Pier 1 - Oasis by the sea
Published:Wednesday | October 18, 2017 | 12:00 AMJanet Silvera
WESTERN BUREAU:
Imagine enjoying a meal by the sea - the wide expanse of the turquoise Caribbean Sea at every angle. For 30 years, that has been what Pier 1 has offered to customers in the tourist capital of Montego Bay, St James.
Operators of Montego Bay's most popular nightlife venue and restaurant say its survival in the marketplace was boosted significantly by Jamaica's leading rum maker, Wray & Nephew.
Pier 1 is not just a restaurant; it's an entertainment complex satisfying your palate and entertainment needs. In fact, Pier 1's slogan says it all - 'It's not just a restaurant. It's an attraction', and rightly so. On Wednesdays, Wray & Nephew White Rum 'paints' the venue green and gold, with an event tagged 'Star Struck' promoting talent within western Jamaica. In addition, the rum company sponsors a number of such events, including 'Rock the Mic', which commenced last night, in which the winner takes home $75,000.
This is the third year since the competition, which resembles a mini Digicel Rising Stars, is being staged at the Montego Bay entertainment complex, explained Peta-Gaye King, marketing and promotions manager of the restaurant.
On Fridays, Appleton Signature Blend 'Pier Pressure' takes over the city, and few locations even try to compete.
Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays are regular nights for dining. Pier 1 has some of the most delicious dishes you will find on that side of the island. From a juicy steak to fish, lobster and shrimp. You name it, they have it. They have also recently added a kids menu. "Children tend to dictate where parents eat and they are the future of MoBay. We want them to feel special when they come here and so we have introduced a kids menu with kids combo meals," said King, pointing out that crunchy shrimp, cheesy fries and tomato pasta were a favourite among the children, particularly with the free take-home cup filled with juice.
And, while the kids walk away with juice, the restaurant offers an abundance of spirits for the adults. Think Dirty Banana, daiquiris and signature drinks such as Pier Punch. It's made with Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum, orange, pineapple, passion fruit and lime juice, a little grenadines and bitters.
"The relationship with Pier 1 and Wray & Nephew is unquantifiable. It has been a happy marriage. I don't think we could have had the success we are now reaping without each other," said Jason Russell, manager at the Montego Bay entertainment complex.
"We share the same values and have respect for each other. Our ultimate goal is to please the customer."
"They (Wray & Nephew) have helped to bring Pier 1 into being the number one spot in MoBay. The progression has been bolstered by their involvement every step of the way," said King.