There's no sign, so you'll have to ask the way to Cove Bay to find this quintessential Anguillian beach barbecue, part of the Gumbs family mini-empire of authentic and delicious eateries. The popular spot is freshly rebuilt after the hurricane in 2008. African-style hot wings, honey-coated ribs, saltfish cakes, curried chicken roti, and grilled lobsters are paired with local staple side dishes such as spiced-mayonnaise coleslaw, hand-cut sweet-potato strings, and crunchy onion rings. If your idea of the perfect summer lunch is a roadside lobster roll, be sure to try the version here, served on a home-baked roll with a hearty kick of hot sauce. The dinner menu includes crayfish tails and chicken in orange sauce. On Saturday afternoon a popular local band, the Musical Brothers, enlivens the casual, laid-back atmosphere.
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Reviewed by caribchakita from Bonaire on 9/14/08
We loved this spot. Funky, fun, casual and very local. Sat. afternoon is the time to visit to hear local music. We love the rotis and the beachview dining.
Reviewed by Scott_Leslie from los angeles on 6/24/07
We loved our lunch at Smokey's. The bay is beautoful to watch as you eat and drink. Sitting on the patio you feel like you're in Fiji.
We liked the island-infused menu. My wife's grilled snapper was her favorite meal on the island. If you come early in the afternoon beware. I was told that none of the signature chicken dishes were available because the delivery had not arrived yet.
The only other minor disturbance was the slow service. We were one of only 5 tables this afternoon and our lunch took over 2 hours from ordering to check out. Granted you could spend a worse two hours with that view, but it unnecessarily cut into our swim time that day.
Hint to beat "island time" - ask for the check when they deliver the food at any of the restaurants if you want to move onto other activitews swiftly.
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