Xaymaca, Fukuoka-Shi

Owner, chef, bartender, and chief personality "Allen"--a big, burly, super-friendly Jamaican who spent some of his youth in New York--has created a restaurant/bar where your spirits are always lifted. Staff members are international and speak several languages; Allen's adorable children are often present, competing for the affection of guests. The interior gives homage to Jamaica. There is also a piano, and a space for local Jazz acts every Sunday night. The food can be very basic (like tuna sandwiches), but much of it based on Island cuisine, starting at JPY500. Happy hour is held Mon-Sat 6:30pm-8pm, and on beer night (Mon), pitchers are JPY1,200 yen and mugs JPY250. Tuesday nights are ladies' nights, when all cocktails are JPY500.