Omari Gates
Antigua and Barbuda is a melting pot of influences and cuisines, from French bistros to Italian restaurants, seafood shacks to tapas joints. The islands offer a varied and interesting choice of dining spots, from gourmet restaurants to colourful waterfront cafes, beach bars and fast-food outlets.
Over 100 restaurants can be found in Antigua alone, with a mix of local dishes, as well as West Indian, Italian, French, Chinese and Swiss-German fare. Its sister island, Barbuda, is famous for its fresh seafood, and the opportunity to dine in local homes and village shops.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Antigua Yacht Club Marina, Falmouth, Hilda Davis Drive, English Harbour, Dickenson Bay, Valley Church, St. John's, Jolly Harbour, Nelson's Dockyard, Turner's Beach, St Mary's St |
| Name | Cloggy's, Papa Zouk, Trappas Bar & Restaurant, Ana's on the Beach, Shirley Heights Lookout, Miracles of the Caribbean, Incanto Restaurant & Lounge Bar, Hemingway's Caribbean Cafe & Restaurant, Jacqui O's Beach House, C&C Wine House |
| Cuisine | Seafood, Italian, Caribbean, Creole, Mediterranean, French, Greek, Indian, Antiguan, International, Fusion, Asian, European |
| Notable Features/Dishes | Seafood salad, lobster, chicken shawarma, smoked salmon salad, catch of the day, butterfish, Barbudan snapper, goat curry, lobster linguine, gnocchi, risotto, eggplant parmigiana, grilled lobster, mahi-mahi, grilled shrimp, grilled lobster, jerk chicken, West Indian curry, pizza, rotis, curries, burgers, salads, cocktails, espresso martinis, sandwiches, tapas, rum punch |
| Ambience | Laidback, chic, fine dining, elegant, stylish, contemporary, casual, breezy ocean views, tropical, airy, bohemian, chic, swanky, colourful, rustic, colonial-style, sophisticated, quaint, quaint, beachside, tropical, magical, vibrant, lively, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, quaint, 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What You'll Learn
Seafood spots
Antigua and Barbuda is a melting pot of culinary influences, from exotic local dishes to West Indian, Italian, French, Chinese, and Swiss-German fare. Barbuda, its sister island, is famous for its impeccably fresh seafood. Here are some of the best seafood spots on the islands:
Papa Zouk
A casual, unpretentious restaurant in St John's, Papa Zouk is your best bet for a freshly caught seafood feast that won't break the bank. The restaurant is the brainchild of a duo of German globetrotters, but you won't find any European influence in the decor—think vibrant murals, tartan tablecloths, and fishing-themed decor. The butterfish and Barbudan snapper are superb, and a tangy layer of guava-pepper teriyaki sauce tops it all off. Papa Zouk also boasts an extensive rum selection.
Jacqui O's Beach House
This Saint-Tropez-inspired beachfront restaurant in Saint Mary's is run by British expat Lance Leonhardt. The whitewashed wooden abode boasts a pretty patio and comfy loungers facing out to the turquoise sea. On a clear day, you can enjoy spectacular views of distant Montserrat. Jacqui O's offers traditional Caribbean cuisine with a chic European twist—try the black pineapple gazpacho or the catch of the day. The manager-cum-mixologist also does the tastiest cocktails this side of St John's.
Sheer Rocks
Sheer Rocks is a popular spot that offers views that are every bit as sought-after as the food. The menu encompasses a tapestry of creative tapas, many of which can be served in larger portions, like umami-braised beef short ribs and truffle mac-and-cheese infused with porcini stock. Add sultry music and an admirable wine list (and inventive cocktails), and you have the recipe for a tropical St. Tropez experience.
Ana's On The Beach
Ana's On The Beach straddles the turquoise waves of Dickenson Bay, where refined culinary creations pair perfectly with the idyllic scene. An eclectic array of seafood dishes adorn the menu—the seasonal lobster is a must-try. If you tire of seafood, there’s also a solid selection of Italian fare and tasty vegetarian options. Prices are fair, given the stylish ambience and quality of the cuisine.
Miracles of the Caribbean Restaurant and Bar
Miracles of the Caribbean serves refined regional flavors in a warm and welcoming locale. Seafood takes center stage—the sautéed prawns and seafood pasta are divine. Fancy something different? The chef does a mean goat curry that packs a spicy punch. Although you won’t get water views, the elegant fairy-light-clad ambiance makes for a romantic night out.
