Restaurants in Aruba

An Aruba Restuarant is as special as any Caribbean adventure. Aruban cuisine is dynamic. Find the best Aruba restaurants in Aruba…

CARIBBEAN STYLE

Kamini’s Kitchen

The colorful building on the corner, right on your way to or from the beaches in Sero Colorado, has been sold. But the soul of Costa Riba Restaurant is still alive and cooking. Legendary couple Kamini and her husband Pete have temporarily moved to another location (their home) and are waiting to welcome famished guests with local specialties like their famous Curry Goat or Fried Red Snapper with Creole Sauce, among other mouthwatering Caribbean and vegetarian dishes. While preparing to open Kamini’s Place, locals and visitors can order daily specials for carryout or make advanced reservations for the Big Opening Event – the waiting list is growing by word of mouth alone.

www.10best.com/destinations/aruba/aruba/san…/kaminis-kitchen

Gostoso

In a small, yet smart space in the busy Oranjestad neighborhood, chef and owner Jose Do Nascimento returns to his Portuguese roots and serves up a fresh and flavorful menu. Gostoso, which translates to “palatable” in Portuguese, gives meaning to its name by offering a variety of local seafood, and Aruban, Portuguese and International dishes, passionately crafted to indulge the most discriminating foodies. House specialties such as the Criollo Sushi Roll for two with plantain, crab and a spicy home-made sauce; the most tender Lenga Stoba (Beef Tongue) ever; and Portuguese style Bacalhau (salted codfish) keeps this establishment on the radar of those with adventurous palates. Venture into dessert territory and meet the Quesillo di Coco (coconut flan) or stick to the ever-satisfying chocolate cake.

www.gostosoaruba.com

Arubaville

With or without a perfect sunset or an upscale menu, Arubaville (formerly known as Marandi) manages to stake its claim as one of the most romantic (and chilling!) restaurants in Aruba. The unique waterfront setting – an open-air palapa hut located on the beach with unobstructed views of the ocean – and an ample variety of small and larger dishes, makes this a lunch, dinner or tapas recommendation to pursue. Whether the choice is snacks and beer all day or a multiple course dinner with cocktails, find a true taste of the Dutch Caribbean’s ‘biba lekker’. Follow Arubaville’s road signs to get to this new mood booster behind the Reina Beatrix Airport. It’s worth the hunt.

www.restaurantsaruba.com/ArubaVille-Eat-Drink-Chill

The West Deck

This family-owned beach bar and grill is situated on one of the gorgeous beaches along the L.G. Smith Boulevard, called Governor’s Bay – the Governor’s house is right across the street. Being part of Aruba’s buzzing Linear Park, The West Deck embraces the calming views of the ocean where cruise ships and yachts sail by, airplanes descend for landing and fishing boats anchor in clear blue water.Whether the sun is reaching its highest point at noon or disappearing gloriously below the horizon, it shouldn’t be celebrated without a refreshing Beer-Rita, Mojito or an ice cold Chill (locally brewed light beer) out of the bucket. Try favorite small plates like Conch Fritters and Island Coconut Shrimps. Whatever the plan is; sharing plates or choosing your own entrees, having drinks or only dessert, lunch or dinner; The West Deck is the perfect place to find what island life is about.

www.thewestdeck.com

Papiamento

Papiamento is the native language of Aruba, and an authentic, Aruban villa built in 1886. Transformed into one of the island’s most cherished restaurants and run by the dedicated, local family Ellis. This historical cunucu house, filled with Dutch antiques and hand-carved furniture, is ideal for romantic dinners. For extra sparkle, ask to sit outside by the pool, surrounded by a vibrant tropical garden, fairy lights, candles and the stars above. Caribbean seafood dishes are without compare, especially the fabulous clay pot seafood medley. Try something “on the stone”; steak, lobster or fish served on a super-heated stone for guests to finish cooking at the table. For a typical local delicacy, taste the Keeshi Yena, a “family recipe” consisting of minced tenderloin and chunks of chicken stewed with fresh herbs and spices in a baked Gouda cheese crust.

