The laid-back lifestyle of the Virgin Islands offers a lovely paradox to the finest restaurants across the islands, providing guests with a relaxing and warm atmosphere with some of the sumptuous decors, breath-taking views and luscious cuisine. Whilst the attire is casual, the cuisine and service offers guests flavour and flair with imaginative, enticing and vivid dishes and cocktails. Our team of experts have to put together some of the best places to dine below, from distinctive local produce to Asian-inspired dishes, to help you decide as you meander on your luxury yacht charter.
1. Sunset Grille
Named after the golden sunset that diners experience in the al-fresco dining room, the Sunset Grille offers traditional Caribbean cuisine with a modern twist in a magnificent setting. From the waves lapping at your feet to the signature Lobster-tail dish and tantalising fresh cocktail in front of you, every detail is met to the highest of standards. Produce is local and colourful and the menu is prepared daily for that quality edge. With a chic décor that oozes warmth, the Sunset Grille is perfect for private dining or with a group eager to try their award winning wines and delectable grills.
Location: 6280 Estate Nazareth, St. Thomas (340 714 7874)
2. Havana Blue
Combine the warm flavours of Latin America with the exotic spices of the Pacific Rim, amidst floor-to-ceiling fabric sheets draped in the giant open windows lit by modish blue lights, and you’ll find yourself in Havana Blue. The food is delectable and unique with menus offering guests Miso Seabass, spicy salsas, Snappin’ Whole Snapper and Mojito Skirt Streak with Jalapeno Creamed Spinach. Unusually named dishes reflect the experimental and culinary artistry and if you can’t decide choose the ‘Chef’s Seven Course Sensation’, to ensure all corners of the menu are explored before heading down to the Sandbar for exclusive on-the-beach cocktails.
Location: Morning Star Beach Club, St. Thomas (340 715 2583)
3. The Old Farmhouse
Located amongst breath-taking countryside, The Old Farmhouse is a 200 year-old restored field house from a sugar plantation. The original stone walls, hardwood floors, brick arches and palm-lined courtyard make the restaurant exude distinctive character for a romantic and intimate fine-dining experience. Top chefs use the old-world charm and blend it exquisitely with contemporary high-quality cuisine for mouth-watering seafood and steak dishes. Sip on award winning wine from the wine cellar whilst enjoying French-inspired gastronomy of Deconstructed Crab Rangoon and Kirin Ichiban Brined Pork Chop.
Location: Mahogany Run Tennis Village, St. Thomas (340 777 6277)
4. La Tapa
La Tapa evolved from a small local tapas restaurant into a traditional dinner menu whilst retaining the high-quality delicious cuisine and warm island charm. The nightly changing menu reflects the limited availability of fresh ingredients on the island and the gourmet dishes presented time-after-time accentuates the daily challenge and enthusiasm for fine-dining. La Tapa consistently explores new methods of cooking to serve guests unforgettable meals such as Foi Gras “Croquet Monsiuer” and Sauteed Portuguese Octopus using fresh vegetables and meat.
Location: 37, St. John (340 693 7755)
5. Asolare
The al-fresco restaurant Asolare promotes ‘a leisurely passing time without purpose’, with a gentle ocean breeze and majestic sunset setting a majestic scene. Using the freshest local products and finest ingredients to create enticing Asian Fusion cuisine, Asolare creates a stylish dining experience with unique appetizers and tantalising mains such as Duck Confit or refreshing watermelon salads. With the menu changing nightly your visit will hold an exciting element of surprise whilst discovering new astounding cuisine.
Location: Galge Cove, St. John (340 779 4747)
6. Zozo’s at the Sugar Mill
Set high-up in the midst of native sugar plantations sits the idyllic converted sugar mill that provides diners with over 180°C panoramic views from the opulent terrace of the setting sun, peppered palm trees and azure Caribbean waters below. With a green-carpeted mountain backdrop the restaurant emanates around a large circular bar among stone walls and high-timbered ceilings for a comfortable atmosphere. From local produce, house specialities of Pistachio Crusted Local Mahi Mahi and freshly made bread, pasta and stocks, diners are temped back time after time - be sure to make a reservation.
Location: Caneel Bay Resort, St. John (340 693 9200)
7. Bleuwater at the Ritz-Carlton
Whether you’re looking for intimate private dining or indulging in exceptional food with friends and family, the Bleuwater is island chic and sophisticated. Overlooking the moon-lit Great Bay, dinner on the terrace is a majestic experience amongst the tropical surroundings for a cosy feel. The West Indies-style décor fuses with the elegant cuisine serving inventive local seafood creations and cuts of meat such as Wagyu Burger cooked to perfection on the grill for a melt-in-the-mouth sensation. Guests’ taste buds savour the luxurious flavours and there is even a delicious children’s menu to make for the perfect family occasion.
Location: 6900 Great Bay, St. Thomas (340 775 3333)
Take a look at our full area guide of the Virgin Islands to see what else is on offer during a charter itinerary of beautiful islands, or compare the wide range of superyachts for charter in the Virgin Islands by contacting your prefered charter broker.