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The Caribbean is known for many things, not the least of which is its sheer beauty. Yet both the French side of Saint Martin and the Dutch side of St. Maarten also offer some of the best restaurants in the entire region. Sure, the area is known for its casinos, its magnificent sunsets, and its wonderful scenery — but there’s a lot more to experience when you visit an eatery, a beach bar, or a fine dining restaurant here.
Where is the best place to go for certain types of cuisine? It all depends on what you’re in the mood to eat, of course, but you’ll quickly discover that both sides of the island offer the kind of unforgettable dining experience you might be hoping to have. From mouth watering appetizers to hearty main courses, from the buzzy Mediterranean establishment to the lush French restaurant, from the steakhouse to the beachfront BBQ joint, you’ll find a little bit of everything on the menu in the Caribbean.
In fact, the dining scene is so diverse that you could be fooled into thinking you’re eating in New York! That’s just how much variety there is — and once you get a feel for the restaurants here, you’ll understand why diversity, variety, and depth of flavor play such important roles in defining the St. Martin dining scene.
Where to Dine in St. Martin
You’ll find plenty of wonderful places to dine in St. Martin. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood or have a taste for a new-to-you cocktail, you’ll find it on the menu at one of the many establishments on the French side of the island. No matter which eatery you choose, you can expect to leave satisfied. Here are a few spots you might consider.
La Villa Hibiscus ($$$$)
Atop Pic Paradis, which is the island’s tallest mountain peak, La Villa Hibiscus brims with elegance and charm. The swanky restaurant offers the perfect fine dining opportunity if you’re in the mood to dress up for dinner and feast on farm-to-table meals.
Here, everything is prepared with only the freshest ingredients. You’ll find fan favorites like poached chicken breast, grilled chestnut mousse, and seared scallops. Grab yourself a hibiscus cocktail while you’re there.
Anse Marcel Restaurant ($$$$)
Another elegant option is the Anse Arsel Restaurant, a beautiful establishment that lends new meaning to Caribbean style. The eatery is owned by a Cannes native, someone who knows a considerable amount about true fine dining. This space features open-air dining, where you’ll enjoy beautiful beachfront views.
Enjoy a glass of wine with your appetizers before turning to the main course, whether you opt for lobster or white fish. Have a seat at the beach bar if you want to sit back, relax, and enjoy a fruity cocktail while gazing at the picturesque sea before you.
L’Atelier Bar à Viande et Poisson ($$$$)
A forever chic choice that’s a must if you are interested in fine dining in the Caribbean, this lovely seafood restaurant has everything you need to satiate even the fiercest appetite — think wagyu beef, grilled fish, rib-eye steaks, and foie gras.
Complement your meal with a freshly prepared cocktail or something from the lengthy wine list. Considered one of the island’s most reputable restaurants, it’s the perfect spot for date night with a special someone.
Bistrot Caraïbes ($$$)
There’s no denying the elegance of this upscale French restaurant known for its fresh seafood. Sleek and modern, the eatery offers a menu packed with dishes as aesthetically pleasing as they are appetizing.
Since 1994, the restaurant has appealed to people who seek a fine dining experience while in St. Martin. The ambiance here is especially appealing, but it comes in second to the appetizing fare on the menu — including fresh lobster straight from the tank and decadent crème brulee topped with fresh strawberries.
La Villa Restaurant ($$$)
For purely French cuisine of the highest order, you won’t have to look beyond La Villa Restaurant. This beautiful establishment shines for its elegant ambiance, its menu packed with mouthwatering and authentic dishes, and its meticulously prepared recipes.
You’ll find escargot, foie gras, mushroom ravioli, French onion soup, sea bass filet, sesame-seared tuna, roasted sea scallops, warm vegetable tarts, and so much more. There’s also a vegan menu and an array of satisfying desserts to cap off your meal.
Hot Spot by Bush Tea Sxm ($$)
Think of this restaurant’s menu as classics with a twist. You’ll fall in love at first bite once you dig into the famed salmon burger — and if you’d like fries with that, they’ve got you covered.
There are also fan favorites like hearty cheeseburgers, shake and bake pork chops, salads loaded with your favorite proteins and vegetables, and plenty of grilled mahi and grilled shrimp to satisfy the most ardent seafood enthusiasts.
