Enticing Edibles

By Judy H. Fitzpatrick

George Bernard Shaw once said: “There is no love sincerer than the love of food.” Such love blooms in St. Maarten/St. Martin, a unique dining destination that offers a melting pot of cuisine options from the Caribbean and just about anywhere in the world. There are more than 300 restaurants to choose from with a wide array of offerings to romance taste buds, tempt appetites and even melt hearts. St. Maarten/St. Martin’s culinary prowess has propelled the island to the envious status of “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean.” Whether you’re a big spender or dining on a budget, you will be able to enjoy fine dining without breaking the bank.

Evolution
Food has evolved significantly in the Caribbean since the basic and traditional methods used by the Caribbean’s first inhabitants. Many popular dishes and cooking methods used in local restaurants today were inspired by the past. They have been refined and are now savored in fine-dining style.

What is known today as barbecue, for example, can be traced back to the Barbacoan cooking method used by the Arawaks, who used thin strips of wood to slowly cook meat, allowing it to be enhanced by the flavor of the wood. Barbecue is popular in St. Maarten/St. Martin and is a favorite around the island’s premier cultural event, Carnival, which takes place in April–May. During Carnival, nearly 100 food booths in the Carnival Mecca-Festival Village offer all sorts of barbecued meals around the clock.

Delicacies such as fish cakes, salt fish, pudding and souse are said to have been inspired by African slaves, who blended traditional methods and used staples around them to spice up their food. Even the use of fruits and vegetables, such as okra, callaloo, ackee and mangoes, in meals are traced back to the slaves.

Jerk cooking today, which is especially popular in Jamaica and found in some restaurants in St. Maarten/St. Martin, is said to date back to the process used by African men who cooked spicy meats over hot coals when traveling long distances.

Another dish with traditional influence is curry. Popular in many parts of the Caribbean, this stew is a staple in destinations such as Trinidad and Guyana.

With this potpourri of flavors, it goes without saying that Caribbean food has become richer due to the influence of cultures from all over the world. This richness is exemplified in St. Maarten/St. Martin, where the cultural diversity — over 100 nationalities residing in harmony — is reflected in the wide culinary options.

You can step into a local restaurant such as Yvette’s Kitchen in French Quarter, Enoch’s in Marigot or one of the restaurants in Grand Case, St. Martin, or the Fish Market in Simpson Bay, Fu2ion (pronounced Fusion 2) in Maho Plaza or Mark’s Place on Bush Road, St. Maarten, and savor local delicacies, some with traditional roots. There are also countless French, Dutch, Italian, Mexican, Indian and other restaurants with international cuisine options to tantalize even the most finicky palate. New eateries, such as Hard Rock Cafe in Philipsburg and The Taste Factory bakery in Simpson Bay, have also opened recently, adding more flavor to the dining scene. 

I crisscrossed the 37-square-mile island to share with you some of the tastier eateries. Step into any one for a great fine-dining experience and rediscover your love for food.

Smakelijk eten! Bon appétit!

Café on the Bay
Savor the rich flavors of Caribbean ingredients combined with the welcoming charm of St. Maarten/
St. Martin hospitality at Café on the Bay, a chic eatery where the stunning views and irresistible menu creations will soothe your every being. Café on the Bay is located on the edge of the Simpson Bay Lagoon in the heart of the lively Simpson Bay district. Watch mega-yachts dock as you dine on the open-air patio or sit in the air-conditioned interior. This trendy, casually elegant restaurant features a fun, Caribbean and international menu and a wide beverage list. Start your delectable sojourn with the crab back appetizer: a sumptuous serving of seasoned crabmeat with a sprinkle of mozzarella and tasty tortilla chips. For the main course try prawns stuffed with crabmeat and wrapped in bacon. Or try the stuffed fresh grouper infused with a portion of crabmeat. Come by in the afternoon and you can always ask for Chef Watson’s daily lunch special. Stop by during happy hour from 4–6:30 p.m. daily for specials on cheese, wines and beers. “Guests get that special one-on-one personal attention, which is our main focus. We specialize in fine dining, but it’s not the type of fine dining where you have to wear a tie. It’s the welcoming atmosphere and unique ambience that sets us apart,” says the manager. The restaurant can comfortably seat 52 persons at tables and 12 in the lounge area. Enjoy the nightly entertainment during the season. And feel free to take along your laptop; there is free Wi-Fi all around. Hours of operation are from 8 a.m.–10 p.m. during the season. Located at Welfare Road Drive #67 Unit six, Laguna View Condo Complex; Tel: 721-544-2030; E-mail: info@cafeonthebaysxm.com.

