Curaçao is a true undiscovered culinary gem of the Caribbean. From low key local food trucks to high end 5 star cuisine served right on the beach, there are endless opportunities for new tastes and experiences. Here are some of our top picks for enjoying the flavor and ambience of the island.
Situated at the top of a small cliff overlooking Willemstad, Ft. Nassau offers fine dining and a one of a kind 360 degree panorama of the city. While it was first built near the end of the 18th century, the restaurant was established in 1959 after the fort ceased its military activity. The property is rich with local history and much of the original structure remains intact. The menu offers both a la carte options as well as a daily 3 course pre-set. They are open for lunch or dinner, but we recommend making your reservation for sunset to make the most of the spectacular view.
At El Gaucho steakhouse you can choose from a great selection of prime cut Argentinian beef in a relaxed open air terrace setting. The restaurant is known by the locals for its quality meats, but they also offer pork, chicken, freshly caught seafood and a delicious soup and salad bar. As an added bonus, El Gaucho offers a shuttle service from many of the hotels, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your evening.
For a casual meal in the heart of downtown Punda you can’t beat the Iguana Café. Choose from sandwiches, salads or grilled local favorites to have alongside one of their tasty frozen drinks. Seated comfortably in the shade beneath one of the café’s umbrella topped waterside tables, you can enjoy the view of the Queen Juliana Bridge crossing over the busy harbor. They are conveniently situated directly at the base of the famous floating bridge along the picturesque row of brightly colored storefronts.
On the beautiful west side of the island sits Karacter beach and restaurant. Direct access to the water and use of one of their many covered lounges are available with purchase of food or drinks all day long. They feature locally sourced, fusion style fine dining as well as specialty coffees and cocktails. Saturday evenings are perfect for romance when you can enjoy a tiki torch lit meal with your toes in the sand.
Found in the center of the trendy Beach Boulevard is home to some of the best dining, shopping and nightlife options that the island has to offer. Greenhouse for example features Lebanese and Greek specialties like freshly made hummus with warm pita bread, crispy falafel and tender lamb shoarma.
For an unforgettable dining experience, head to St. Tropez Ocean Club. This upscale lounge features oceanfront seating with sleek modern décor including a swimming pool deck offering full service. They have an extensive wine list as well as top shelf cocktails, so it’s no surprise that their happy hour draws both locals and tourists who come to enjoy tapas style appetizers or a gourmet meal. For a refreshing taste of the Caribbean, we especially recommend the strawberry mojito. St. Tropez is open for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
The trendy downtown district of Pietermaai is often referred to as the Soho of Curaçao for its quaint mixture of restaurants, shops, boutiques and cafés. Break from strolling through the narrow, colorful streets for a quick coffee or a relaxing three course meal.
These are only a few of the many options available for tasting all that Curaçao has to offer. The eclectic blend of cultures has resulted in a unique culinary landscape full of world class flavors. Whether your visit to our island last weeks, days or even just a few hours you’ll find a range of choices for savoring every bite of your stay.