Best Restaurants in the Caribbean: Find Island Flavors on Your Next Trip

Bountiful fresh-caught seafood and tropical flavors, luxury resorts with top-rated service, and seaside ambiance—it’s no wonder the Caribbean has some of the best restaurants in the world. Culinary gems aplenty, many Caribbean restaurants use local flavors that pay homage to local island cuisine. We’ve highlighted some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean that do just that.

A small “taste” of a thriving culinary scene, here are five locally-minded, top-rated restaurants throughout the Caribbean region. 

Top-ranked Choice: The Kitchen Table (Oranjestad, Aruba)

Food, Service and Ambiance: Described by many reviewers as “indulgent and refined," the Kitchen Table by White is known for its elegant presentation of Aruban-Caribbean food. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; you’ll enjoy an intimate 7- to 8-course meal with only 16 seats available. Staff tastefully accommodates vegetarians and offers wine lovers expertly curated pairings. You’ll want to make reservations far in advance. 

Top-ranked Choice: Champers Restaurant and Wine Bar (Bridgetown, Barbados)

Food, Service and Ambiance: Favored and recommended by locals and repeat vacationers, Champers remains a top restaurant to try in Barbados. Well-known for its elegant yet casual and relaxed vibe (and high service ratings), you’ll enjoy Caribbean fusion flavors, an ocean view and an in-house art gallery featuring local artists. 

Top-ranked Choice: Seven Restaurant (Grace Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands)

Food, Service and Ambiance: Rated by Travel and Leisure magazine as “a must-visit restaurant if you’re in Turks and Caicos,” Seven Restaurant is named one of the best restaurants in Turks and Caicos by critics and past guests alike. Located in the Seven Stars Resort and Spa, its Caribbean fusion menu has an international flair. This modern-contemporary restaurant also offers private beachside and on-the-beach dining.

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Top-ranked Choice: Zimbali’s Mountain Cooking Studio (Westmoreland Parish, Jamaica)

Food, Service and Ambiance: Nestled in the hillside of Canaan Mountain, this is consistently ranked the number one restaurant in Jamaica. A five-star organic farm-to-table eatery, guests enjoy creative Jamaican fusion menu options. Zimbali’s Mountain Cooking Studio promotes a laid-back, nature-loving Jamaican way of life and will invite you to visit the on-site farm and enjoy a cooking demonstration as a part of your dining experience. Note: Some reviewers mention that this isn’t the most accessible location to get to, so you’ll want to coordinate transportation along with your reservations.

Also read: The Best Las Vegas Restaurants for All Budgets

When planning your Caribbean foodie vacation (and if convenience is a top priority), you may want to consider visiting a Caribbean beach resort, as many of the top-rated restaurants are affiliated with luxury properties throughout the region. You’ll also want to make dining reservations—especially if you’re traveling in peak season (December - April). Keep in mind that traveling during hurricane season may put a literal damper on your entire trip—including your dining experiences. Here are some helpful Caribbean travel tips to consider.

Also read:
• What you need to know about Hurricane Travel Insurance
• Top St. Lucia Resorts

No one wants to think about food poisoning while on a beach vacation, especially while enjoying the bounty of fresh food available in Caribbean restaurants. If you’re an adventurous foodie hoping to explore as many flavors as possible, you’ll want to keep in mind that uncooked seafood and produce may put you at risk for a food-borne illness. Smart, seasoned travelers understand the importance of travel insurance, especially in medical emergencies like food poisoning. Learn more about the Importance of Medical and Dental Coverage.

Travel insurance plans from Generali are great for international travel and feature coverages— 24/7 Travel Assistance Services are included with all plans. So, if you need medical advice and treatment, a licensed physician can come to you without ever needing to leave your room, via our Telemedicine service included with our Medical and Dental coverage.

The Caribbean made the list of the 10 Most Popular Trips Covered by Travel Insurance. Find out why.

We hope this guide helps you follow your nose to some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. And, if you dine at one of these culinary treasures or know about other eateries that shouldn’t be missed, share your knowledge and photos with our community on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

*Telemedicine services are available during your domestic or international trip. Limitations may exist on the availability of prescription medication outside of the U.S.

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