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Caribbean cuisine
Antigua and Barbuda offer a wide range of dining options, from gourmet restaurants to colourful waterfront cafes, beach bars, and fast-food outlets. The islands' cuisine is a blend of national and international dishes with a Caribbean flair, reflecting their international status. Here is a guide to the Caribbean cuisine of Antigua and Barbuda:
Fungee and Pepperpot
Fungee (pronounced "foon-jee") is the national dish of Antigua and Barbuda. It is a boiled yellow cornmeal and okra dish, similar to Italian polenta. It is often served with pepperpot, a hearty stew of meat, vegetables, and dumplings. Fungee also pairs well with stewed saltfish, stewed red herring, or shad coated in cornmeal and fried.
Ducana
Ducana is a sweet dumpling made from grated sweet potatoes, grated coconut, sugar, flour, and spices. It is cooked in banana leaf packages in boiling water and commonly served with stewed saltfish and "chop-up" (a mixture of mashed, boiled eggplant, spinach, and okra).
Saltfish and Chop-Up
Saltfish and Chop-Up is a dish where salted cod is boiled, cleaned, and sauteed with onions, peppers, garlic, and tomato sauce. Chop-up can also be made from boiled and crushed pumpkin or green papaya and is often served with boiled or fried dumplings.
Fried Dumplings
Fried dumplings, also known as bakes or Johnny cakes, are golden-fried rounds that can be served with saltfish, corned beef, barbecued chicken, or fried fish. They are a versatile side dish that can also be enjoyed on their own.
Grilled Barbudan Lobster
Fresh Barbudan spiny lobster is seasoned and grilled, often served with lemon-garlic butter. It goes well with rice and peas, French fries, or a garden salad. Grilled lobster is a dish best enjoyed on one of Barbuda's beautiful beaches.
Goat Water
Goat Water is a soup made from stewed goat meat, flavoured with onions, peppers, garlic, thyme, cloves, and hot pepper. It is typically served with local Antiguan wood oven bread or fried dumplings.
Conch Water
Conch Water is a flavourful broth made from tender pieces of conch and seasonings. Like Goat Water, it is often served with wood oven bread or fried dumplings.
Seasoned Rice
Seasoned rice is a one-pot meal of rice and red kidney beans, seasoned with salted meats and chicken. It can be made with or without pork.
Local Drinks
Local drinks include mauby, seamoss, tamarind juice, raspberry juice, mango juice, lemonade, coconut milk, hibiscus juice, ginger beer, passion fruit juice, guava juice, and soursop juice. Alcoholic drinks such as Wadadli beer and English Harbour Rum are also produced locally.
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Fine dining
Antigua and Barbuda is a melting pot of influences, attracting people from all over the world with its fine cuisine, a blend of national and international dishes served with a Caribbean flair. The islands offer a varied and interesting choice of dining spots, from first-class, gourmet restaurants to colourful waterfront cafés, beach bars and fast-food outlets.
Jacqui O's BeachHouse at Love Beach
This Saint-Tropez-inspired beachfront haven, where white floorboards seamlessly integrate with the alabaster sands of Love Beach, is also where restaurateur Lance Leonhardt, dubbed Lancelot the Lionheart, holds court. The gregarious host is as much a part of the atmosphere as the seashell chandeliers and DJ booth, which he also mans. The mix of yachties, foodies, and the who’s who come for the superb service and excellent wine pairings selected by Lance and served in chilled glasses. Every evening at 6:15 pm the restaurant stands still as Pavarotti’s “Miserere” welcomes the sunset.
La Bussola
La Bussola means compass in Italian, and the pursuit of fine Italian cuisine will lead you to the Tagliaventi brothers and their genial staff. Dine on authentic Italian thin-crust pizza on the spacious verandahs to the hum of the Atlantic or enjoy creamy lobster bisque (when in season), crispy calamari, or grilled rack of lamb in the nautical-themed dining room. The bar is stocked with more than 300 international spirits and liqueurs and an extensive, but reasonably priced, wine list. Though the massive wrap-around balcony is the ideal spot to dine, be sure to douse yourself with repellent before you arrive—the mosquitoes are quite aggressive.
Sheer Rocks
Comprising a series of tiered wood decks carved into the cliffside, this popular spot offers views that are every bit as sought after as the food. The menu encompasses a tapestry of creative tapas, many of which can be served in larger portions, like umami-braised beef short ribs and truffle mac-and-cheese infused with porcini stock. Add a dash of sultry music, season with smashing views, complement with an admirable wine list (not to mention inventive cocktails), and you have the recipe for a tropical St. Tropez experience. Even with its finite space, Sheer Rocks has continued to expand—the Rock Terrace tier is primarily for tasting-menu dining, and a private lounge area has a tiny infinity pool and is fabulous for small gatherings.
