What are the words people would use to describe Jax Bar & Grill in Isla Mujeres? Welcoming, familiar, consistent, and quality are what come to mind. 

Conveniently  located at the north corner of Medina at the roundabout, Jax has been a gathering place for visitors and expats for 23 years. 

This particular night I had just welcomed my sister and a friend at the UltaMar ferry. Having been up since 4:00 that morning, they unloaded their suitcases and we were off to Jax. 

We arrived just in time for sunset!

We started by sharing a bowl of New England Clam Chowder. The soup was rich and tasty, with an abundance of clams. Great comfort food for the tired and hungry traveller.

Next we turned to the features menu which listed nine additional items not on the regular menu. “Our menu wasn’t large enough” jokes owner Jackie Walker, a pint sized Texan gal with the gift of hospitality. Believe me when I tell you there was already plenty available on Jax six page menu, but Jackie likes to offer a wide variety of options. “I add things I’d like to eat” she shared. The features menu has ceviche, seafood cocktails, a variety of salads and a few other items. From it we selected the Mexican Style Seafood cocktail. A dish I would highly recommend sharing as an appetizer. Served with tortillas chips and soda crackers, this soda fountain glass was filled to the brim with plump shrimp, octopus and conch in a mix of clamato, tomato, and orange juices, chopped tomato, onion and cilantro and topped with sliced avocado. So fresh and delicious. 

Next we tried the spinach salad, opting to top ours with some grilled chicken. The spinach was fresh and the crunch of apple, red onion and toasted pecans played perfectly off the creamy bits of Gorgonzola cheese. Tossed in a honey mustard dressing this salad makes a great option for those looking for something on the lighter side. 

Lastly we had to try the spaghetti bolognese, Jax first ever pasta feature. It’s something that manager Henry has always wanted to see on the menu. It was meaty and saucy and served with little buns that were topped with garlic butter. Again, comfort food at its finest. (Editors note: the leftovers were just as delicious for lunch the next day!)

Regular visitors to the Island are seeing prices increasing every year, however we noticed that Jax has not increased their prices. They also offer some incredible deals. These were listed on the flip side of the features menu. Did you know you can enjoy a cold domestic beer for only 40 pesos Monday through Friday afternoons from 1 -5?  You’ll find a great sale item every day of the week. From half price martinis on Mondays and margaritas on Thursdays. Or enjoy a half price Mimosa or Bloody Mary on Sunday morning. Jax is famous for their Hump Day Happy Hour every Wednesday 3:30 – 5:30. Drink and bar snack specials, and live music. Who could ask for more? The place is packed with dancing and celebration. What are we celebrating you ask…it’s Wednesday and we’re on Isla. Don’t forget to stop by for Taco Tuesday or Fajita Friday. 

See you at our home away from home-Jax! 

Kath’s quote: “Home is not a thing. It is a feeling.”-Authour unknown

Love never fails.

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