Rosemary’s Restaurant ($$)
Locals dub Rosemary’s Restaurant one of the best on the island — for good reason. Specializing in Creole cuisine, the eatery is known for its lobster specials, mouthwatering burgers, and breezy atmosphere.
Take a seat beneath the canopy and enjoy the crisp sea air as you dig into your meal and sip a cocktail or a can of ginger beer. You’ll enjoy a beautiful view of the Caribbean as you dine, too.
Le Cottage ($$)
In the warmth of the aptly named Le Cottage, you may simply forget that an outside world even exists. This cozy spot features details like brick accents and wooden ceilings, lending it an old-world appeal that is irresistible if you’re in the mood for dining in a more classic space.
On the menu is plenty of fresh fish. Ask about the tasting menu, sip on a glass of ice cold bubbly, and even take a seat outside if you’d prefer to enjoy the weather as you bask in the delights of the restaurant’s freshly prepared meals.
Lainez Bakery ($)
The family-owned Lainez Bakery is essentially an area institution. It’s warm and homey, but also vibrant and popular. In other words, don’t be surprised if you happen to bump into a line when you arrive.
Some of the favorites include refreshing fruit smoothies, orange-ginger juice, bush tea, croissants packed with seafood, guava paste turnovers, and delicious breakfast sandwiches that will fuel you for the busy day ahead.
L’Express Bakery ($)
If you’ve got baked goods on the brain, you won’t find anything more suitable than L’Express Bakery. The cute café, situated on the waterfront in Marigot, offers the kind of tasting journey you’ll have to experience to believe. There are freshly prepared croissants, cups of hot coffee, pain au chocolat, and creamy teas galore.
Enjoy a traditional pistachio financier while you’re here; the baked treat consisting of sweet brown butter and almond flour is a light and dreamy treat you’ll want to take home with you.
Sky’s the Limit ($)
Sky’s the Limit is one of many cool beachfront lolos in St. Martin. The lolo is a traditional type of Caribbean eatery featuring an open-air setup. There’s a very local, homey feel about this casual spot that offers beautiful views from its unassuming surroundings.
Sit down and dig into plates packed with classics, from the freshest meats to the most mouthwatering sides, including macaroni and cheese to coleslaw.
Where to Dine in St. Maarten
St. Maarten offers a lively scene. You’ll find plenty of nightclubs, beach bars, and opportunities for nightlife — but there are plenty of standard restaurants here, too. Whether you’re dining on a budget or are interested in a more high-end meal, you can find many delicious options on a variety of menus. Here are some of the highlights to seek out during your St. Maarten getaway.
Jax Steakhouse ($$$)
New York, but make it Sint Maarten? As you wish! At Jax Steakhouse, that’s the type of fine dining experience that you can expect the moment that you arrive.
On the menu is certified Angus beef prime and other premium cuts of meat, shrimp cocktail, burrata salad, vegetarian risotto, filet mignon, and sides galore, ranging from loaded baked potato to pan-roasted asparagus.
Courtside Café and Lobster House Restaurant and Bar ($$$)
You’ll find the popular Courtside Café at the Port de Plaisance resort in the country club. Housed in the area with tennis courts and the pool, it’s a vibrant restaurant that draws crowds who are just in from playing a match or having a swim. Yet you don’t have to be a resort guest to enjoy a meal here.
Stop by for a classic breakfast, or come in later in the day and enjoy fresh tuna tartar, mussels marinara, pan-seared crab cakes, lemon chicken piccata, seafood pasta, and so much more — all prepared fresh to your liking.
Indigo Beach Restaurant ($$$)
Offering a touch of chic, beachy charm, the Indigo Beach Restaurant is a favorite for a reason. It’s nestled between Philipsburg and Simpson Bay, and it’s where you can sink into joyful obliviousness as you set your feet in the plush sand and gaze at the water glistening before you.
Sip a glass of champagne or grab a seat at the super casual bar and munch on light bites or a plate of freshly prepared fish.
Alina Sushi and Sake Bar ($$$)
Located in Maho above the Casino Royale, this lovely Japanese restaurant simply oozes character. That’s evident with a glance at the stylish space, replete with rich crimson tones and sparkling golden lights.