Papiamento Restaurant – Aruba

Barefoot

While watching the sun set, a sailboat silhouette slides silently along the horizon, a couple of children play on the beach with no care in the world and a Barefoot Delight is the perfect cocktail to toast to an amazing evening . Elegant dining in flip flops? What about baring those feet to feel the cool, soft sands of Aruba before starting off with an exquisite Lobster Cappuccino topped with a vanilla froth. And if love is in the air, who could resist chef Gerco’s creative and mouthwatering combination of three different, fresh catches, alias the Romance Of The Sea. Tenderloin & Truffle for meat-lovers, Goat Cheese Tempura for vegetarians, Grand Dessert for the indecisive sweet tooth in all of us… Barefoot’s menu and monthly specials will always delight, no matter who you are, what you choose, how or when you drop in.

http://barefootaruba.com

Madame Jeanette

Part of the experience of Madame Jeanette is finding the place! Located out in the cunucu (or countryside) this award winning little eatery is under the stars of the beautiful Caribbean. Run by Chef Boris Druschkowitsch, the restaurant is named for the hot Scotch bonnet pepper which, in this part of the world, is called the Madame Jeanette after a famous South American courtesan. Try the Madame’s lobster raviolis appetizer or one of the delicious main courses which include a stuffed veal chop, the rack of lamb, the grouper, or the Butcher steak cut of out Tenderloin and marinated for two days in real lard and bacon from Austrian mountain farmers.

www.aruba.com/things-to-do/madame-janette

Ike’s Bistro

Located at the Manchebo Beach Resort, there’s the fairly new and already popular Ike’s Bistro. This young culinary team guided by Chef Ever de la Peña, draws inspiration from both, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean region. Cozy up at the poolside. Catch the evening sunset while sipping on a fresh fruit Martini. Discover skillfully prepared fusion dishes like herb-crusted scallops with avocado purée, pepper cilantro salsa and coconut foam; couscous paella of sautéed seafood delicacies with a light saffron broth over couscous. Or, if you’re in an adventurous mood, go on a delectable tasting tour by ordering the Chef’s four-course surprise menu.

www.aruba.com/things-to-do/ikes-bistro

The Kitchen Table By White

Aruba visitors who are familiar with White Modern Cuisine and Chef Urvin’s exquisite creations, will be thrilled by the news of his latest endeavour: The Kitchen Table By White at the recently opened Blue Residences. The menu changes every month, but there are a couple of recurring favourites like the “Tuna Mariná” salt cured tuna served with Aruban Spinach, healing Moringa leaves, pickled cucumber and other fresh, locally grown greens and herbs in a reinvented Creole sauce. And the “Jerked Cobia” (Black Salmon) surrounded by curry popcorn, pickled squash, Mango chutney and lemongrass saffron sauce swirls. Get acquainted with Aruba’s tantalising flavours, colours and textures, all perfectly concocted and sculptured to delight the senses.

www.thekitchentablebywhite.com

SEAFOOD

The Blue Lobster

There are a lot of high-end restaurants in Palm Beach these days, but The Blue Lobster is one of those places at which you can have a delectable meal without dressing up for the occasion. This small, intimate and very welcoming family-owned restaurant, operated by German Castano and executive chef Sandro Herold, features international cuisine, over 18 Lobster Dishes to choose from and is winner of The Certificate Of Excellence Award by Tripadvisor for 2012 and 2013. An extensive wine list and a well stocked bar including exotic Caribbean cocktails and house drinks complement attractive dishes like the Lobster Ravioli or the Spicy Lobster Casserole. Non-lobster guests can opt for Chef Sandro’s Tuna & Shrimp or Scallop Combinations, or savor a juicy Filet Mignon – if it’s meat-only. And if there’s still a spot for a signature dessert, try The Blue Lobster’s Tiramisu, it’s ample for two, but only if one is willing to share.
Phone : 297-586-3843

