One of the most common questions people ask is where to go for good food.
And when on a tropical island, many folks also want great drinks, entertainment and views to go with that meal. Today I want to highlight a few places I have found to be exceptional while meeting that criteria. I will list them in order by location starting at Palm Beach and working my way south.
The menu is eclectic and they have a wonderful selection of signature cocktails to tempt you. And that ‘Vue’!
- La Terraza – Is an Italian Trattoria on Eagle Beach. Their dishes are made to order and you know it from the first bite! They have happy hour specials from 1-3 pm & again from 5-7 pm. Closed on Sundays. You will enjoy live music on Thursdays and Saturdays beginning at 6:30 pm. Located on a ‘rooftop’, you will also enjoy sweeping views of Eagle Beach. Sunsets are “WOW”!
- Habibi Express – If you are looking for a GREAT meal quick and without the fuss, (also without alcohol), you have to try this food truck. Located near the local market in Oranjestad, they offer Mediterranean cuisine that rivals any ‘sit-down’ restaurant. *The lamb shawarma is soooooo good! They often run meal deals that include a soda and/or fries. Grab some takeout and enjoy it at the beach! Since they are open Tue-Sun from 5pm until midnight (currently 9pm due to the curfew), it is an easy choice for a late night craving. No website, but you can find them on Facebook for the full menu.
- De Suikertuin Bistro – is located on one of the oldest streets in downtown Oranjestad on Wihelminastraat. A very quaint Dutch owned restaurant that serves local dishes that are home-made. Open for lunch and dinner, you will find healthy options as well as decadent deserts to please everyone. The outdoor garden area in the back is very cute and the staff is very friendly.
- Yemanja Woodfired Grill – Serving an international cuisine with a huge Caribbean influence, Yemanja never disappoints! The location is right downtown in the midst of a ton of culture. Come a little earlier than your reservation to walk around and check out the town. My mouth is watering just typing about this place. It is very popular, so make a reservation in advance!
- The West Deck – I just love this place!
It is right on the water downtown at Governor’s Bay. The dining area is all open air with a casual feel. They specialize in small plates which I find to be a great way to try multiple items but not stuff yourself! They offer many local items. One of them being the very well liked, whole, red snapper. It is a sight to see. There are times I am on Aruba without my husband and I do not bat an eye at dining at this establishment alone. The staff is so amazing and take the time to really talk to you. They also have some pretty spectacular mixed drinks!
- Marina Pirata – is a locally owned seafood restaurant. If you really want some fresh catch while dining right on a pier, this is your spot. It doesn’t get much more fresh! Step out of the high rise area and check out this little gem in Pos Chikito.
They have lights under the water so you can see the fish swimming at night.
Would be a great place to grab dinner after spending time at Mangel Halto Beach or De Palm Island. Check it out! No website, but the menu is on their Facebook page
