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Restaurants Overview

Although most people come to St. Maarten/St. Martin for fun and sun, they leave craving the cuisine, and that's not surprising. Every day, delicacies are flown here from all over the world. Of course, you'll be able to find fine French cuisine, but foods from around the globe -- Argentine, Asian, Italian, Tex-Mex, Vietnamese, American, Bavarian, and of course creole and Caribbean -- make their way to the kitchens of the island's restaurants. Good food is available at good prices, but the price of fine dining in St. Maarten often reflects the high quality of the culinary creations.

During the high season, it's essential to make reservations, and making them a month in advance is advisable for some of the best places. Often restaurants include a 15% service charge, so go over your bill before tipping. Keep in mind that you can't always leave tips on your credit card, so carry cash, too. A taxi is probably the easiest solution to the parking problem in the main restaurant areas, particularly in Grand Case and Philipsburg. During the high season in Marigot there may be a problem, but 150 free parking spaces have recently been added near the waterfront and throughout the town; Grand Case has two lots -- each costs $4 -- at each end of the main boulevard, but they are always crowded.

What to Wear

Appropriate dining attire on this island ranges from swimsuits to sport jackets. For men, a jacket and khakis or jeans will take you anywhere; for women, dressy pants, a skirt, or even fancy shorts are usually acceptable. Jeans are fine in the less formal eateries. In the restaurants we list, dress is casual (and chic) unless otherwise noted, but ask when making reservations if you're unsure.