Hideaway Bar and Restaurant
True to its name, this restaurant is tucked away in La Vista Beach Resort in Pelican Key. This dining destination is set alongside an azure pool with picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea, including a clear view of neighboring Saba on a bright day. Hideaway Bar and Restaurant is great for persons who enjoy cozy, undisturbed dinners and personalized service — the type of service quite uncommon in high-traffic restaurants. The menu features a number of international breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Choices include escargot, chicken breast forestiere, pork tenderloin dijonnaise, stuffed crab backs and Creole-styled conch stew. Ask about their burgers, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Enjoy live entertainment on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, or let the star in you shine at Karaoke Wednesdays. Happy hour is from 5–6 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday. Located at Billy Folly Road #53 Pelican Key. It’s easy to find. Enter from Billy Folly Road in Simpson Bay, go through Pelican and keep your eyes peeled for the La Vista sign. Tel: 721-544-3005; 721-544-3010; E-mail: info@lavistaresort.com.

Jimbo's Rock & Blues Café
The aroma of sizzling fajitas will draw you in to this award-winning, “gourmet Mexican” restaurant where the focus is on “scrumptious food, delicious drinks, great service and a fabulous ambience.” Designed by Craig Spann, Jimbo’s is a must-visit. Dining areas surround a swim-up pool bar, landscaped with spot-lit palm trees and two waterfalls. Five varieties of chili peppers from New Mexico lend that extra authentic zing to Jimbo’s extensive menu. The portions are more than ample. Start your meal sharing a California calamari or a humungous deluxe nachos grande. For your main course, Jimbo’s boasts a wide mix of Mexican treats, from enchiladas, burritos and chimichangas, to sizzling fajitas. And for you vegetarians, all dishes have veggie choices, too. If you are a fish lover, you should try Jimbo’s grouper stuffed with crab cake chipotle.

Not in the mood for Mexican? Jimbo’s also offers the best baby back ribs “in the world.” They’re slow-baked in their own juices for five hours and really do fall off the bone. “Everybody says it’s the best they’ve ever had, and we recommend them to every table,” says Jimbo. Chipotle barbecue shrimp, a recent addition to the menu, features a choice of shrimp (heads on), scallops and calamari, or a combination of any of the three. It’s a dish that Jimbo says he “adopted” from an authentic New Orleans recipe and added some ingredients of his own. “It’s spicy, hot and yummy, sautéed in lots of butter and spices, and served with a bib cause it’s messy.” If you have to wait for a table, Jimbo’s sunken bar and handblown Mexican glasses invite you to try one of Rosie’s cooldown cocktails or a 41-oz. fish bowl “megarita” (if you dare!). Happy hour is daily between 4–7 p.m. or any time you’re in the pool. Ask about Jimbo’s dirty tequila. Pick up your favorite memento at Jimbo’s Boutique, which is stocked with Jimbo’s Mexican glassware, cowboy hats, baseball caps, T-shirts, beach towels and the one-of-a-kind Jimbo’s Island Fire habanero hot sauce. Located in the Simpson Bay Marina, behind Scotia Bank in Simpson Bay. Open Monday–Saturday from 11 a.m.–11 p.m.; Sundays from 5–11 p.m. Tel: 721-544-3600; Web: www.jimboscafe.com.

Lee's Roadside Grill & Bar
Fresh, tasty, big portions, low prices, relaxed atmosphere, kid friendly, good music and dancing. That’s a simple description of Lee’s Roadside Grill & Bar, a family-owned, award-winning seafood restaurant in the heart of Simpson Bay. Lee’s is built on freshness. Owner Lee Halley also runs Lee’s Deep Sea Fishing, a leading fishing services charter in St. Maarten/St. Martin that also happens to supply his restaurant with fresh catches, which are grilled to perfection and served with the rich flavors and great taste everyone loves. Try the grilled snapper fillet, mahimahi or yellowfin tuna, or savor the pan-fried wahoo topped with onions and carrots or fried shrimp with onions and peppers. Lobster lovers get to choose their own live lobster from the tank, which is then seasoned, grilled and served smothered in special garlic butter. There is also an appetizing selection of steak, chicken and ribs for meat lovers. Their island barbecue is also popular. This uncomplicated eatery, nine-time winner of The Daily Herald’s Best Seafood Restaurant, is located just off the main road in the bustling Simpson Bay area. The enticing smell of grilled delicacies is always emanating from the oversized grill in front of the restaurant. A kids menu is also available. Established in 1997 with four tables, Lee’s has found a special spot in the appetites of repeat customers and has blossomed into a popular eatery. The secret to great taste lies in the homemade seasoning, which will soon be available on the market. Catch the live nightly entertainment from 7:30 –10:30 p.m. Stop by for happy hour daily from 4–6 p.m. and 10–11 p.m. for the daily drink special. Open for lunch and dinner. Tel: 721-544-4233; E-mail: info@leesfish.com.

