The Best Restaurants and Bars in Dominica

"This open-air, oceanside Creole restaurant snuggles behind a grocery store in Calibishie, a bijou town where locals, expats, and tourists mingle. While the short ribs steal the spotlight, there are also Caribbean favorites like yam, fried plantains, and goat curry. Top any dish with local hot sauce made from Scotch bonnet peppers (available for sale in the adjacent bodega). The gazebo offers stunning views of the water and Red Rocks, but avoid it on windy days when the sea spray kicks up."

"This lively beachside restaurant overlooks the yachts moored in Portsmouth’s sweeping Prince Rupert’s Bay. Retire here after swimming and lounging on the black sands for a cold Kubuli beer or cherry punch, plus ribs, lobster, and coconut shrimp. Make sure to also try side dishes like boiled yam, taro, or sweet potatoes, sometimes livened by plantains and breadfruit—these heavy carbs once fueled Caribbean slaves and remain a staple in Dominica."

"Stroll a rain-forested path—or hire a brightly painted rowboat and guide—to reach this open-air watering hole. It anchors a rudimentary botanical garden up the Indian River, one of the most famous Pirates of the Caribbean film locations. Try the Dynamite Punch, a stiff concoction allegedly containing 44 fruits. “One cup is good, two is better, but for three, we call 9-1-1,” cautions Guide James “Bond” Henry."

"This industrial-chic eatery has a covered patio and floor-to-ceiling doors that welcome good weather inside, all overlooking the ocean on Dominica’s east coast. Pagua Bay puts a strong emphasis on seasonal, farm-to-table fare—a commitment made trickier by Hurricane Maria’s destruction in autumn 2017. Still, the restaurant continues to serve reliable American fare with Caribbean twists, including ceviche, goat tacos, chicken Creole, and mahi-mahi salsa. Wash it all down with a frosty beer or coconut rum punch."

"Just south of the Kalinago Territory, this rustic hilltop bar overlooks Castle Bruce Beach. Dig into Creole specialties like callaloo soup, fried plantains, and grilled chicken, best washed down with infused “bush rums.’” Each politically inspired rum features a hand-lettered label, revealing ingredientsranging from hibiscus and pawpaw to more esoteric flavors like olive, eggplant, and lizard. Says proprietor Morris “Rudy” Smith, the “Obama tastes the best. He is a smooth fellow, full of everything good for you.”"

"The Lobster Palace scores high on service, seaside ambience, and Caribbean charm. At this northwestern, coastal hotspot, the signature crustaceans are boat-to-bib fresh and served flambéed or pan-fried in massive portions. Note that, when the waves kick up and ground the fishing fleet, the restaurant can sometimes run out of lobster. Never fear, however, as the chef turns out other great dishes like tenderloin, moules frites ,and shrimp in coconut sauce that are just as satisfying."

"Zamaan Named after the Creole word for “almond tree,” this flower-filled, open-air restaurant enjoys pride of place at the pioneering eco-boutique Rosalie Bay Resort. The kitchen employs healthy ingredients fresh from its organic garden in dishes like vegan gumbo, hummus with plantain chips, and a beet-goat-cheese salad. Omnivores should try the grilled lobster tail or citrus-honey chicken."

"The Great Old House Restaurant This local favorite bounced back to its pre-hurricane style and ambience quickly. Known for its prompt service, the classy Roseau eatery lies on the more upscale side, serving Caribbean classics like coconut shrimp, octopus stew, and jerk pork with pineapple. In particular, guests tend to rave about the elaborate tropical cocktails and red snapper grilled with chili peppers. When visiting, be sure to request a table for two on the plant-fringed balcony, which overlooks the street and serves as a romantic spot to people-watch."

"This restaurant is currently closed for hurricane-related repairs and hopes to reopen in October 2019 with a new dock. Located on the water’s edge in Roseau, The LOFT offers good food, local art, and friendly vibes right off the marina. A chalkboard menu lists local specials, but most guests are here for the famous grilled lobster and spicy mango chicken, served with breadfruit fries, plantains, and fresh garden salads. The knowledgeable chef is also more than willing to accommodate special diets should someone in your party need a vegetarian or vegan dish. Whatever you order, pair it with a tropical cocktail or glass of wine from the solid selection, then finish with the homemade ice cream for dessert. The restaurant is intimate, with just a few tables, but there’s a lovely porch for outdoor dining and an attached gallery with local art for perusing after your meal."

"Roseau’s only oceanside dining option, the elegant Palisades pairs sweeping water views with one of Dominica’s best culinary experiences. Here, creative dishes showcase the island’s natural bounty, including produce sourced from local farms and fish straight from the Caribbean Sea. Start with dishes like BBQ jerk octopus and sesame-crusted tuna with a soy-chili dip. Then, move on to the lion fish, served with green-banana croquettes and mushroom sauce. Fancy something lighter? Try a lentil-black-bean cake or callaloo soup, made with baby taro leaves, coconut milk, yam, and green bananas."

"Squeeze in a sundowner at this popular seafront watering hole right in Dominica’s capital city. Part of the Fort Young Hotel, Warner’s maintains hints of its building’s former life as an 18th-century military garrison. Time your visit to popular weekly events—including Monday’s “Manager’s Rum Punch” party, Wednesday’s “Unwine” evening, and a Friday happy hour with drink specials, a barbecue buffet, and live music—and don’t leave without trying the legendary rum punch."