Taste the Caribbean: St. Croix's Hidden Gems
St. Croix, the largest of the three main islands that make up the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a culinary haven for foodies from around the world. The island’s rich history and cultural diversity have led to a unique fusion of Caribbean, African, and American cuisines, resulting in an incredible array of flavors and dishes. In this blog post, we will explore the top 5 restaurants and local eats that every foodie must try when visiting St. Croix.
Top 5 Restaurants
1. The Galleon Restaurant & Wine Bar
Located in Christiansted, The Galleon is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. This upscale restaurant offers an extensive menu featuring dishes such as lobster risotto, filet mignon, and roasted duck breast. With a focus on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the chefs at The Galleon create dishes that are both elegant and delicious.
2. La Reine Restaurant
For those looking for a more laid-back dining experience, La Reine is the perfect spot. This casual eatery in Frederiksted serves up mouth-watering burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as traditional Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and conch fritters.
3. The Beachside Cafe at Sandcastle on the Beach
This beachfront restaurant in Christiansted offers stunning views of the ocean while serving up fresh seafood and American favorites like burgers and salads. Don’t miss their signature dish, the “Sandcastle Burger” - a mouth-watering patty topped with lobster, bacon, and melted cheddar cheese.
4. The Old Stone Farmhouse Restaurant
Located in Annaly Bay, this historic farmhouse-turned-restaurant offers an intimate setting for a romantic dinner or special occasion. Their menu features dishes such as filet mignon, roasted duck breast, and pan-seared salmon, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
5. The Islander Pub
For those looking for a more casual dining experience, The Islander Pub is the perfect spot. This popular pub in Christiansted serves up classic American fare like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as traditional Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and conch fritters.
Local Eats
1. Mafolie Road Bar & Grill
This roadside bar and grill in Frederiksted is a local favorite for its delicious barbecue ribs, fried chicken, and steamed mussels. Don’t miss their happy hour specials, featuring discounted drinks and appetizers.
2. The Starfish Market & Cafe
Located in Christiansted, this casual eatery serves up fresh seafood, salads, and sandwiches, as well as traditional Caribbean dishes like jerk chicken and conch fritters. Be sure to try their famous “Starfish Salad” - a mouth-watering mix of greens, grilled shrimp, and mango salsa.
3. The Island Food Truck
This popular food truck in Christiansted serves up delicious island-style cuisine, including dishes like fried fish sandwiches, jerk chicken wraps, and conch fritters. Be sure to follow them on social media to find out where they’ll be serving next!
4. The Cruzan Rum Distillery’s Tasting Room
While not a traditional restaurant, the Cruzan Rum Distillery’s tasting room in Frederiksted offers an unforgettable experience for rum enthusiasts. Take a tour of the distillery and sample some of their delicious rums, including the famous Cruzan Rum Punch.
5. The Christiansted Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, the Christiansted Farmers Market comes alive with local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. Be sure to try some of the island’s famous fruit stands, featuring exotic fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples.
In conclusion, St. Croix is a foodie’s paradise, offering an incredible array of flavors and dishes from around the world. From upscale restaurants like The Galleon Restaurant & Wine Bar to casual eats like Mafolie Road Bar & Grill, there’s something for every palate. And don’t forget to try some of the island’s famous local eats, like fried fish sandwiches and conch fritters. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious meal, St. Croix has it all.
About Martina Flores
As a born-and-raised Caribbean enthusiast, I help travelers explore the USVI's best-kept secrets on us-virgins.com. From St. Thomas' vibrant nightlife to St. John's stunning national parks, I share personal experiences and insider tips on luxury resorts, local events, and hidden gems.