Aruba, known as “One Happy Island,” is a paradise for both beach and food lovers. Its cuisine blends Caribbean, Latin American, and Dutch flavors, showcasing its cultural diversity. You can enjoy fresh seafood and hearty stews, all bursting with unique tastes.
Aruba’s dining scene ranges from upscale restaurants to casual beach bars. Each offers a unique twist on local and global dishes. This guide highlights the best eating spots in Aruba, ensuring your visit is both tasty and unforgettable. For more details on where to eat, check out this guide “https://notipostingt.com/2022/04/26/donde-comer-en-aruba.”
Local Delicacies: Must-Try Dishes
Before we discuss specific restaurants, let’s look at some must-try local dishes:
Keshi Yena: This Aruban classic is a cheese ball. It’s stuffed with spiced meat, often chicken, and baked. It reflects Aruba’s culinary history.
Pastechi: These are popular street foods. They’re crescent-shaped, fried pastries filled with cheese, beef, or chicken.
Stoba: Stews are also popular in Aruba. Examples include Cabrito Stoba (goat stew) and Galina Stoba (chicken stew).
For a true taste of these dishes, visit The Old Cunucu House (https://notipostingt.com/2022/04/26/donde-comer-en-aruba). It’s a charming spot in a 150-year-old Aruban farmhouse. Here, you can enjoy various traditional dishes in a genuine setting.
Fine Dining Experiences
For special evenings, Aruba has top fine dining spots:
Carte Blanche: With just 14 seats, this intimate spot offers a surprise five-course meal, tailored to you.
Screaming Eagle: This restaurant fuses different cuisines. It has a dining room and lounge beds. Don’t miss the seafood.
Papiamento Restaurant: Housed in a 126-year-old building, it adds a local twist to fine dining. The Seafood Stone Grill is a must-try.
Casual Beachfront Eateries
No trip to Aruba is complete without dining with your toes in the sand. Here are some top beachfront options:
Passions on the Beach: This romantic spot on Eagle Beach boasts sunset views and a menu of fresh seafood and international dishes.
Pelican Pier Bar: Located on a pier over the Caribbean, this casual bar is ideal for drinks and seafood, all while watching the sunset.
MooMba Beach Bar & Restaurant: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, MooMba serves local and international dishes, with live music and events.
Hidden Gems: Local Favorites
To truly experience Aruban cuisine, venture off the tourist path and try these local favorites:
Zeerovers: This no-frills seafood joint in Savaneta is a favorite among locals. Choose your fresh-caught fish and enjoy it fried to perfection with traditional sides.
The West Deck: Located near the cruise ship terminal in Oranjestad, this open-air restaurant offers a great selection of small plates perfect for sampling various local flavors.
Eduardo’s Beach Shack: While technically a smoothie bar, Eduardo’s has become a local institution. It’s the perfect spot for a healthy breakfast or lunch, offering acai bowls, fresh juices, and vegan options.
International Cuisine in Aruba
While Aruban cuisine is a treat, the island also boasts an impressive array of international restaurants:
Madame Janette: Despite the French name, this restaurant offers a diverse international menu. Their almond-crusted grouper is legendary.
Yemanja Woodfired Grill: Offering a mix of Caribbean and European flavors, Yemanja is known for its expertly grilled meats and seafood.
Ike’s Bistro: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant offers a unique fusion of flavors, with many dishes prepared using their wood-fired oven.
Seafood Specialties
Given Aruba’s location, it’s no surprise that seafood features prominently in many restaurants:
Flying Fishbone: This romantic beachfront restaurant in Savaneta offers tables right at the water’s edge. Their seafood is always fresh and beautifully prepared.
Wacky Wahoo’s: Don’t let the casual atmosphere fool you – this restaurant serves some of the best seafood on the island. Their wahoo dishes, as the name suggests, are particularly good.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Vegetarians and vegans need not worry – Aruba has you covered:
Nourish Café: Offering a fully plant-based menu, Nourish Café is perfect for a healthy breakfast or lunch.
Elements: While not exclusively vegetarian, this beachfront restaurant at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort offers an extensive vegan menu alongside its regular offerings.
Desserts and Sweet Treats
Save room for dessert! Aruba offers some unique sweet experiences:
Aruba Marriott Gelato & Co.: Offering authentic Italian gelato in a variety of flavors, this is the perfect spot for a cool treat.
Linda’s Dutch Pancakes: For a taste of Aruba’s Dutch heritage, try the delicious sweet or savory pancakes at this charming café.
Tips for Dining in Aruba
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Reservations are recommended for fine dining restaurants, especially during high season.
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Many restaurants add a service charge to the bill. Check before adding an additional tip.
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“Island time” is real – service may be more relaxed than you’re used to. Embrace it as part of the experience.
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Don’t be afraid to try local specialties – Aruban cuisine offers unique flavors you won’t find elsewhere.
Conclusion
Aruba’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as the island itself. From upscale gourmet restaurants to casual beachfront bars, and from traditional Aruban dishes to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate. As you explore the island, let your taste buds guide you to new experiences and flavors. For a guide on where to eat, visit https://notipostingt.com/2022/04/26/donde-comer-en-aruba. Remember, dining in Aruba is not just about the food – it’s about embracing the relaxed island atmosphere, enjoying the beautiful surroundings, and creating memorable experiences. So pull up a chair, order a cold Balashi beer, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure through One Happy Island.
FAQs
What is the national dish of Aruba?
While there’s no official national dish, Keshi Yena is often considered Aruba’s signature dish.
Is tap water safe to drink in Aruba?
Yes, Aruba’s tap water is safe to drink. It’s actually some of the cleanest in the world, produced by a large desalination plant.
Are there any food festivals in Aruba?
Yes, the Eat Local Aruba Restaurant Month in October and the Aruba Food & Wine Festival in June are popular annual events.
Do I need to make reservations for restaurants in Aruba?
For fine dining restaurants and during high season (December to April), reservations are recommended.
Are there any typical breakfast dishes in Aruba?
Johnny cakes (a type of fried bread) and funchi (similar to polenta) are common in traditional Aruban breakfasts.
