Gardens. 

Since its debut in December 2011, Kingston Kitchen’s Night Market has grown into Jamaica’s premier food event. With a vibrant open-air food court and a curated mix of local and international flavours, it has become the go-to destination for food lovers seeking bold, creative, and delicious experiences.

“Kingston Kitchen is your dream destination for food, drinks, and entertainment. We are dedicated to bringing together some of Jamaica’s most creative and talented culinary professionals while providing a fun, engaging vibe for our foodies as they savour all the flavours that we have to offer,” says Leisha Wong, co-founder of Kingston Kitchen. 

This year, patrons can look forward to over 70 vendors showcasing a diverse range of cuisines, from local favourites to international eats, seafood, food trucks, sweet treats, cocktails and vegetarian options.

Some featured vendors include Chop’d Salady Tings & Market, Sheriff Gourmet BBQ, Mystic Thai, Street Food Saturdays River Dining Experience, Crispy Pork Belly Ja, Churros 876, Aunt Merl’s Place, Deaf Can! Coffee, Presto Pasta, THE FLOUR GIRL JA, The Cheesecake Lab JA, Ladybee Mixology, Scoops Unlimited Ltd, The Rib Kage and The Burrito Shack.

In addition to mouthwatering food, the Night Market offers live entertainment with top DJs, and fun for the whole family. Children can explore the vibrant pickney plaza, complete with a petting zoo and rides, while teens and young adults can unwind in the upbeat ‘vibes yard’.

New this year is the exciting ‘foodie pass’, the ultimate experience for passionate foodies. This premium pass includes exclusive early access (4:00-5:00 pm), the ability to skip the lines, and a “park like a VIP” feature. “We wanted to elevate the experience for our most devoted food lovers,” says Melanie Miller, co-founder, Kignston. “The foodie pass lets you beat the crowd, get a head start on getting to your favourites, and enjoy the event like a true member of our Kingston Kitchen foodie fam!”

Melanie Miller, along with Leisha Wong and Jacqui Sinclair (the third Kingston Kitchen co-founder), are also excited for the event’s 15th birthday in 2026, as the team focuses on extending its vision for the brand.

“Kingston Kitchen is for the people,” says Sinclair. “ We are a festival that celebrates the flavours and energy of our Jamaican culinary heritage, and we invite all foodies to come and celebrate the ‘Eat Good’ movement with us.”