When you read descriptions about allspice they always say it tastes a bit like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves...hence the name allspice. I don't think it does. It has it's own distinct taste. It's earthy and woody and used in Jamaican food. It is a berry but it's usually picked unripened. Thank you for the compliment and I always guessed you must be a fan of bacon and avocados from your manwich posts, but I did not know shrimp was up there with bacon. They are both so good!