Knowing that St. Martin is a blend of Dutch and French cultures already tells you that a visit to this luxury vacation hotspot is one sure to be a culinary treat. Whether you have booked a St. Martin luxury villa with a chef who pops by to prepare meals or you are on a St. Martin family vacation, be sure that you try some of the most popular restaurants and dining spots.
Because there are, quite literally, dozens upon dozens of places to enjoy everything from baked goods to enormous meals, it can be overwhelming. We have done the legwork for you, though, and offer a list of our favorite five restaurants to enjoy during your St. Martin vacation.
La Cigale in Nettle Bay
Just minutes from Marigot and Terres Basses, this waterfront restaurant is situated on Nettle Bay Lagoon Beach and is an unforgettable blend of Caribbean and French cuisine. The chef has created fusion delights such as their lobster ravioli and their beef Rossini. They also have a remarkably popular raspberry macaroon for dessert. Their cellar is one of the best on the island, and because it is a cozier and smaller space, reservations are a must.
Marios Bistro in Cupecoy
Located on the Dutch side of the island, they offer a truly innovative blend of Caribbean, Asian and French cuisines. Enjoy non-stop views from any table, or take a seat at the bar, and be sure that you order their signature dishes. The sashimi wahoo is a popular first course, and the beef carpacio or bouillabaisse will make your evening. They also are known for their lamb shank. Their cellar is not extensive but known for its excellent choices.
Le Cottage in Grand Case
Set in Grand Case, this award-winning spot is warm, welcoming and remarkably earthy and appealing. Their chef has specialized in world cuisine all around the globe, and chose St. Martin because he believed it gave him the best opportunity to blend his favorite foods and ingredients. They have a sommelier and a fantastic cellar, and offer some truly choice vintages from France ideal to the Caribbean based flavors. Reservations, sadly, are an absolute essential.
Le Pressior in Grand Case
Another French cuisine influenced spot in Grand Case, the exterior is a bold and colorful sight that draws the eye and tempts with its fun and funky looks. Owned by one family since the late 1800s, it is inspired by that era. However, the food is both modern and classic, and their kitchen has been an award winner for many years. French cuisine seems to be the main influence, but you will find many Caribbean flavors and ingredients to savor too.
Sol e Luna in Cul de Sac
Both a restaurant and a guest house in the Cul de Sac area, it is utterly romantic and charming. It is just above Mont Vernon and has views of Orient Bay. It is a fully restored property with elements distinctly Provencal in addition to being quite Caribbean. Be sure to ask for a table on the porch and order their lobster ravioli that arrives in a saffron infused broth, or savor a bowl of pistou as you sip a great wine.
Other St Martin Dining Experiences
These are but five of the many amazing dining options available to you on St. Martin. We recommend you also consider breakfast or brunch at least once during your St. Martin vacation.
For breakfast, be sure to visit Sarafina’s bakery on the Marigot waterfront or Zee Best restaurant in Simpson Bay.
For brunch, Ernest and Fidel’s is an absolute must. Fresh squeezed juices, Cuban inspired food and a sensational location in Porto Cupecoy’s plaza make Ernest and Fidel’s a can’t miss experience.
For lunch, Dreams on Nettle Bay and Palm Beach on Orient Beach offer chic and fabulous dining with a beachfront setting.
The restaurants of St. Martin range from formal to utterly casual, and each is a taste sensation that will have you yearning for the island flavors and ingredients long after you return home.