St. Martin is undoubtedly home to some of the finest cuisine in the Caribbean. Both the French and Dutch parts offer epicurean experiences in abundance, with a choice of almost 500 restaurants.
Saint-Martin has become an ultra-competitive playground for Michelin-starred chefs, classically trained culinary wizards.
Although the Dutch side is much more Americanized (you’ll find KFC and Burger King, among other fast-food chains), it’s on this island that you’ll find some of the most interesting international restaurants. After all, it’s the melting pot of the Caribbean.
Sky Is The Limit, one of Saint-Martin’s best street restaurants
You need to know this to better understand the island’s culture: open-air barbecue stands are an institution on Saint-Martin. They serve large, delicious portions of grilled ribs, lobster, chicken or fish cooked on split metal drums. You’ll feast on garlic shrimp, goat stew, rice and peas, cod fritters and fish cakes. All for between 10 and 20 euros, a real bargain on Saint-Martin, where prices are high.
In Grand Case, the two best spots, Talk of the Town (tel. 590/29-63-89) and Sky’s the Limit (tel. 690/35-67-84), have covered seating, staff on duty and sea views.
These street food places are known as Lolos. After nearly 20 years in business, the reputation of this “establishment” has spread far and wide, so you may have to wait a while to find a seat at Sky’s the Limit. But you’ll forget the wait once you’ve sampled the ribs, fried whole snapper, lobster or chicken, accompanied by seasoned rice, plantain, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, coleslaw and green salad….A treat!
Hot Spot by Bush Tea SXM: a refined culinary experience in a trendy setting
The bartender’s tamarind martini is reason enough to stop by this Marigot lolo called Hot Spot. Daryl uses a blend of locally grown tamarind and vanilla to make this award-winning drink, along with Midori and maraschino cherries. “It’s more of a refreshing drink, not too strong or too sweet,” he explains.
The Hot Spot also specializes in burgers, pastas and grilled meat dishes prepared by chef Renoldo Fleming, who claims it’s the best food on the waterfront.
Breakfast can include caramelized French toast made from baguettes with bacon and fruit. On Fridays, the kitchen provides all barbecue cooking.
Another delicacy not to be missed is the chef’s gourmet turtle soup, sprinkled with tender potatoes. According to St. Martinese tradition, turtle soup is a natural Viagra. It is therefore particularly popular with the male clientele.
Villa Royale: the ideal place to relax in Saint-Martin with a delicious cocktail
Looking for authenticity? Today, the legacy of Saint-Martin’s famous Creole cuisine is carried on by locally-owned establishments such as Yvette’s Kitchen in the French Quarter, Villa Royale in Grand Case and La Petite Auberge des Îles in Marigot.
Villa Royale is a casual restaurant serving Creole classics like marinated whole snapper, goat curry and fish court-bouillon. You won’t find white tablecloths here. This is home cooking in a relaxed atmosphere.
Villa Royale’s homemade flavors are renowned throughout the island. The extensive menu is packed with marinated seafood and meat dishes prepared according to traditional local recipes. Don’t forget a cocktail or a cold beer at the bar to wash down the spices. Villa Royale is ideal for large groups and families. Prices are very reasonable (a children’s menu and a hamburger menu mean there’s something for everyone).
Fine dining and a friendly atmosphere at Atelier Bar à Viande et Poisson, Les Amérindiens in Orient Bay
Alexandre Deglise, originally from Lyon, came to Saint-Martin to work as a waiter on the beach. Today, he owns L’Atelier, a steak and seafood brasserie he runs with a team of Caribbean women he met during his 22 years in the island’s restaurant business.
Alexandre Deglise is happy to explain the blackboard menu to his customers, which features dishes such as Brillat-Savarin cheese stuffed with black truffles, Kagoshima wagyu, pan-seared foie gras, grilled whole fish and Creekstone Farms beef ribs.
