7 Divine Dining Experiences in St. Barths
St. Barths, also known as Saint Barthélemy, is hands-down one of the most gorgeous islands in the Caribbean. It is a go-to destination for society’s elite to unplug and recharge. This French island is actually a volcanic rock just eight miles square and is home to 9,000 residents. The lovely atoll has retained its character and charm with Creole-style cottages and mountainous landscapes that hug bright white sand beaches.
St. Barths is also brimming with many gourmet restaurants, seven of which we have highlighted for you here.
Bagatelle
Bagatelle is just pure elegance. In the heart of Gustavia, it pairs heavenly French fare with a selection of the finest wines and champagnes on the island. Cocktails are delicious, and strong. It’s the place to watch the yachts and enjoy the fine cuisine like truffle pizza, duck breast and local fish. The party heats up and the champagne starts flowing after 11 p.m.
Bonito
Located on a hill overlooking Gustavia’s harbor, Bonito is one of the island’s most famous restaurants, praised by foodies all over the world. Delicate forms and colors adorn this traditional and spacious colonial restaurant, with an open kitchen and a modern twist on exotic flavors. Perfect for those seeking a romantic gastronomic dinner, Bonito serves fresh, local seafood prepared in a myriad of ways. The spiny lobster risotto is a pleasure and the homemade ice creams are pure decadence.
La Langouste
For some of the finest French cuisine, La Langouste is where it’s at. There is a definite Creole influence on the menu. Fresh lobster is the restaurant’s specialty and you can choose your dinner from the tank. Lobster is grilled and served with three sauces. Also on offer is a wide variety of fish: sole meuniere, seabass, raw fish, tuna and sea bream. If you are a meat lover, you will not be left out and can enjoy lamb shanks, chicken kebab, beef and veal.
Le Tamarin
This elegant restaurant has some of the most stunning gardens on the island. Located in Saline, Le Tamarin is the ideal spot for a first drink, but also for a night out for dinner in its hut or main dining room. Le Tamarin is the place to be for those who want to be seen tasting delicious cuisine like sautéed king prawns, rice tagliatelle, wok-sautéed vegetables in a curry-coconut sauce.
Classy Villa Casa del Mar
Comprising two fantastically autonomous homes replete with individual pools and gardens, Villa Casa del Mar strikes a bold indoor-outdoor luxury living philosophy. With room for 12 guests, this luxurious villa is sophisticated as it is comfortable. Teeming with amenities, guests may look forward to an exceptional chef's kitchen, home cinema, and gym with adjoining shower, not to mention a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. Resembling a private nature park, there is no shortage of spots for sunbathing, gathering, dining, and soaking up incredible ocean views.
L’Esprit
L’Esprit is one of St. Barths’ most well-known eateries. The divine garden setting sets the tone for the delectable food to come. The most chic on the island lunch at L’Esprit in the high season. The cuisine puts a fresh spin on traditional French fare. The delicately flavored food is otherworldly: Start with mushroom ravioli, duck spring rolls, or sea scallop sashimi, and move on to full-bodied mains like a classic filet de boeuf and finish with homemade ice cream or sorbet. Once you have visited L’Esprit, you are sure to make it one of your go-to places.
L’Isoletta
L’Isoletta treats its guests to the most divine pizza at any hour of the day and into the late evening. Sit comfortably at one of the tables on the covered terrace and enjoy a true Roman-style pie. Try the pizza that bears the restaurant’s name, L’Isoletta: Cream cheese, arugula, cherry tomatoes, with a balsamic reduction. The freshest ingredients come right from Italy and are also used to make L’Isoletta’s lasagna and eggplant parmesan. Traditional Italian desserts are made daily.
Orega
Orega’s Franco-Japanese fusion fare continues to please even the most discerning diners. Smack in the center of Gustavia, Orega isn’t just a meal, it’s an experience. Lovers of fine food will not only get a feast for their palates, but one for their eyes as well. These dishes are beautifully plated. Order the confit duck or mahi mahi, or enjoy the Omakase tasting menu composed of seven or nine dishes paired with just the right Sake combination to accentuate this food adventure. But save room for the chocolate bomb to end a splendid meal.
Stay close to St. Barths’ best restaurants when you choose an LVH home on your next visit to the island. With LVH, not only will you be staying in a phenomenal home where you will receive full services and support, but we will also plan a tailor-made itinerary for you reflecting only things aligning to your desires and likes. We understand your time is a cherished commodity and your itinerary will reflect that. We invite you to reach out to an LVH client relations professional to get your St. Barths’ holiday planning started.