Fueled by young French chefs who are constantly raising the quotient of excellence, Saint-Barthélemy’s gastronomic scene is superb. Prices are high, and the most sought-after tables are often booked well in advance in high season. But there’s much more to Saint-Barthélemy than Michelin-starred hotel restaurants. You can also dine out in more casual restaurants by the sea, on hilltops or in the harbor. Most of the island’s most popular establishments offer an affordable dish of the day for 10 to 12 euros. These include La Marine and the Wall House in Gustavia, and The Hideaway in Saint-Jean. If you’re looking for St Barts best restaurants, these spots, along with other local favorites, are definitely worth a visit.
L’Esprit, the must for French cuisine
For over 20 years, Jean-Claude Dufour has been one of the island’s best-known and most talented chefs. Since taking over L’Esprit in 2011, after running the kitchen at Eden Rock, Jean-Claude has created a gastronomic experience that not only showcases French gastronomy. He also incorporates local Saint-Barthélemy vegetables, freshly caught fish and meats, sublimating them with exotic flavors. Overlooking the Salines salt ponds, the teak terrace is romantic and rustic, set among palm trees and perfectly arranged shade sails. Duck spring rolls, lobster ravioli and classic beef tenderloin are among the many dishes on the menu.
Fouquet’s, chic French dinner in Gustavia
At Fouquet’s, enjoy a breathtaking view of Gustavia while savoring a cuisine that can only be discovered in Paris (and in this place). With a perfect ambience and panoramic views of Gustavia over the marina, you’ll be seduced by the setting and the environment. This spectacular experience continues with a succession of equally refined French dishes, from red tuna tataki to fillet of beef with Osciètre caviar. And let’s not forget a sweet finale with the sublime pastries offered by the house, in particular the millefeuille (to die for).
Tamarin, Creole cuisine in a superb setting in Gustavia
There’s something incredibly unique about the Tamarin restaurant. Perhaps it’s the 200-year-old tamarind tree that welcomes you to this hidden oasis. Set amidst a lush garden with real water lily ponds, Italian architect Johannes Zingerle has given the whole place a sense of magic and serenity. While soaking up the exceptional setting, the menus on offer at this Saint-Barthélemy restaurant are sure to please. For lunch, the menu is lighter and includes grilled fish, meats and salads, while the dinner menu features a myriad of more complex and sophisticated flavors. Try pan-seared foie gras, tuna tartare, chicken and hummus salad and prawns a la plancha with soba noodles. Rediscover the island’s “wild” side in this enchanting haven of peace. We recommend Le Tamarin for romantic dinners in this picturesque garden.
L’Isola, a taste of Italy in St Barths
For the best Italian cuisine on the island, be sure to visit L’Isola, a typical beachside restaurant. At L’Isola, gastronomy is defined by dark wood decor, candlelit tables and impeccable service. Chef Fabrizio Bianconi, a native of Rome, imports his ingredients exclusively from Italy to create an authentic menu. Homemade pasta, traditional meats and fresh fish from the daily market are sure to satisfy your cravings. Penne with langoustines, spaghetti with lobster and rack of veal with escalope are the star dishes on the menu, and a firm favorite with connoisseurs. The expertly selected wine list features some of the finest wines from across the Italian peninsula to accompany your delicious meal. Buon Appetito!
Eden Rock Sand Bar, casual Italian cuisine in St. Jean
The famous Sand Bar restaurant is located at the Eden Rock, an incredibly glamorous establishment right on the beach in Saint-Jean. Under the direction of Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, dishes are prepared with Mediterranean influences and an Italian touch. Discerning gourmets can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner here, tasting refined flavors that are always fresh and memorable. On the water’s edge, in a small protected cove, book a comfortable seat on the lounge sofas under the sun and let yourself be lulled by the island music of this Saint-Barthélemy restaurant. Don’t miss out on some of their classic dishes like truffle pizza, crispy salmon or pretzel-coated squid.
Orega, French and Japanese fusion cuisine in Gustavia
Located in the heart of Gustavia, Orega is a French-Japanese fusion restaurant where French classics are reinvented with a Japanese twist. Housed in a historic bungalow, the restaurant has been totally transformed to create a “garden party atmosphere”. The outdoor area with its enclosed bar allows you to sit back and watch the chefs meticulously prepare your sushi. Choose from fresh sushi, sashimi and a true fusion of cuisines such as Wagyu Beef Gyoza (dumplings) with mushrooms, or Toro Tuna with Petrossian caviar. Orega’s desserts are equally delicious, so don’t hesitate to end your meal on a sweet note.
Nikki Beach, legendary restaurant in Saint-Jean, Seafood, Lobster and Sushi
Nikki Beach is the place to be for jet-setting clientele who come to revel in fine dining, entertainment, music, fashion and art all in one luxurious location. This world-famous beach club is located right next to Eden Rock, on an incredible stretch of white sand beach that is the epitome of paradise. To complement the elegant atmosphere of the place, the menu is up to the task. Slow-roasted chicken, creative sushi rolls, raw bar and market-fresh seafood are customer favorites. Sip designer cocktails in a setting of simplistic beauty on an outdoor deckchair or in Nikki Beach teepees. Don’t miss the dragon sushi and a magnum of rosé to kick off a wonderful evening of celebration in this magical place!
Bonito Saint Barth, refined French and Latin cuisine in Gustavia
Perched atop Gustavia Bay in an elegant house is Bonito, a cozy lounge bar with spectacular views. Bonito offers a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere where it’s not unusual to see celebrities such as Simon Cowell, Beyoncé or Pippa Middleton! Executive Chef Laurent Cantineaux and Chef de Cuisine Ronan Mahe form an excellent duo in the kitchen, preparing cuisine with French, South American and Caribbean influences. Seafood is the highlight of their menu, as they are masters at incorporating the catch of the day into their dishes. Grilled tuna tataki with sesame, lobster risotto or ceviche are sure to please. And we have nothing but praise for Bonito’s tuna tacos and truffle fries.
