"It’s all about the fruits of the sea at the Old Fisherman, a local favorite in the center of town. Although the decor is nautical and the dishes are named for seafaring icons, the atmosphere isn’t exactly what you’d expect on vacation. No matter, you—and the locals who pack the place at lunchtime—came for the food anyway. Among the must-try dishes are the Charlie Brouns (fried fish roe in garlic sauce), Juan Henriquez (grilled catch of the day in a mango-coconut-wine reduction), and the Jan Semeleer (conch). Pair your order with an ice-cold Balashi (the local beer) or non-alcoholic awa di lamoenchi (house-made lemonade)."
The place is geared more for the locals with good food but service that operates on 'island time' where there is no sense of urgency to anything. If you have the patience, you will be rewarded, especially if you ordered one of the seafood pasta dishes. The restaurant relocated and is now on the main road along the coast. Service hasn't gotten any better, still with a huge attitude, but worth putting up with as the food is still well made and presented.
Ty
Google
Nice good, good location. Came here as a group of 9 and were able to be seated right away. Drinks aren’t strong but from what I realize, drinks on the island aren’t strong at all. Did taste good though. Prices are reasonable and they give local discounts. Good taste good as well. Overall I had a good experience and would recommend this restaurant .
Tashi Galloway
Google
The fried cornbread was bomb i would say you have to try this if you go, the burger was good as well and the fries was fresh. My paella was ok but you can tell everything was very fresh and not frozen.
Tha Ice Man
Google
One thing besides some of the BEST seafood in Aruba which stood out to me. The Old Fisherman's service was in my opinion absolutely top notch. They were so friendly and attentative. I felt like I was in someone's home. They were serving up food you're going to be thinking about & want over and over again. The calamari sauce was spicy. I enjoyed mixing it with another sauce served with my fish.
Definitely trying it again. Actually I did have plenty of leftovers. Also I have to say the coleslaw was some of the best on the island.
Brent Dittman
Google
Had calamari for an appetizer and a very delicious plate that had snapper in a buttered garlic sauce for the main course. The sides were mashed potatoes and a rice pilaf with plantain. It was an amazing flavor and a wonderful quiet place to eat and enjoy a good meal. Did not wait at all and the service was excellent. Highly recommend to anyone wanting delicious seafood in Aruba.
Chrishaunda Bean
Google
Pretty good place! I had the salmon with creamy sauce and cajun fries. It was excellent!!! My cousin had the Mahi Mahi fish. It was a little dry and over cooked. Great Aruba Ariba drinks!
Ray Terwilliger
Google
We ate lunch during their happy hour specials while at Aruba on our cruise. It was close walking distance from the port and shops. We ordered ceviche as an appetizer and was perfect along with the fried pan bati (cornbread) as we waited for the fish and chips. It was a bit busy and took a while for the main entree. However, the food we had was excellent. Wait staff was friendly and and took care of us once the kitchen was done preparing the fish (mahi mahi) and chips. Lightly battered fresh fish and golden brown french fries. Raymond was our server and he was great. Even talked to us a bit outside after holding the door open for us.
Talisa
Google
We came here on a Monday early evening. The vibe was kinda off/awkward, it was quiet, the music wasn’t even on in the background for most part of the evening. Our waitress was very nice though. Service of the food and drinks was a bit slower than the usual. The food however was really good in my opinion. My fiancé found the food to be a bit cold, especially the rice. I can’t say for myself, because I didn’t eat the rice. I loved the presentation and what we ordered and shared together was filling.