Savoring St. Croix: A Guide to the Island's Best Restaurants
The Ultimate Dining Experience in St. Croix: A Review of the Island’s Top 5 Restaurants
When you think of St. Croix, you probably don’t immediately associate it with fine dining. But this small island has a surprising number of exceptional restaurants that offer an unforgettable culinary experience. In this review, we’ll explore the top 5 restaurants on St. Croix and what makes them so special.
The Best Restaurants in St. Croix
1. La Tapa
La Tapa is a modern Spanish tapas restaurant located in Christiansted, the capital of St. Croix. This restaurant offers an intimate setting with a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for couples or groups of friends. Their menu features a variety of small plates, each carefully crafted to showcase the flavors and ingredients of Spain. Some highlights include their grilled octopus with romesco sauce, pan-seared scallops with garlic aioli, and their famous Spanish tortilla. With a wine list featuring over 100 selections from around the world, La Tapa is sure to impress even the most discerning palate.
2. The Galleon
Located in Christiansted’s historic downtown area, The Galleon is a Caribbean-inspired restaurant that serves up fresh seafood and local ingredients. This restaurant has been a St. Croix staple for over 20 years and offers both indoor and outdoor seating options. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including their famous conch fritters, seafood paella, and lobster thermidor. With a focus on sustainability, The Galleon is committed to using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
3. Izzy’s
Izzy’s is a casual beachside restaurant located in Frederiksted, St. Croix’s second-largest town. This restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it perfect for families or large groups. Their menu features a variety of Caribbean-inspired dishes, including their famous jerk chicken sandwiches, fish tacos, and conch salad. With a focus on using fresh ingredients and supporting local farmers, Izzy’s is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of the island.
4. The Caravan Bar
The Caravan Bar is a trendy cocktail bar located in Christiansted’s historic downtown area. This bar offers a variety of creative cocktails made with fresh fruits and herbs, as well as a selection of wine and beer. Their menu features small plates to accompany your drinks, including their famous grilled cheese sandwich and spicy shrimp tacos. With a lively atmosphere that makes it perfect for couples or groups of friends, The Caravan Bar is sure to impress.
5. La Bodega
La Bodega is an intimate wine bar located in Christiansted’s historic downtown area. This restaurant offers a variety of small plates to accompany your wine selection, including their famous prosciutto and melon. With over 200 selections from around the world, La Bodega has one of the largest wine lists on the island. Their menu features dishes such as pan-seared scallops with garlic aioli, grilled portobello mushrooms, and roasted beet salad. With a focus on using fresh ingredients and supporting local farmers, La Bodega is a must-visit for anyone looking for a sophisticated dining experience.
Conclusion
St. Croix may not be the first island that comes to mind when you think of fine dining, but it definitely deserves a spot on your culinary radar. From modern Spanish tapas to Caribbean-inspired dishes and everything in between, there’s something for everyone on this beautiful island. Whether you’re looking for an intimate setting or a lively atmosphere, these top 5 restaurants offer an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you wanting more. So the next time you find yourself on St. Croix, be sure to check out one (or all) of these exceptional restaurants and indulge in the ultimate culinary experience.
About Juan Rodriguez
Island-hopping expert Juan Rodriguez shares his passion for the USVI. A St. Thomas native turned travel enthusiast, I've spent years discovering hidden gems and luxury resorts on these stunning islands. Follow along for insider tips on St. John's national parks, St. Thomas nightlife, and everything in between – your ultimate USVI paradise guide.