Indigo On The Beach
With breathtaking views of turquoise Carlisle Bay in Saint Mary Parish, as well as an unbeatable seafood salad, Indigo On the Beach is the perfect restaurant to visit for lunch or early dinner—all the better to enjoy the sunset. The swanky Carlisle Bay resort, where Indigo is located, is also home to other top dining institutions in this Five Star resort, including East (a fancier option), OTTIMO! (spectacular pizza, perfect for beachside enjoyment), and The Jetty Grill (adults-only dining with even more spectacular seaside views).
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Beachside eateries
Antigua and Barbuda are known for their divine cuisine and array of restaurants and cafes, ranging from French bistros to Italian restaurants, seafood shacks to tapas joints. The islands offer a blend of national and international dishes served with a Caribbean flair.
Jacqui O's Beach House is an iconic beach destination overlooking Montserrat. It offers elegant patio dining and refreshing cocktails, with turquoise views of the water.
Indigo On The Beach is located on the breathtaking Carlisle Bay in Saint Mary Parish. It is the perfect spot for lunch or early dinner, with an unbeatable seafood salad and stunning sunset views.
Coconut Grove Restaurant & Bar is a seaside restaurant lined with towering palm trees and an expansive deck. It is the epitome of a Caribbean restaurant, with its white-sand beach and turquoise water views.
Ana's On The Beach is an eclectic restaurant and art gallery in Dickenson Bay. It offers an eclectic mix of art and culture, with outdoor seating areas where you can lounge and enjoy the local lobster, which is not to be missed.
BeachLimerZ is a local, family-owned bistro-bar on Historic Fort James Beach. This stylish, rustic beach bar features local woods, handmade copper light fixtures, and an extensive menu, including some of the best pizzas in the Caribbean.
Catherine's Cafe is a chic institution on Pigeon Beach, one of Antigua's 365 beaches. It is a popular spot for weddings, with its stunning sunsets and rum punch.
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International restaurants
Antigua and Barbuda is a melting pot of culinary influences, offering an exciting blend of national and international dishes served with a Caribbean twist. From gourmet restaurants to colourful waterfront cafes, beach bars, and fast-food outlets, there is something for everyone on these islands.
For a unique dining experience, visitors can head to the sister island of Barbuda, famous for its fresh seafood and the opportunity to dine in local homes and village shops, offering an authentic and colourful experience.
Ana's On The Beach
Ana's On The Beach is an eclectic restaurant and art gallery located in Dickenson Bay. With its outdoor seating areas, this institution has become synonymous with elegance, style, and grace, offering a blend of artistic and culinary delights. Be sure to order the lobster if it's in season—it's a must-have in Antigua!
Incanto Restaurant & Lounge Bar
Located in English Harbour, just a short walk from Nelson's Dockyard, Incanto offers elegant Italian cuisine and a sophisticated atmosphere. With oceanfront dining, the restaurant features a selection of pasta, seafood, and desserts such as panna cotta.
La Bussola
La Bussola, which means "compass" in Italian, is the place to go for fine Italian cuisine. Dine on their spacious verandahs to the sound of the Atlantic, or enjoy their nautical-themed dining room. The menu includes authentic Italian thin-crust pizza, creamy lobster bisque, and grilled rack of lamb. The bar boasts over 300 international spirits and liqueurs, as well as an extensive wine list.
Big Banana
Big Banana is a popular casual dining spot located in an 18th-century rum house. With modern rustic decor, this restaurant offers a range of dishes, including pizza, burgers, wraps, and local food. Try their catch of the day, paired with a fruit crush, for a true taste of the Caribbean.
Papa Zouk
Papa Zouk, located off the beaten path, is a rum shop disguised as a seafood joint. With kitschy decor, including madras tablecloths and lobster trap chandeliers, this spot attracts a diverse crowd. The menu features pan-fried snapper and garlicky gumbo, and the bar showcases over 100 rums from around the world.
Trappas Bar & Restaurant
With a bustling atmosphere, Trappas is a cosy eatery with a wide-ranging prix-fixe menu. The menu includes a rich and spicy seafood chowder, crispy calamari, and creamy seafood pasta. This restaurant is a favourite among locals and yachties, offering a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
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Frequently asked questions
Hemingway's Caribbean Cafe & Restaurant is a quintessential Antiguan eatery that serves Caribbean and Creole cuisine in a laid-back, casual locale. Caribbean Taste Restaurant is another great option, known for its homemade spicy sauces and chalkboard menu.
Papa Zouk is a great option for a freshly caught seafood feast that won't break the bank. Trappas Bar & Restaurant is another popular choice for its Caribbean-style seafood and rotating menu showcasing the catch of the day.
Incanto Restaurant & Lounge Bar is a great option for upscale Italian cuisine. Abracadabra Restaurant and Bar is another good choice for Italian cuisine with a local twist, including seafood dishes such as lobster carpaccio risotto.
