A jerk chicken restaurant in East London has been crowned the UK's best after winning the top prize at a festival celebrating jerk cuisine. Yard 2 Yard, run by Christina and Rolex, took home the 'Best Jerk in the UK' award at UK Jerk Fest 2026, held over two days at Hackney Bridge in Hackney Wick. The event featured 11 vendors from across the country competing for the title, with Yard 2 Yard emerging victorious and receiving a golden oil-drum trophy, a symbol of authentic jerk chicken.
Surreal Victory for Yard 2 Yard
Christina described winning as 'surreal' and said they 'didn't expect the love' they received over the weekend. 'We obviously wanted to win but at the same time, it was an opportunity to come together with our fellow traders and have fun. We all talked and shared experiences, so it was exciting coming, but there was one intention and that was to win,' she said. The restaurant, based in Romford, also offers catering services and has built a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere.
Celebrating Jamaican Culture Through Jerk
Christina emphasized the cultural significance of jerk: 'Jerk is such a big part of Jamaican culture; from the cooking process to it, the history, the influences it's had around the islands. It's an opportunity to celebrate culture and the jerk chicken dish celebrates culture. We know what we are capable of, but the sky's the limit.' The festival, organized by Black Eats London, drew thousands of visitors and aimed to restore authenticity to jerk chicken in the UK.
From Portland to East London
Yard 2 Yard was inspired by Rolex's upbringing in Portland, Jamaica, where his father worked as a butcher and taught him about meat preparation and flavor. When Rolex met Christina in England, they bonded over their shared love for food. 'We always operate an open door policy. We always cater to everyone and make them feel welcome. That's where Yard 2 Yard came from; Yard 2 Yard is a home away from home,' Christina said. 'When you come to us, you should feel like you've gone to your mum's house and left with your belly full.'
UK Jerk Fest: A Quest for Authenticity
Jackson Mclarty, founder of Black Eats LDN and UK Jerk Fest, explained the motivation behind the event: 'I wanted to host this because jerk in the UK wasn't authentic. In the UK, it's travelled across the sea and it's lost its authenticity. This event was about holding the chefs accountable, and using a competition format ensured everybody brings their A-game. I wanted people who attended to feel the Jamaican vibe in the air and here in East London.' The festival featured 11 vendors and saw long queues as visitors voted for their favorite, ultimately crowning Yard 2 Yard as the best.
