Brooklyn and Manhattan were the first flavors I tasted, and as a result, I was prepared to rule New Jerk City a failure. But then something wonderful happened. I tried the Staten Island flavor; Staten Island is AMAZING ($6.75 for 2oz). The vinegar puts you in mind of delicious, tangy Carolina BBQ, and the coriander sings to my Indian heritage. This is the best Jerky I’ve had outside Texas. Queens and the Bronx similarly, were very good: spicy and flavorful yet soothing, the way good jerky is MEANT to be. Queens relies on Asian spices, whereas the Bronx leans on garlic to make its point, but both points are made beautifully.
Ultimately, which of these brands you prefer is up to you. Personally, I’m going on etsy right now and ordering more Staten Island and Bourbon Flavor Deer Tracks.
Photography by Jessica Tupper.