Saratoga Restaurant
Dine in comfort at Saratoga, an intimate and stylish lagoon-front eatery in Simpson Bay, where dining is always a pleasure. Culinary Institute of America graduate John Jackson runs the restaurant, which is set in a colonial-style building close to the edge of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. Jackson steered St. Maarten’s culinary team to victory at the Taste of the Caribbean competition, a testimony of his dedication to the culinary arts. Guests can dine in the cozy interior or sit on the waterfront terrace overlooking the lagoon and soak up the amazing views. Jackson’s contemporary style is reflected in the culinary options. The menu is vast and features seafood, chicken and vegetarian choices. Seafood lovers will enjoy the servings of fresh local fish, such as red snapper, Saban grouper, wahoo and yellowfin tuna. The French oysters, steaks, house-cured pork loin, organic chicken, lamb, duck and nightly pasta specials will satisfy appetites. Ask about the kids menu if you’re dining with little ones. The selection of wines and spirits is sure to tickle the fancy of any beverage connoisseur or cocktail novice. Order your wine by the glass or bottle. If you have a sweet tooth, you will love the in-house dessert options: triple cheesecake with berries, pear in puff pastry with caramel and more. Open for dinner. For reservations, call 721-544-2421 or e-mail reservations@sxmsaratoga.com.

Taloula Mango's Caribbean Café
The friendly spirit of St. Maarten flows through Taloula Mango’s Caribbean Café, a casual beachfront eatery on the Great Bay Beach Promenade (known as the Boardwalk). From the casual setting and relaxed ambience to the great food, friendly staff and fascinating entertainment, the two-level restaurant is the place to be anytime, whether to dine, grab a snack, or just drink and hang out on a breezy day. The menu has a wide selection of meals, snacks and finger foods for all appetites. There are vegetarian, seafood, beef, chicken and pork dishes, burgers, fries, and a long beverage list to cool you down on a sunny day. A kids menu is also available. Imbibe and unwind at the famous Blue Bitch Bar, where drinks and good times rule. Enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea from the patios or dine outdoors under the stars. Taloula is a great place to be for afternoon drinks. Friday evenings are particularly busy. There is live entertainment, usually when ships are in port, and happy hour specials offering half-off prices of drinks and snacks. When on the Boardwalk, in the vicinity of the St. Rose Arcade, keep your eyes peeled for the large sign. Open every day during the season for lunch and dinner. Tel: 721-542-1644/45/47; Fax: 721-542-1646.

The Ocean Lounge
Contemporary meets Old World charm at the modern Ocean Lounge restaurant in the Holland House Beach Hotel, which is perfectly located on the Great Bay Beach Promenade in Philipsburg. Dining in the Ocean Lounge’s open-air terrace, overlooking Great Bay with its white-sand beach and promenade, is an experience not to be missed while enjoying the island. 

The Ocean Lounge is continuously improving its menu to offer diners something exciting and new every time, while maintaining its quality and attentive service. The lunch menu features soups, salads, pastas, sandwiches, fish, steaks and finger foods.

Enjoy a three-course dinner from Chef Raymond Kaper from the Netherlands, who sharpened his skills at a few Michelin restaurants in Europe. One of Kaper’s signature dishes is the vitello tonato: thinly sliced, marinated veal with a tuna crème served with a salad of mini artichokes, caramelized onions and marinated mushrooms in herbs and olive oil. Or try the beef tenderloin rolled in bacon with seared portobello mushrooms, green asparagus, pine nuts, risotto and a red wine sauce. The restaurant offers a wide selection of French and American wines and features an interesting wine cellar. The choices range from elegant and affordable to the top chateau from France. Top off your experience with one of the freshly made daily desserts, ice cream or sorbets. Reservations are recommended. If you have a large group, that’s no problem; the Ocean Lounge sits about 90 persons. Enjoy live entertainment on Wednesdays. If you’re visiting around Christmas time, check out their popular New Year’s Eve party. Parking is easy. After 7 p.m. guests can park in the parking lot opposite the hotel. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tel: 721-542-2572; E-mail: robert@hollandhousehotel.com.

