Of the many awe-inspiring, less visited destinations in the Caribbean, Anguilla tops the list – especially for foodies on the hunt for their next favorite dish. Known as the region’s culinary capital and boasting many well-established and emerging chefs, the island is home to extraordinary five-star restaurants, relaxing beach shacks, trendy food trucks, and everything in between.
Looking for authentic Anguilla restaurants where you can dine like a local? Whether you’re staying on the island or sailing over from nearby St. Martin or St. Barts while on a yacht charter, over 100 emerging and established restaurants await you.
Get ready to indulge! We’ve gathered the 6 best restaurants in Anguilla to treat your tastebuds to a one-of-a-kind local experience.
Best Anguilla Restaurants: 6 Authentic Spots to Dine Like a Local
Unwind at the Straw Hat
No matter the time of day, a meal at the Straw Hat is sure to please. Located in the Frangipani Beach Resort at Meads Bay in the West End Village, this beach-front destination serves relaxing meals in a comfortable open-air dining room.
Whether you prefer healthy sunrise smoothies or hearty seafood stews, Straw Hat offers a unique blend of luxury and relaxed dining. Frequently rumored to have “the best breakfast on the island,” diners can enjoy locally-sourced ingredients in a range of international dishes all day long.
Straw Hat’s doors open at 7:30 in the morning, and reservations are accepted until 9 o’clock at night! Of course, fresh tropical cocktails are always on the menu – a must while enjoying the nearly 360-degree ocean views.
We recommend stopping by for sunset, especially on nights when local bands perform on the shore. Check the Straw Hat Instagram @strawhataxa for details!
Let Loose At Tropical Sunset Restaurant & Bar
Although there’s no shortage of beach shacks along the Shoal Bay Village, the Tropical Sunset Restaurant & Bar takes the cake. Located directly on the beach, this trendy spot embodies the essence of local Caribbean dining.
The small open-air dining room feels like dining on a deck, but don’t be discouraged if it looks crowded. You can sprawl out at the shack’s beach chairs and order food directly to your umbrella. Plus, Wifi is included and parking is usually available.
As the name implies, the menu is focused on fresh Caribbean dishes. Check out the special catches of the day, or indulge in their iconic kebabs, lobster, conch, and BBQ. Don’t forget the pina coladas – they’re known as some of the best on the island!
Follow @tropicalsunsetanguilla on Instagram to stay up to date with the latest from the chefs.
Caribbean Charm at Roy’s Bayside Grill
A tour of Anguilla restaurants wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Roy’s Bayside Grill. Tucked into a cozy corner of the beach at Sandy Ground, this family-owned restaurant has been serving up authentic seafood bites since 1982.
No matter your palate, it’s no wonder Roy’s makes the list of Best restaurants in Anguilla for many travelers. With a casual ambience and family-friendly dining room, any type of visitor will find something to love – both on the menu, and in the ambience!
Roy’s most iconic dish is fish and chips, but carnivores will be thrilled by the open-air grill that can be viewed by diners. Chef Claire, the daughter of Roy himself, loves showing off her seasoning skills on the open fire!
As for drinks, cocktails can be sipped all day long. For a truly local experience, stop by on Fridays between 5 and 7 PM for a friendly round of Happy Hour specials. Reservations are recommended, so head to the website to book yours.
French Flavors at Jacala
Jacala may be located on the beach at West End Village, but the Meads Bay Pond cafe is reminiscent of charming European dining. From Lobster clubs to mahi-mahi and sirloin steak, Jacala is a must for anyone craving upscale international cuisine.
Visitors can choose between open-air beachside tables or the elegant dining room, where Mediterranean-style decor adds an elegant twist to every meal. Despite its European vibe, Jacala uses fresh local ingredients for an authentic dining experience. Fish is always a stand-out here, especially the fresh-caught tuna!
Stop by Wednesday-Sunday for lunch or dinner, and email Jacala for reservations.
Home-Cooked Cuisine at Sharky’s
It doesn’t get more authentic than Sharky’s Restaurant, an iconic local spot built around the chef’s original home. If you only have time to visit one Anguilla restaurant, let it be this one! It’s tucked away in the West End Village, just past Cove Road when heading West.
Despite its unique status as a house-restaurant hybrid, Sharky’s still feels like a spot for special occasions. With a stellar cocktail menu, vast seafood selection, and passionate staff, it’s hard to go wrong. Any seafood will stun, but keep an eye out for lobster. Some locals consider it the best lobster on the island!
Pro-tip: the lobster isn’t always listed on the menu, but ask your waiter if it’s available. The staff is very accommodating, and the dish will be worth it!
Sharky’s is open every day except for Saturday. Reservations are recommended, so reach out to Sharky’s with an email ahead of time.
Best of Quick Bites: Blanchard’s Beach Shack
If you’re determined to enjoy the best restaurants in Anguilla but don’t have much time, Blanchard’s Beach Shack is the perfect local spot for you. This shore-front destination is located in the West End Village, making it an easy addition to any beach day itinerary.
Think of Blanchard’s as the classic beach-front snack shack, but with a full menu of satisfying summer-y grub. Whether you’re craving fish tacos, grilled cubans, jerk chicken, or a simple grilled cheese, Blanchard’s has something for everyone. As for cocktails, Blanchard’s has every type of drink you’ll need – especially blended drinks with tropical flavors.
Unlike other beach shacks in the area, Blanchard’s is quick service only, so you won’t be able to reserve a table with waiter service. But with plenty of picnic tables and beach chairs scattered on the sand, you can still unwind with the whole family. Behind the shack, you’ll also find a shaded patio with cooler seating.
Craving something sweet? Try the coconut cheesecake. It’s one of the best desserts on the island!
Visit the Best Local Anguilla Restaurants by Yacht
For travelers to St. Martin, the easiest way to visit Anguilla’s restaurants is also the most refreshing: by yacht! Located less than an hour away from St. Martin by boat, Anguilla is a tantalizing addition to any sailing itinerary.
Whatever your level of yachting experience, we can help you enjoy the magic of the Caribbean at its very best with a Dream Yacht charter vacation from St. Martin. Ready for a culinary tour you’ll never forget? We can’t wait to show you around this one-of-a-kind foodie paradise.
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Learn more about yacht charters in St. Martin, or one of our many other worldwide destinations. Get in touch with our team today on 855.650.8902 or email [email protected] for more information.
