Although not the Caribbean, Bahama Breeze in Robinson Township is as close as you can get in Pittsburgh. The newly opened restaurant has been taunting passersby for months with its warm, pink sign fully lit and torch lanterns ablaze.

Featuring Caribbean cuisine, this restaurant is a newly devised chain from Darden Restuarants, the creators of The Olive Garden and Red Lobster — but don’t dismiss this restaurant because of a disdain for chain restaurants. Although you’re likely to find an excessive amount of “yinzers” and generally disgruntled employees at Darden’s other chains, Bahama Breeze makes customer service a top priority. Before customers even enter the restaurant, they are greeted by valet staff (alternatively, non-valet spots are in abundance next to the restaurant).

Situated next to The Mall at Robinson, Bahama Breeze’s location allows you to make a shopping run while waiting to eat at this restaurant. Or, relax at their expansive bar, which features a range of both common and tropical drinks. A porch, complete with a large bonfire and reggae music, invites customers to sip their drinks in a Caribbean façade. However, anxious food goers can opt for call ahead seating, rolled out in early March to all Bahama Breeze locations.

Drink prices are average, along with the amount of liquor. One of my companions ordered a Bahamarita, which featured a small shot of tequila for her to sparingly mix into ice slush. My Mojito Cubano was well mixed, but one can probably find more alcoholic potency in a drink during half-price dinner at Fuel and Fuddle.

Staff at the restaurant are unexpectedly friendly and personable, even writing my companions’ first names and the day’s date on leftovers to take home. Fresh from training, the staff devotedly followed stipulated rules: the waitress apologized for needing to provide me with the mandatory glass of water that complemented my soda and Mojito on the crowded table.

Unlike at other restaurants where your eye spends the night exploring the tables nearby, Bahama Breeze’s dimly lit restaurant and architectural barriers keep you focused on your table. Although the noise level is high, it prevents nearby distractions, like a crying child, from disturbing a dinner.

The 12 item appetizer selection makes deciding an arduous task — you might have to order more than one and take your dinner home. The prawns and unusually large onion rings are covered in a delicious coconut breading and served with citrus mustard. Those seeking non-deep-fried food will find the Creole Baked Goat Cheese delightful. Make sure to try a bite of the roasted red pepper, which holds the goat cheese used for spreading on bread. For something spicy, try the Tostones con Pollo, a large plate of fried plantains covered in melted cheese, chicken, and mushrooms.

The dinner menu contains an ample amount of chicken, beef, seafood, pasta, salads, and pizza. To save room for dessert, discounted smaller-size portions of meals, sandwiches, and soups are also available. The Tandoori Chicken was well portioned and flavored, including a large helping of yams and topped with two fried plantains. Other chicken entrees like the Ancho Rubbed Chicken Breast and Jamaican Grilled Chicken Breast are equally satisfying.

The Jumbo Sea Scallops with Chimichurri will not disappoint those who prefer a seafood dish. One of my companions raved about her Mahi Mahi — a “daily special” that has lasted months at other Bahama Breeze locations — remarking that it was “quite tasty!” All of the dishes come with unique, flavorful fruit-based sauces that provide a sweet-tasting dinner experience that is hard to find elsewhere in the 'Burgh.

Although the desserts pale in comparison to the taste of the appetizers and meals, those with stomach room to spare will have no complaints about the wealth of choices and taste. The Bananas Supreme is a scrumptious, chocolate-less dish, served with moist banana-nut bread and a sweet butterscotch sauce. For chocolate lovers, the Chocolate Island is a good choice; composed of chocolate mousse and topped with vanilla ice cream, my taste of this dessert was delectable (our waitress commented that it is her favorite). The José’s Chocolate Tres Leches is chocolate cake topped with chocolate mousse, complemented with strawberries. Finishing up a second drink from the bar was almost too difficult after already eating so much — but I succeeded.

The above par service and satisfying food will fulfill — you’ll likely feel the need to tip excessively. And if by rare chance your visit is less than enjoyable, take a tip from our waitress: order the Atlantis drink all night — it is abhorred by the bartenders because of the extra work involved in its preparation.

Food: 4/5 stars
Atmosphere: 4/5 stars

Get there by bus: Take the 28X to the corner of Park Manor Boulevard and Park Manor Drive (the stop nearest The Mall at Robinson.)

Bahama Breeze
6100 Robinson Center Drive
Robinson Township, PA 15205
412.788.5790