
Every summer, the streets of London, Manchester, and Leeds come alive with the infectious energy of Caribbean carnivals. The Notting Hill Carnival, Manchester Caribbean Carnival, Nottingham Carnival and Leeds West Indian Carnival are more than just music and dance, they’re vibrant cultural showcases where Caribbean food and drinks take centre stage.
For many, carnival isn’t complete without the smell of jerk chicken smoking on the grill, a plate of rice and peas, a beef patty in hand, and a chilled tropical drink. Whether you’re dancing behind the truck, liming with friends, or reliving carnival from home, these are the top 10 must-have Caribbean carnival foods and drinks, all of which you can find at your trusted Caribbean supermarket online, 4Way Foods.
Table of Contents
1. Jerk Chicken – The Heartbeat of Carnival
No dish represents Caribbean street food like jerk chicken. Originating in Jamaica, this smoky, spicy dish is marinated with scotch bonnet peppers, pimento, thyme, and a blend of traditional spices before being slow-grilled over pimento wood.
👉 Explore our Caribbean Jerk Seasonings and recreate authentic jerk chicken at home.

2. Rice & Peas – A Classic Carnival Side
No plate of jerk chicken is complete without rice & peas, cooked in coconut milk and seasoned with thyme, garlic, and scallions. Despite the name, it’s traditionally made with kidney beans. This dish is a staple across Caribbean carnivals and a taste of home for many.
👉 Stock up on Caribbean Rice & Beans from 4Way Foods.
3. Curry Goat – A Carnival Feast
Rich, tender, and full of flavour, curry goat is a Trinidadian and Jamaican favourite, perfect for Caribbean Carnival Foods and Drinks. Slowly stewed in curry powder, garlic, and fresh herbs, it’s a dish that brings family and friends together during carnival season.
👉 Try our Caribbean Curry Powders & Spices.
4. Roti – Trinidad’s Soft & Flaky Flatbread
Soft, layered, and buttery, roti is the perfect wrap for curry goat, chicken, or chickpeas. At carnivals, you’ll see vendors serving “roti wraps” filled with flavourful stews, a true Trinidadian street food classic.
👉 Browse our Caribbean Flour & Baking Essentials.
5. Doubles – Trinidad’s Street Food Legend
One of the most beloved carnival bites, doubles feature two pieces of fried bara bread filled with curried chickpeas and topped with tamarind, pepper sauce, and chutneys. Affordable, filling, and delicious, it’s a must-try at Manchester and Leeds carnivals.
👉 Create doubles at home with Caribbean Chickpeas & Seasonings.
6. Fried Plantain – Sweet, Savory & Irresistible
A true Caribbean comfort food, fried plantain adds sweetness and texture to any carnival plate. Golden, caramelized slices are enjoyed alongside jerk chicken, curry goat, or even on their own as a snack.
👉 Buy fresh Plantain & Tropical Vegetables from 4Way Foods.
7. Jamaican Patties – Carnival Grab-and-Go Favourite
Brightly coloured, flaky pastries filled with spicy beef, chicken, or vegetables, Jamaican patties are one of the most iconic caribbean carnival foods. Easy to carry while dancing in the crowd, they’re a true symbol of Caribbean snacking.
👉 Shop Caribbean Frozen Patties.
8. Tropical Rhythms Drinks – Sorrell, Fruit Punch & Pineapple Ginger
Carnival isn’t only about food, the drinks are just as legendary. Tropical Rhythms offers authentic Caribbean flavors like Sorrell, Pineapple Ginger, and Fruit Punch that keep the vibe refreshing and festive.
👉 Explore our Caribbean Soft Drinks collection.
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9. Magnum Tonic Wine – Carnival Night Essential
Loved for its rich, herbal taste and reputation as an “energy tonic,” Magnum Tonic Wine is a staple perfect for Caribbean carnival foods and drinks. From Notting Hill to Leeds, you’ll find partygoers with a Magnum in hand, keeping the vibes going strong.
👉 Buy Magnum Tonic Wine.
10. Rum Punch – Wray & Nephew Tradition
No carnival is complete without a glass of rum punch, often made with Wray & Nephew White Overproof Rum. Mixed with tropical fruit juices and garnished with citrus, this punch embodies Caribbean festivity in a cup.
👉 Shop Wray & Nephew Rum & Other Caribbean Spirits.
Bringing Carnival to Your Kitchen
Whether you’re attending Notting Hill Carnival, Manchester Caribbean Carnival, or Leeds Caribbean Carnival, or celebrating from home, these top 10 foods and drinks are essential to capturing the spirit of the Caribbean.
At 4Way Foods, your Caribbean online store, Caribbean shop, and Caribbean supermarket in the UK, you’ll find everything you need to cook, sip, and celebrate.
👉 Discover our full Caribbean Foods & Drinks range.
Related Reads
- Top 20 Caribbean Foods and Drinks at Carnival (External Blog)
- The History of Jerk Chicken & Its Global Influence
- How to Host a Carnival-Themed Party at Home
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