6 Best Restaurants in Aruba

The rich authentic flavors of cucina povera (peasant food made with fresh ingredients) from Southern Italy’s Calabria region now live in this massive family-style dining experience in the Metro Mall. Though service is first-rate and amenities a cut above a typical casual “trattoria,” you’ll not find any fancy fusion cooking here—just no-nonsense homemade offerings of pastas, sauces, and pizzas that Chef Laura Ianazzi learned at the apron strings of her Nona Rosa and Mama Caterina who grew up in Calabria. Enjoy stellar tableside service indoors or out.

Don’t let the rustic decor fool you: this is not your average Italian resort eatery, though it's an inviting choice for large groups. Da Vinci pulls out all the stops to present a seriously upscale, authentic, and creative menu of Mediterranean favorites. Tucked away in the Holiday Inn Resort, it’s well worth seeking out for killer incarnations of osso buco, homemade pastas, and seafood served Italian-style, plus great vegan options. There's also a fabulous wine room with a surprisingly comprehensive selection of vintages from around the world. It's family-friendly, too, with a kids' menu and big communal tables for groups. Dining at Da Vinci Ristorante is included in the resort's all-inclusive program, but it is also open to the public.

Overlooking Divi Village from a circular glassed-in dome, this elegant indoor affair is famous for its all-you-can-eat à la carte Royal Sunday Brunch that includes endless mimosas, as well as its unique late-night brunch every Friday night with entertainment and cocktail specials. Regular dinnertime offerings focus on upscale Italian fare, with classic pastas and Mediterranean favorites on the menu.

The cheery Ritz-Carlton breakfast spot known as Solanio takes on a whole new identity in the evenings as it transforms into Casa Nonna (meaning \"grandmother's house\"), dedicated to serving up authentic Italian cuisine. Service is exquisite (they even have a cocktail cart), and you can taste the care put into the handmade pastas and sauces. Don't miss the Mediterranean sea bass or grilled octopus for that real Italian coastal flavor, too.   Snag a table outside to catch spectacular sunsets and soft live music by the firepit.

Next to the iconic California Lighthouse in the former lighthouse keeper’s home, this restaurant is best known for its Italian fare and grand open-air terrace overlooking the rugged West Coast seascape. The menu offers a selection of gourmet pasta, pizza, risottos, fish, seafood, and meats served with classic Italian flair and an extensive wine selection. There are some good vegan options, too.  The restaurant's location and views make it a popular spot for events like wedding receptions, so reserve ahead to make sure they are open to the public. 

For first-rate Italian food, stellar sunsets, and an unpretentious environment, head to the Ritz-Carlton Aruba's indoor/outdoor Solanio. Large windows allow for lovely views from inside, and alfresco diners are treated to softly played live music, cooling trade winds, and a cheery bonfire. The food is carefully prepared in an open kitchen, and the atmosphere is casual. The smoky, braised short ribs make an outstanding start to the meal, and the risotto with wild mushroom and black truffle is woodsy and rich. Pizza and pasta menus have standout gluten-free options. Sunday brunch is becoming very popular.