www.10best.com/destinations/aruba/aruba/palm-beach/restaurants/the-blue-lobster

Delimar

The Peruvian kitchen is known for its large variety and taste, blending distinct traditions and cultures like Spanish, Incan, African and Asian cuisines. For beginners, the curious, the hungry, or the more seasoned foodies: the only authentic Peruvian restaurant in Aruba serving traditional dishes like spicy Ceviche and Aji specials (seafood delicacy prepared with yellow chile pepper), is located in one of the most monumental streets in Oranjestad, the Wilhelminastraat. Although the draw is not its fancy looks, Delimar is a favorite place for many locals and tourists who appreciate big flavor, fresh seafood, and friendliness at a reasonable price.
Phone : 297-582-6139

www.visitaruba.com/sea-food/delimar

Marina Pirata

If you want to eat where locals have dined for decades, try Marina Pirata. This fishing pier restaurant has been serving fresh fish, seafood and a variety of Caribbean and international dishes to tourists and residents alike. Its comfortable ambience augments a menu that is familiar yet different. There is escargots in garlic, breaded squid and conch in oyster sauce that isn’t the standard version. At Marina Pirata, the friendly staff has been around since the opening day and some of the recipes, like the homemade Tiramisu and the Creole sauce, are from the owner’s mother, including the traditional sides of funchi hasa (fried cornmeal), pan bati (hearty Aruban pancakes) and fried plantain. And don’t forget to take a peek at the fishes, they’re also part of this romantic setting.
Phone : 297-585-7150

www.arubarestaurants.com/restaurants/marina-pirata

The Old Fisherman

A visit to downtown Oranjestad just isn’t complete without a rendezvous with The Old Fisherman, which focuses on local seafood and Aruban dishes, but also includes international options like US Black Angus Tenderloin and Seafood Linguini with Marinara or Alfredo sauce. Locals love this spot, especially for lunch and breakfast. So, prepare to feel a bit crammed and jammed. The tiny dining room is decorated with nautical items, fishing gear and many memorable photos of Aruban fishermen. The seafood courses are named after some of these local sea heroes and list interesting plates of sauteed conch called Jan Semeleer or a Claudio Wolf – a whole red snapper grilled, fried or any way you like. The beverage list features local beers, classic cocktails and the regular soft drinks. For a special non-alcoholic beverage, ask for a refreshing glass of ‘awa di lamoenchi’ (home-made lemonade).
Phone :297- 588-3648

http://oldfishermanaruba.com

Daily Fish

As much as some of us need our daily bread, there are quite a few who can’t get through the week without a good portion of freshly caught fish, or seafood. Daily Fish, located in the Super Food Plaza, is happy to oblige with a wide selection of local catches and imported quality seafood and fish from around the world. Famished customers are welcome to sample sizzling hot Fish and Chips with flavorful homemade sauces. Perfectly smoked specialties like eel and salmon, fresh seafood soups of the day or a salted herring, will keep the taste buds begging for more than just one day of fish.
Phone : 297-587-2224

www.daily-fish.net

Zeerover

Zeerover means Sea Pirate, but for locals it’s synonymous with ice cold beer and seafood at reasonable prices. With fresh off-the-boat fare, a laid-back atmosphere where you order from a window and eat outside, this cozy seafood shack in the heart of fishing village Savaneta is a haven for fresh catches of the day. The baskets of fried fish and jumbo shrimps are paired with local side dishes such as “pan bati” (Aruban pancakes), “funchi” (hearty cornmeal cake or fritters) and “banana hasa” (fried plantain). Grab a table on the wooden deck, play a game of domino with new friends while waiting for your order or just purchase fresh fish to go, if you want your catch grilled or steamed at home. These pirates only dig into the deep-fried.
Phone : 297- 584-8401

