Spice Jamaica LLC, a company that brings the vibrant flavors of Jamaica to kitchens across America, has its roots firmly planted in Houston, Texas, thanks to the vision of its founder, Aldaine Oakley. Born and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, Oakley migrated to Houston, Texas In 2016 arriving with just $50 and a vision to bring the best Caribbean food to the South. The true spark for the business happened that same year during a 4th of July celebration.
Aldaine was in charge of the grill, jerking chicken for friends. The food was such a hit that a guest, moved by the flavor, gave him $60 as a gift of appreciation. That $60 moment was the “birth” of Spice Jamaica — it proved that his mother’s teachings had real-world value.
Oakley initially launched a catering company, named Spice Jamaica LLC, which quickly gained popularity for its authentic Caribbean cuisine in the South. Building on this success and his love for cooking, which began at the tender age of 6, inspired by his mother’s homemade meals, Oakley decided to expand his reach.
Building a Luxury Empire
With the support of his wife, Alley officially launched Spice Jamaica, LLC. They started small, with an Instagram page that had only 30 followers, but they stayed consistent. Alley’s goal was to elevate Caribbean cuisine from humble “roadside” expectations to a luxury experience.
His catering became famous for its theatrical presentations, such as:
- Dunn’s River Falls Buffets: Featuring custom rock fountains that mimic the famous Jamaican landmark.
- Cloud & Garden Displays: Using smoke effects and lush greenery to create an “out of this world” atmosphere for weddings and corporate events.
The Seasoning Pivot
In early 2020, Alley had a vision to create his own seasoning line so people could recreate “The Spice Jamaica Way” at home. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic pausing production, he used the time to refine his blends. By September 2020, he officially launched his signature products, like the Reggae Blend All Purpose Seasoning.
Today, Chef Alley is known as a “World Chef,” traveling internationally to cater high-end events while proving that “your beginnings do not define your ending”.
Oakley’s approach to seasoning blends tradition with modern convenience. He draws upon generations of culinary knowledge passed down through his family, ensuring that each blend captures the authentic taste of Jamaican cuisine. However, recognizing the demands of today’s busy lifestyles, Spice Jamaica seasonings are designed for immediate use, whether as a dry rub or a quick marinade, eliminating the need for hours of slow-cooking to infuse flavor.
Spice Jamaica’s product line includes versatile blends like the Reggae Blend all-purpose seasoning, perfect for a wide range of dishes, and their signature Jerk seasoning, known for its bold and spicy flavor. The company boasts that their seasonings “recreate all of your favorite dishes and SPICE UP your every day meal”. They’ve gained recognition in the culinary scene, even winning a trophy at the Houston Crawfish, Crab & Grill Festival in 2019.
On August 1st 2025, Aldaine released his “Under The Ocean” Seasoning and it’s already making waves in the internet.
Spice Jamaica is more than just a seasoning company; it’s a testament to the dedication of Aldaine Oakley, a husband, entrepreneur, and inspiration. His journey from Kingston to Houston and his commitment to sharing the taste of Jamaica with the world showcases the power of passion and perseverance. You can explore their products and recipes at https://spicejamaicallc.com