Zee Best
The awakening aroma of brewed coffee, breakfast platters and the freshly baked selection of French pastries will draw you in to this charming breakfast spot. Zee Best Restaurant and Bakery is the best place to start your day on the right foot each morning. Be warned! The fresh taste of everything will either make you prolong your stay or lure you back. Winner of The Daily Herald’s Best Breakfast Spot in St. Maarten multiple times, Zee Best serves an envious selection of breakfast options. More than 20 different types of pastries are hand-rolled and baked daily, fresh juices are served and hot coffees are brewed on the spot. As for eggs, have them any way you want — scrambled, poached for Benedict or in an omelet. Sweet and savory crepes, as well as homemade French toast, will tempt your palate. Zee Best’s almond croissant literally melts in your mouth; it’s a favorite and a must-try. Their cheater’s omelet, made of fresh egg whites, ham and goat cheese with onions, tomatoes and basil, will brighten any day. Breakfast is served until 2 p.m. each day, and lunch selections include sandwiches, salads, crepes and more. Don’t forget to stop by Zee Best’s newest takeout location, Zee Best Bakeshop. This is where all the magic and baking takes place and pastries straight out of the oven await you. In addition, a variety of sandwiches are available. They are made with bread baked in-house to go along with your brownies, coffees, smoothies, muffins, artisan breads and more. Zee Best restaurants in the Simpson Bay Yacht Club and in Port de Plaisance Resort & Casino in Cole Bay open daily from 7:30 a.m.–2 p.m. for breakfast and from 12–2 p.m. for lunch. Tel: 721-544-2477 or 526-3097. Zee Best Bakeshop, located at 100 Airport Boulevard (between Budget and Thrifty’s Car Rental), is open from 7 a.m.–6 p.m. On Sundays they close at 4 p.m. Tel: 721-522-1030; Web: www.zeebestrestaurant.com.

Radisson Blu Resort, Marina & Spa
A delectable experience awaits diners at the ultra-modern Radisson Blu. This spacious facility in Anse Marcel, French St. Martin, features two fine-dining restaurants: C Le Restaurant and Le Marché.

C Le Restaurant sits at the edge of the water and offers diners stunning waterfront views. Dine alfresco and feel the sand between your toes, the wind caressing your skin and listen to the water lapping on the shore. C Le Restaurant transforms into an upscale lounge and gourmet restaurant at nights. If you prefer a cozy and romantic indoor setting, take a seat in one of the restaurant’s two elegant President’s Pavilion dining rooms. The menu pays homage to French/Caribbean cuisine. Open from 12–3:30 p.m. for lunch and from 7–10:30 p.m. for dinner.

Le Marché, a market-style bistro, offers a daily selection of fresh fruits, pastries and desserts baked fresh in-house daily, and seasonal dinners. Diners can take their pick from a wide assortment of daily offerings starting at breakfast time. Themed dinners feature kiosks with brick oven pizza, rotisserie choices and more. Make your selection from the grill, pastas display, and salad and dessert bars for 35 euros (approximately US$41) and dine without burning a hole in your wallet. Free Wi-Fi is available. Open from 7–10:30 a.m. for breakfast and from 7–10:30 p.m. for dinner.

A Trip Would Not Be Complete Without ...

• A visit to the fish market in Simpson Bay. The cleaning process is fascinating to watch and a great activity for kids. And, you can find a plate of the typical island cuisine from island grilling legend Johnny Under the Tree.
• Cave de Marigot—located in the Hope Industrial estate on the road to Grand Case. It is a one-of-a-kind experience: a wine cellar and gourmet restaurant in one. Sit amid stacks of wine, imbibe on the finest ingredients from France, and soak up the atmosphere and the wine. The Grand Café, served with a selection of French chocolate, is about as good as it gets. No dinner service.
• Bread. Forget about counting carbs. Buy a loaf of crusty bread—there really isn't a bad loaf on the island—or ask a local for their favorite bakery. Slather on the Dutch or French butter and enjoy.
• Ice cream made on the island. The coffee, vanilla, passion fruit, coconut, raspberry and mango are amazing. They don't have all the flavors in one place, but they are worth the scavenger hunt to find and taste them all.
• Indian food. There are several places that serve this on the island, but Lal's across from the airport beats them all. Crispy nan and samosa appetizers and luscious fish, chicken and lamb—freshly cooked for you to your heat request, with perfumed basmati rice on the side.
• Sampling the many flavors of guavaberry at the Guavaberry Tasting Emporium in Philipsburg. The liquors and hot sauces are amazing, and the building itself is a gem of a historic building, with the ruins of an old synagogue in the back.

You'll just have to ditch the diet and enjoy more than three meals a day while in St. Maarten/St. Martin. Check out our Dining Guide to plan ahead and get the full details and contact information for reservations for the islands great restaurants!