www.aruba.com/things-to-do/zeerover

Driftwood

Since 1986 Driftwood is a reliable seafood-driven restaurant, hidden behind the main street of downtown Oranjestad. Traditionally prepared, super-fresh seafood is the draw here – the owners catch their own every day. Broiled Caribbean lobster is always a solid choice, but the fresh catch of the day, prepared to your liking, is really the standout. Whether you opt for Aruban style (pan-fried with a Creole sauce), a la Meuniere (dipped in egg batter and sauteed with white wine and lemon), or deep-fried, your selection will arrive with sides of rice or potato, fresh steamed veggies, pan bati, the local hearty pancakes and fried plantain. Landlubbers will appreciate the steak and chicken options,.
Phone : 297-583-2515

www.driftwoodaruba.com

The West Deck

http://thewestdeck.com

The Old Man and the Sea

Perched right on the beach, this seafood restaurant, named after Ernest Hemingway’s most acclaimed novel The Old Man and the Sea, is one of Aruba’s most atmospheric oceanside spots. With new chef Christian and his culinary team, not only the setting, but also the food is a draw. Start with a Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail for two or a tasty pumpkin soup before enjoying sophisticated seafood dishes such as the beautifully presented Caribbean Lobster Thermidor. Or try the Fresh Catch of the Day served with a rich papaya sauce. Landlubbers can enjoy a Filet Mignon with mustard sauce and skillfully prepared sweet potatoes. So long as you’ve gone this far, you may as well finish off your meal with the popular Banana Foster or an Apple Tart. ((297) 584-3434)

http://theoldmanandtheseaaruba.com

Wacky Wahoo’s

There are a lot of high-end restaurants in Palm Beach these days, but Wacky Wahoo’s is one of those places at which you can have a satisfying meal without dressing up for the occasion. This small, intimate and very welcoming restaurant, owned by chef Harald Rudel and his wife Rossanna, offers only wild caught fresh Caribbean fish together with imported hand selected Argentine steaks and a fusion of Aruban and International cuisine. You’ll find sea scallops on a bed of Japanese seaweed and sesame pasta, smoked King crab, pan-seared conch, and Aruban ceviche with fresh lime and cilantro. The staff is friendly, the prices are moderate, and the Wahoos are not only wacky… they’re tasty, too!
Phone : 297-586-7333

www.aruba.com/things-to-do/wacky-wahoo

STEACKHOUSE

El Gaucho

Aruba has several excellent steakhouses, but El Gaucho stands out for many reasons. Not only are they celebrating 35 years of great food, great friends and memorable moments. This recently renovated townhouse in downtown Oranjestad is loved by locals, visitors from all over the world, couples, families, business groups, everyone who enjoys perfectly charcoal-grilled Argentine steaks , like the famous Gaucho steak or the Pincho Torro Caliente – the biggest shish kebab ever served. Apart from being the only restaurant in Aruba with a well-stocked Kids Play Room, El Gaucho also features two new private dining rooms for intimate parties and a wine cellar with an expanded collection of hearty reds to accompany your steak. For cigar aficionados there are some hard-to-find smoking treasures and an extensive variety of premium single malt scotches, cognacs, brandies and the finest port wines at El Gaucho’s sophisticated Cocktail Lounge Garufa.
Phone : 297-582-3677

www.elgaucho-aruba.com

Manchebo French Steakhouse

The French Steakhouse is known throughout the island for their special five-course “Ambassador’s Dinner.” For $34.95 diners get a choice of appetizer, soup or salad, entrée, dessert, and coffee or tea. Entrees include pasta meals, chicken dishes, filet mignon and the house’s special Churassco steak. An à la carte menu is also available. Dine under the stars on the wooden deck or indoors while listening to live piano music.
Phone :297-582-3444

