Kingston, Jamaica has a tough reputation that dates back to the bloody political turmoil of the ‘70s and the crack wars of the ‘80s. Even dancehall, the hot music that has replaced traditional reggae as the island’s chief musical export, has a deservedly edgy vibe. Before I headed down to Jamaica’s capital I had all kinds of stereotypes about Kingston in my head.

But a few days running round the city changed my perception of Kingston. Now I’m not suggesting you plan your trip around the notorious Trenchtown section of the town. However I found the place to be very family oriented with quality restaurants and plenty of black pride.

Located on the island’s South coast, Kingston is the proud repository of this independent black nation’s history. The National Gallery of Jamaica, located in the busy downtown area, is a treasure trove of paintings and sculpture that celebrates its peoples’ successful struggle to break free of slavery and British colonialism. One of the most famous statues in the National Gallery is The Negro Aroused, created by Jamaica’s best-loved fine artists Edna Manley, to celebrate Jamaican independence.

A replica …

My final recommended Kingston destination is Devon House, a large estate created in the 1800s by George Siebel, the first black million in the Caribbean. Siebel’s story is as colorful as any period adventure film. Siebel made his fortune when, after surviving a ship wreck at sea, he came a shore in central America with his money belt still attached to his waist. Using that money Siebel purchased and a diamond mine and made his fortune.

He built Devon House from scratch and with its large white house and converted servants quarters, its remains one of the most imposing parcels of land in Kingston. For several decades this century Devon House housed the National Gallery of Jamaica. These days it’s been converted into a series of dining and lounging spaces that attracts large families as well as those seeking fine dining.

Norma’s on the Terrace at Devon House is run by Norma Shirley, a world renowned chef, and the place has won citations from every culinary magazine you can name. She’s sometimes called the Julia Child of the Caribbean, though she cites her influences more from several English chefs. Either way Norma’…

Before you head out to a Kingston party I’d recommend stopping by Cuddy’z Sports Bar & Restaurant, which is located in the popular New Kingston Shopping Center, and owned by famous retired cricketer, Courtney Walsh. Like an American sports bar, Cuddy’z is decorated with athletic paraphernalia, but its all cricket gear (pictures, uniforms, bats, and murals), a game very dear to the heart of West Indians. The crowd is primarily folks in their early ‘20s, lots of stylishly dressed couples and groups of attractive young women. The atmosphere at Cuddy’s reminded of being in Atlanta’s Buckhead area of a nice summer night.

For a mellow daytime experience a visit to Hope Botanical Gardens, which is located on 200 acres of land and is the largest public green space in the city? Nestled in the center of Hope Gardens is an oasis within an oasis, Ashanti Oasis Ital restaurant. Ital is a Rastafarian word equates to vegetarian food and this place lives up to the name. Owned by Sister Hope, a laid back woman who opened the space in 2002 in an abandoned building, she’s created a tranquil space in sometimes hectic Kingston.

Pinto …