St. Thomas Foodie Tour: Sampling the Best Local Cuisine on a Cruise Excursion

As you step off your cruise ship in St. Thomas, you’re immediately hit with the vibrant sounds and aromas of the island’s bustling streets. The air is filled with the sweet scent of fresh fruit and spices, tantalizing your taste buds and beckoning you to explore the local cuisine. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through a foodie tour of St. Thomas, highlighting some of the best local dishes and eateries to sample on your next cruise excursion.

Preparing for Your Foodie Tour

Before embarking on your culinary adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead. Research popular restaurants and eateries in advance, taking note of their operating hours and menu offerings. You can also ask fellow travelers or locals for recommendations, as they often have insider knowledge on the best spots.

Transportation Options

Getting around St. Thomas is relatively easy. You can hail a taxi from outside your cruise ship, take a public bus, or even rent a scooter for the day. Be sure to negotiate prices with your taxi driver beforehand, and always wear a helmet if you decide to rent a scooter.

Local Cuisine Highlights

Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into some of the best local dishes St. Thomas has to offer:

1. Gumbey Island Barbecue

Located on the west coast of St. Thomas, Gumbey Island is a must-visit for any foodie. This casual barbecue joint serves up mouthwatering dishes like jerk chicken, conch fritters, and grilled fish. Be sure to try their signature Gumbey Island BBQ Sauce, which adds an extra layer of flavor to their already delicious offerings.

2. Magen’s Bay Restaurant

Overlooking the stunning Magen’s Bay Beach, this restaurant offers breathtaking views paired with fresh seafood dishes like lobster and shrimp. Their menu changes seasonally, so be sure to ask your server about daily specials.

3. The Fish Trap

This popular eatery in Charlotte Amalie serves up a variety of fish dishes, including their famous Fish Trap Sandwich, featuring grilled mahi-mahi on a baguette with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce.

4. Blue Moon Restaurant & Bar

Located in the heart of Charlotte Amalie, this restaurant offers an upscale dining experience with dishes like Coconut Shrimp and Jerk Pork Chops. Be sure to try their signature cocktails, which often feature local spirits like Cruzan Rum.

Additional Tips and Recommendations

In addition to trying these local eateries, here are a few more tips to enhance your foodie tour of St. Thomas:

1. Try Local Fruit

Fresh fruit is abundant in St. Thomas, so be sure to sample some of the island’s famous Mangos, Pineapples, and Coconuts.

2. Visit the Saturday Market

Every Saturday morning, the parking lot outside the ferry terminal transforms into a bustling market filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

3. Take a Food Tour

If you’re short on time or want to sample more of St. Thomas’ culinary offerings, consider taking a guided food tour. These tours often include stops at multiple eateries and provide insider knowledge on the island’s best dishes.

Conclusion

St. Thomas is a treasure trove of local cuisine, with plenty of options for any palate. By following this guide and doing some research beforehand, you’ll be well-equipped to sample the best of what the island has to offer. From casual barbecue joints to upscale restaurants, St. Thomas’ food scene is sure to delight even the most discerning traveler. So come hungry, and get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure like no other!