www.manchebo.com/steakhouse

Texas de Brazil

Few restaurants can compete with the atmosphere – and, yes, the cuisine – of this colorful chain of Brazilian-style churrascarias. A family-friendly ambience pervades as diners enjoy a feast for the ages, one that features gaucho-wearing servers circling the South American-themed dining room with mouthwatering skewers of seasoned beef, chicken, lamb, pork and Brazilian sausage. Just pick what you want, and they’re happy to serve it up. Added temptations are Texas-sized side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes and sweet fried bananas – the extravagant salad bar has been known to turn heads as well.
Phone : 297-586-4686

www.texasdebrazil.com/locations/aruba/palm-beach/

L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House/The Lounge Midnight Grill

L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House is a classic American steakhouse with a more contemporary black-and-white color scheme jazzed up with warm wood floors, nearly-white stone walls and bright blue accent lighting. The trendiest tourists and hippest locals frequent the place, so while there’s no strict dress code per se, you’d be wise to wear your most stylish threads. Food-wise, expect top-grade steaks and perfectly prepared seafood with a good range of a la carte sides. The wine list is one of the best you’ll find in the Caribbean. And in Aruba, L.G. Smith’s is the one and only late fine dining restaurant available.
Phone : 297-523-6195

www.aruba.com/things-to-do/the-lounge-midnight-grill

Amazonia Churrascaria

Amazonia is a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, but the décor and ambience are decidedly island contemporary. Be prepared to consume vast quantities of meat here – there are typically about 15 different varieties, from top sirloin and filet mignon to Brazilian sausage and garlic picanha. Accompany all this meat with a trip or two to the impressive salad bar, which has enough variety to be a meal in itself, and is a great option for vegetarians. Other side dish options might be cheese bread, mashed potatoes, fried plantains and grilled pineapple. There are a number of good desserts too, should you actually have room for one more bite.
Phone : 297-586-4444

www.10best.com/destinations/aruba/aruba/northwest-coast/restaurants/amazonia-churrascaria

Tango Parrilla Argentina

You might be on Aruba, but a trip to Tango may feel like a trip to South America. You’ll want to start the meal off right with a big platter of Argentine sausages; stick with the theme and order the churrasco beef, douse it with piquant chimichurri sauce, and wash it all down with a robust Chilean wine. Inside tables benefit from a great view of a very talented couple that tangos across the stage, plus a view of the nine-foot open grill where all the meat is cooked. Outside seating isn’t neglected though – a band plays in the brick courtyard every night at 8pm.
Phone : 297-586-8600

www.tangoaruba.com

Pago Pago Steakhouse

Not as overwhelmingly masculine as most steak restaurants, Pago Pago’s ambience is considerably lightened by an elegant neutral color palette, rattan chairs, and tropical botanical prints. Whet your appetite with a luscious little seafood casserole or seared sesame-crusted tuna with wasabi remoulade and chili oil. For the main event, most guests opt for one of the Certified Angus Beef steaks with a traditional steakhouse side dish or two (garlic mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, onion rings), but there are a number of wonderful seafood selections such as macadamia-crusted grouper, as well as rack of lamb, veal or pork chops and roasted duck.
Phone : 297-586-4466

www.10best.com/destinations/aruba/aruba/northwest-coast/restaurants/pago-pago-steakhouse/

Le Petit Café

Casual and convenient, La Peteit Café is especially popular among hungry tourists. For fun people watching, sit upstairs on the covered porch, which overlooks the street. The food here is straightforward and well-prepared – seafood dishes tend to be quite good. The high point of a meal here is the novelty of an “on the stone” dinner. Meat and seafood is lightly grilled in the kitchen then served on a superheated stone which continues to cook the food at your table. A word to the wise: if you plan to have lunch here, avoid “on the stone” options – the heat from the stone combined with the ambient temperature and humidity is enough to diminish your appetite!
Phone : 297-586-1000

www.lepetitaruba.com

http://www.10best.com/destinations/aruba/aruba/restaurants/