Calico Jack’s Kitchen. Great food + Key West bar.. in the heart of Hazel Park. For months it was all a buzz who would take over the food service area in Eastern Palace Club and what would they serve, and this past Friday I got to find out. And all I can say is wow! Everything we ordered looked and tasted amazing! From the double smash burger to the Korean inspired fried chicken sandwich. We just couldn’t go wrong! Even the tempura broccoli was a solid hit! The bar served up tasty drinks and we even got the soft launch of a new specialty drink menu which were equally as impressive. Don’t believe me? Go check it out for yourself!
The photos explain it well enough- so good, worth coming out to try!
Went to Calico Jacks with a friend and had an amazing time! We are both gluten free and felt extremely safe eating here. The burger was amazing and the fries had just the right amount of seasoning to make them addictive!
One of my fave places to haunt. Finally got to try the new spot with the grub today. Had to come try this - I am BEYOND delighted with the Palace Burger and Waffle Fries. I am ever grateful that I can avoid food allergens (onion allergy is no fun), with a staff that listens and checks in. Normally I take a picture but I absolutely INHALED this burger. Next time!!
My family and I have been looking so forward to coming in and check out the new menu! We waited until after the soft opening, we were in last night. We ordered a little bit of everything- the burger, wings, the pork sandwich, the naan with dip, the broccoli, fries…Let me tell you. The food is amazing! Please don’t get me started on the Key Lime Pie! We had a fantastic time, highly recommend everyone check it out! 😊
I had the chance to attend the soft opening, and from the moment I walked in, everything exceeded expectations. The service was outstanding, the atmosphere was vibrant and immersive, and the food absolutely stole the show. I’ve lived in the area my entire life and had no idea this hidden gem was here until I read about the kitchen launch in Metro Times. The exterior of the EPC building truly does not do the interior justice. Stepping inside from a dreary winter evening felt like being transported straight to the islands—warm lighting, tropical vibes, and an energy that instantly lifts your mood. The live music was a fantastic surprise, featuring a great local musician. The volume was perfect—lively enough to elevate the vibe yet balanced enough to comfortably enjoy conversation. A huge shoutout to Maxwell, our server, who truly elevated the entire experience. He was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, incredibly friendly, and brought exactly the kind of upbeat, welcoming energy you hope for at a tiki bar. His recommendations were spot on, and he made us feel genuinely taken care of from start to finish. Now for the real star of the night—the food. The Tempura Broccoli was unbelievably flavorful and perfectly crisp, with just the right amount of heat to wake up your taste buds without overpowering the dish. The Walking Ceviche was a brilliant and creative twist on a traditional walking taco—fresh, vibrant, layered with texture, and honestly unforgettable. And the Palace Burger? Absolute standout. High-quality, cooked perfectly, packed with flavor—and incredibly filling. It’s the kind of burger that satisfies you completely without feeling heavy. Pair it with the waffle fries dusted in that signature “scurvy salt,” with its subtle kick, and you’ve got something seriously crave-worthy. This was my first experience at EPC, but it absolutely will not be my last. With Executive Chef Nate Shaw bringing such bold culinary creativity to the kitchen, this place is poised to take off. Keep it up—you’ve got something special here.