We're headed to Anguilla for a short getaway and would love some restaurant suggestions, including at least one particularly nice place for a birthday dinner. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Veya was the absolute dining highlight of our last trip to Anguilla.

Oliver's is my favorite. You also can't go wrong with Blanchard's and I've heard wonderful things about their newly opened Beach Shack as well. I also love the Straw Hat and Jacala. Sandbar is more casual and great for cocktails and small plates, but, the setting right on the water can't be beat.

Also check out Barrel Stay in Sandy Ground. Great food, very casual. All the restaurants at Cap Juluca are birthday celebration-worthy. Well, lots of restaurants on Anguilla are celebration-worthy. Lots of good food on that small island.

Blanchards, Mango's & Picante

Mangos for fresh fish
Trattoria Tramento for Italian
Jacala for innovative cuisine
All are waterside and have wonderful food, service and ambiance.

All the above, plus:
Dolce Vita
Zara's
E's Oven
Da'Vida
Picante

Thanks so much for the suggestions!

In order of favorites: Veya, Veya, Veya, Mangos, Strawhat, Jacala for fine dining.

Great casual fare I can't' recommend Picante enough.

Another vote for Veya. I preferred the overall atmosphere at Blanchards, but liked the food better at Veya.

Add Hibernia to the list!

All Anguilla fans have their favorites! Last time we were there, we only ate dinner out a few times and unfortunately weren't able to make it to Veya (closed the night we tried) or Barrel Stay (booked for a private party).

We like Straw Hat a lot for lunch, but for dinner would choose someplace else.

Trattoria Tramonto has a fabulous location and setting, but we thought the Italian food at Luna Rosa was far, far better.

Jacala is wonderful -- innovative and fresh, plus a lovely setting.

For reviews from a local, check out the website/blog of Savannah Gallery: http://savannahgallery.com/. Frank has been living on Anguilla for over 15 years and has great taste in both art and food!

Tasty's is small but it has great food also. I think Chef Carty Daly does a great grilled crayfish and I tried it from other restaurants. Veya is a must visit and so is DaVida for the romantic ambience and good food. Picante is good Mexican food for an island choice.