At the helm is Chef Ken, who knows a thing or two about whipping up authentic Japanese cuisine thanks to his lengthy list of experiences in Tokyo, London, Taipei, and Moscow. He’s known for everything from his spicy tuna roll to his spider roll.
Gingerbread Café ($$)
The restaurant advertises that it offers the “#1 BBQ on Sint Maarten,” and that could well be true — but you’ll need to taste it to judge for yourself. It’s no secret on the island that they’re known for their mouthwatering BBQ, but they’ve also got other good stuff, like lobster and fish.
Some nights, you might catch live music if you come by at the right time. Have a seat outside and enjoy the fresh ocean air, or take a comfortable seat inside and enjoy the extremely laid-back vibe.
Spices of India ($$)
If you find yourself with an insatiable craving for Indian food while in Sint Maarten, head straight for Spices of India. You’ll find classic favorites like samosas and chicken korma alongside egg curry, vegetable biryani, butter paneer, and chicken jalfrezi, to name just a few.
The restaurant is renowned for its authentic recipes, and the cooks pride themselves on preparing simple, clean recipes without the use of heavy oils and gravies.
Lagoonies Bistro and Bar ($$)
For those who enjoy a side of live entertainment along with their main course, Lagoonies Bistro and Bar won’t disappoint. This stylish space offers epic views of the Simpson Bay Lagoon, with a wonderful open-air environment to complement their fresh dishes.
It’s especially a draw for those involved in the fishing and sailing industries. Come for the crabs, clams, and shrimp — and stay for the wonderful ambiance (and reasonable prices).
Izi Ristorante Italiano ($$)
Never underestimate the power of an especially satisfying Italian meal, which is precisely what you’ll get when you opt for a seat at the table here. They’ve got everything you’d expect, all expertly prepared with finesse and attention to detail.
Feast on a plate full of penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine; dig into breaded veal cutlets or chicken breasts or pan-seared salmon filets, and, of course, kick things off with some crispy bruschetta and calamari fritters. There are plenty of vegetarian options on the diverse menu, too.
The Palms ($$)
For authentic Caribbean fare, you can head to The Palms. It’s touted as the home of the “drunken ribs,” a fan favorite that draws people from miles. Yet there are plenty of other reasons to stop by this lively eatery that feels instantly welcoming from the moment you set foot in the door.
There’s a lot to try here, from the island-famous BBQ and the sirloin cheeseburger to the crowd-pleasing cheesecake and a variety of colorful and flavorful cocktails that are well worthy of a spot on your social media feed.
Caribbean Feisty Flavors ($$)
Locals know there’s just one place to go for truly authentic Caribbean flair — cooked fresh every time. The dining space here is warm and intimate, but there’s also some outdoor space if you’d prefer to dine in the open air.
On the menu are hearty breakfast platters packed with everything from French toast to saltfish, plus lunch dishes including chicken wings, ribs, and legume and sos pwa nwa.
Vesna Taverna ($$)
Near the Simpson Bay drawbridge, this restaurant provides a wonderful fusion dining experience. Offering American and French cuisine, the menu includes hearty burgers, wraps, and salads, plus plenty of traditional favorites for breakfast, including pancakes and omelets.
Come by on Saturday to enjoy Greek night, courtesy of chef Vesna, who is of Macedonian and Greek heritage. There’s something for everyone, from voracious meat eaters to those who crave a tasty Greek pastry.
Top Carrot ($$)
If you’re a vegetarian, you know it can sometimes be a challenge to find food that’s filling on the menu at any given restaurant. Enter Top Carrot, offering a menu packed with vegetarian offerings galore.
Dig into a vegetarian omelet for breakfast and sip on fresh-squeezed juice whenever the craving hits. If you’re there for lunch, try the spinach mushroom quiche, the eggplant lentil curry, or the lentil carrot burritos — all are fan favorites.
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Whether you choose to dine on St. Martin or St. Maarten, you can expect to leave satisfied every time. Both sides happen to delight even the most ardent and picky foodies, which means there’s something for everybody, no matter your cuisine preference. From more casual haunts to upscale restaurants, these dreamy Caribbean haunts have it all.
Featured Image Credit: Andrey Bayda
