Aruba It is much more than turquoise beaches and aquatic sports. In recent years, a place like Gourmet Capital of the Caribbean. With more than one hundred first -level restaurants and a culinary scene that fuses flavors of the world with local products, The Island invites you to leave the All inclusive resorts and surrender to the experience of eating well. From fresh shellfish in front of the sea to author cuisine with European influence, these are seven obligatory stops for those who want to savor Aruba.
The gastronomic evolution of the island is also explained by its human talent: A handful of chefs Arubeños has studied in high kitchen schools in Europe and Peru, and has gone through kitchens with Michelin stars. This formation is reflected in bold letters, respect for the local product and a creativity that positions Aruba as a first -level food destination.
1. The West Deck
Located on a wooden platform in front of the sea, in the area of the Oranjestad capital, The West Deck is a perfect postal of the relaxed Caribbean. Its specialty is the Creole and Caribbean dishes served in an informal environment: grilled shrimp, mahi-mahi with tropical fruit sauces and crawls glazed with local rum. The letter of drinks accompanies with mojitos, pineapple casting and beer Balashi, the most popular on the island.
2. Papillon
Inspired by the adventurous spirit of the famous Henri Charrière, Papillon combines French elegance with Caribbean touches. Its atmosphere refers to a tropical cell and its kitchen surprises: Escartes with garlic butter, duck confined with tamarind sauce, and desserts that mix Belgian chocolate with aruba fruits. Ideal for a special night in Palm Beach.
3. Caya
One of Oranjestad’s best kept secrets. Caya is an author restaurant that works with local ingredients, sea products and own garden. The menu changes according to the station, but always offers a sophisticated experience: Ceviches with mango, day fishing with lime foam and reinterpretations of Caribbean dishes with haute cuisine aesthetics. The place is intimate, perfect for a Slow dinner. His chef, formed in Peru and Spain, is one of the emerging figures of the new Arubeña cuisine.
4. Chance
With a contemporary design and cosmopolitan energy, Azar Restaurant & Lounge is the new Hotspot of the Arubeña scene. Mediterranean cuisine with Latin soul: creative tapas, seafood carpaccios, paella with sea fruits and made vegetarian dishes. At night, the lounge becomes a sophisticated bar with music and cocktails by author. It is in Palm Beach, near the most exclusive hotels.
5. L’Avenue
In front of Renaissance Marina, L’Avenue stands out for its Franco-Caribbean inspiration. The living room has Parisian style, but the menu travels flavors from the Caribbean with European refinement. Lobster to truffle butter, Steak Tartare with rum emulsions and foie gras on brioche bread are some of its proposals. A selection of boutique wines completes the experience. His kitchen is in charge of a chef trained in Lyon, who worked at two Michelin restaurants before settle in Aruba.
6. Moomba Beach Bar & Restaurant
To eat with your feet in the sand and without losing good kitchen. Moomba combines relaxed atmosphere with quality dishes: grilled fish, gourmet hamburgers, pastes and artisanal pizzas. During the day, it is ideal for a lunch overlooking the sea; At night, it becomes a bar with DJ and stoves. It is located between the Palm Beach resorts, on one of the most lively beaches.
7. Fifth of Carmen
In an old restored colonial house, surrounded by gardens and faint lights, Quinta del Carmen is a jewel of Arubeña gastronomy. International cuisine with local accent: abundant dishes, excellent wine letter and a service praised for its warmth. The Pargo fillet, the prawn risotto and the homemade flan are some of the unmissable. For a romantic dinner or special occasion. His executive chef, born on the island, formed in the Netherlands and Belgium and has managed to translate that experience into an elegant but close proposal.
Eating in Aruba is part of the trip. And these seven places show it: leaving the hotel not only is worth it, but is the passport to an island that is also savored.
By rn
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