Billy Joe's on the Beach

Walking around Port Lucaya looking for something to eat truly Bahamian. I was directed to Billy Joe's by a local taxi driver. Billy Joe's is right on the ocean and a taxi had just unloaded a group from the cruise ship so there was a crowd of 20 people. I thought it would be a long wait but boy was I wrong. The snapper and conch looked great on a couple of the tourist plate. By the time I got up to the window it was all gone. I ended up with wings and fries but the experience is one I will never forget. I met Billy Joe, his wife, daughter and grandson. I was so amazed by his accessibility and friendliness. The conch was cleaned right in front of you. It is a bit rustic but that is exactly what I was looking for. Right on the beach, good Bahamian food with easy access. Can't wait to go back and get one of those snappers.

Don't be put off by the phrase "slumming" above, it's not an indoor restaurant, there are a few picnic tables and a little lean-to that blocks the wind (believe me it works) right on the beach. I had the grilled snapper and my husband had the cracked conch. Both were fabulous. We watched them cleaning the conch, that's how freash it all is. Billy Joe himself prepared and brought out my fish and joked with me about requesting the head be removed. The beer was ice cold and the food, hot and perfect. Many locals came and had lunch while we were there. If you're looking for kitschy, psuedo caribbean atmosphere don't go, but if you want simple, excellent seafood, run - don't walk. It is so worth it!!