Chef Sarah Honoré is only 24, but she’s an expert, while her colleague Orlane Germany, 22, looks after the dining room and presents the dishes at table.
Choose a bottle of Napa cab or Côtes du Rhône from the international wine list, or try one of Elise Agoha’s smoked Old Fashioneds and rums prepared with her ginger syrup. L’Atelier is by far one of the best restaurants on the island.
Eating and drinking at Oyster Pond
Oyster Pond is located where the two sides of the island meet. This area of the island has many interesting culinary offerings. Spectacular ocean views and the distant twinkling of St. Barth’s lights add an unforgettable touch to the culinary experience you’ll have here.
Infinity Restaurant and Veranda Market and Bistro are both located at Oyster Bay Beach Resort. Infinity combines Italian and international flavors to offer cuisine worthy of your palate. The latest addition, The Veranda Market & Bistro, offers lighter fare, including salads, sandwiches, pizzas, grilled meats, roast chicken and market-fresh produce.
Big Fish Seafood Grill & Hurricane Bar offers seafood. Its menu is inspired by Asia and the Caribbean. It emphasizes freshness with seafood from the daily catch of local fishermen.
Tropicana, for lovers of fresh fish and steak houses
If you’re looking for a great place to dine al fresco in Marigot’s marina, a place filled with charm and delicious cuisine, head straight to Tropicana.
The chefs produce a level of cuisine that you won’t find so easily in Marigot. Dining on the terrace is a must, as the view of the harbor and sailboats is magnificent day or night.
Tropicana offers bistro classics such as chicken cordon bleu and escargots in puff pastry. But seafood is a specialty. Try the sublime sole meunière. Desserts are architectural marvels, designed with sweet flourishes and made to be shared. Reservations are recommended.
This lively, popular bistro in the Marina Port La Royale is always busy, thanks to a varied menu, (relatively) reasonable prices and friendly staff. The salads are superb lunch options, especially the salade niçoise with medallions of goat’s cheese in a crust. Tropicana is known for its exceptional grilled steaks, and the wine list is very comprehensive.
Bonus
- JAVA RESTAURANT & BAR: Israeli-Mediterranean cuisine. The concept is to share everything on the table. Beautiful location in Grand Case.
- SPIGA: Italian restaurant in Grand Case (No pizza).
- L’ATELIER: For me, one of the best restaurants on the island! Top-quality meat, local fish and incredible service!
- SALE E PEPE: Italian restaurant in Simpson Bay.
- LE MAROCAIN: Middle Eastern restaurant in Marigot.
- JAX STEAKHOUSE: One of the best meats on the island, and the cocktails are not to be outdone! – I like the surf and turf with lobster.
- ALINA: If you like sushi, you’re in for an experience! They use the freshest ingredients and are very creative with the different dishes on the menu. The Sichuan hamachi sashimi, the Rainbow Bridge roll and the spicy lobster roll are succulent!
- BAMBOO HOUSE: Superb views overlooking the island and a magnificent open-air restaurant, with a chic, pleasant atmosphere. Asian cuisine, sushi, but other options like a fine ribeye, filet mignon or local fish are available.
- LE PRESSOIR: Very chic, romantic setting. One of the best chic French cuisines on the island (voted 4th best restaurant in the Caribbean). A true experience!
- LA TERRASSE: Located at the top of the West Indies Mall, a table in this restaurant guarantees an incredible view of Marigot Bay. The unpretentious French cuisine will delight your taste buds. I also recommend trying the homemade desserts. What’s more, the owners are very friendly.
- MARIO’S BISTROT: In a more intimate setting, at Cliff Tower. Mario’s has been a reference on the island for over 20 years. Innovative French cuisine.
- VILLA HIBISCUS: Chef Bastian invites you to discover his gourmet table. It’s a refined cuisine to be savored in an exclusive and intimate setting. The chef works with exceptional fresh seasonal produce, which is paired with a selection of prestigious wines.
