Discover the 10 Best Restaurants in Aruba
Aruba is a beautiful Caribbean island with white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and a vibrant culinary scene. If you’re planning a trip to Aruba, then you’re in for a treat. In this article, I will share with you the 10 best restaurants in Aruba that you simply can’t miss. From local cuisine to international flavors, Aruba has something for everyone.
Top Statistics and Interesting Information about the 10 Best Restaurants in Aruba
- Aruba is home to over 200 restaurants.
- The average cost of a meal in Aruba is $30 per person.
- Aruba has a diverse culinary scene, with influences from Dutch, Spanish, and Latin American cuisine.
- The seafood in Aruba is fresh and delicious, thanks to the island’s location in the Caribbean Sea.
- The best time to visit Aruba for foodies is during the annual Restaurant Week in October.
1. The Kitchen Table by White
The Kitchen Table by White is a farm-to-table restaurant located in the heart of Oranjestad. The menu changes frequently based on what’s in season, but you can always expect fresh, organic ingredients. I had the pleasure of dining here last year, and I can honestly say that it was one of the best meals of my life. I highly recommend the grilled octopus and the chocolate dessert.
2. Passions on the Beach
If you’re looking for a romantic dinner on the beach, then Passions on the Beach is the perfect spot. The restaurant is located right on the sand, and the tables are illuminated by tiki torches. The menu features seafood and steak dishes, but the real star of the show is the sunset view. Make sure to arrive early to catch the sun dipping below the horizon.
3. Yemanja Woodfired Grill
If you’re a meat lover, then Yemanja Woodfired Grill is a must-visit. The restaurant specializes in Argentinean-style grilled meats, cooked over an open flame. The portions are generous, so make sure to come hungry. I highly recommend the ribeye steak and the empanadas.
4. Zeerovers
For a casual seafood experience, head to Zeerovers. This laid-back restaurant is located in Savaneta and serves up some of the freshest fish on the island. You can choose your fish from the daily catch, and it will be cooked to order. The portions are huge, so make sure to bring your appetite. The best part? The prices are very reasonable.
5. Madame Janette
Madame Janette is a local institution, and for good reason. The restaurant is located in a beautiful outdoor garden and serves up a mix of international and Caribbean cuisine. The menu is extensive, so there’s something for everyone. I highly recommend the seafood linguine and the goat cheese salad.
6. The West Deck
The West Deck is a beachside restaurant located in Palm Beach. The menu features a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine, but the real star of the show is the view. The restaurant is situated right on the water, and you can watch the waves while you dine. I highly recommend the fish tacos and the frozen cocktails.
7. Papiamento
Papiamento is another local favorite. The restaurant is located in a beautiful old Aruban house and serves up a mix of Caribbean and European cuisine. The menu changes frequently based on what’s in season, but you can always expect top-quality ingredients. I highly recommend the lobster thermidor and the beef tenderloin.
8. The Driftwood Restaurant
The Driftwood Restaurant is a hidden gem located in a marina in Oranjestad. The menu features seafood and steak dishes, but the real star of the show is the atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with driftwood and has a laid-back, beachy vibe. I highly recommend the shrimp scampi and the key lime pie.
9. Barefoot Restaurant
Barefoot Restaurant is a beachside restaurant located in the Manchebo Beach Resort. The menu features a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine, but the real star of the show is the location. The restaurant is situated right on the sand, and you can watch the waves while you dine. I highly recommend the ceviche and the coconut shrimp.
10. Wilhelmina Restaurant
Wilhelmina Restaurant is a cozy, romantic spot located in the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort. The menu features a mix of international and Caribbean cuisine, but the real star of the show is the intimate atmosphere. The restaurant only has a few tables, so make sure to book in advance. I highly recommend the surf and turf and the crème brûlée.
FAQs
What is the average cost of a meal in Aruba?
The average cost of a meal in Aruba is $30 per person.
What is Restaurant Week in Aruba?
Restaurant Week in Aruba is an annual event that takes place in October. During this week, participating restaurants offer special menus at a discounted price.
What is the best time to visit Aruba for foodies?
The best time to visit Aruba for foodies is during Restaurant Week in October.
What is the local cuisine in Aruba?
The local cuisine in Aruba is a mix of Caribbean and European influences. Some popular dishes include keshi yena (stuffed cheese), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), and funchi (a cornmeal-based side dish).
What is the seafood like in Aruba?
The seafood in Aruba is fresh and delicious, thanks to the island’s location in the Caribbean Sea. Some popular seafood dishes include grilled mahi-mahi, shrimp scampi, and lobster thermidor.
What are some must-try dishes in Aruba?
Some must-try dishes in Aruba include keshi yena (stuffed cheese), arroz con pollo (chicken and rice), seafood linguine, and grilled meats.