8 Best Restaurants in St. Maarten, St. Martin and St. Maarten

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We've compiled the best of the best in St. Maarten - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Alina

$$$ Fodor's Choice

Located above the Casino Royale, in the heart of the Maho Reef entertainment area, Alina is known for its delectable Japanese dishes infused with local flavors. Enjoy classics like crispy shrimp tempura and teriyaki salmon, or sit at the sushi bar and let Chef Ken surprise you with his selections. After dinner, head to the rooftop Mimosa Skylounge for a postprandial cocktail and lovely views.

Balls and Wine

$$ Fodor's Choice

Appetizing tapas, delicious wine, and nicely crafted cocktails have earned this quaint restaurant with a quirky name a loyal following. Although the menu often features new creations, crowd pleasers like the Three Stooges taco trio, churrasco steak tataki, and meat balls with Parmesan cream are staples. Seating is limited, so a reservation is recommended, particularly on special evenings like Taco Tuesday and Wine Wednesday. Vegan and vegetarian options are available upon request.

30--A Airport Rd., Simpson Bay, St. Maarten
721-527–6146
Known For
  • Friendly owners
  • Intimate yet convivial atmosphere
  • Taco Tuesday and Wine Wednesday
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun.
Reservations essential

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Bamboo House

$$$ Fodor's Choice

Located in a hilltop villa overlooking Simpson Bay, Bamboo House offers stunning views and top-notch sushi created by chefs from spots like Nobu and Morimoto. The wine list is fairly extensive, and the lounge and bar stay open till late. There's also an on-site spa.

150 Union Rd., Simpson Bay, St. Maarten
721-523–1508
Known For
  • Innovative sushi and sashimi
  • Dynamic, upbeat ambience
  • Particularly romantic at sunset
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.

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Recommended Fodor's Video

Emilio's

$$$ Fodor's Choice

Emilio Wilson bought the plantation where his grandparents worked and died as enslaved people, which is now the location of the Rainforest Adventure park and this award-winning restaurant housed in an 18th-century sugarcane boiling house. The knowledgeable owner of this family-run establishment, Norman Wathey, is more than happy to talk to you about the "old days" while you dine on nouveau Caribbean cuisine. Dishes might include charred garlic octopus with spicy avocado puree, rosemary rack of lamb with mushroom risotto, or snapper en papilotte. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, and the wine cellar has more than 100 options.

59 L.B. Scott Rd., Philipsburg, St. Maarten
721-522–1848
Known For
  • Exceptional menu, cocktails, and Sunday brunch
  • Impressive wine selection
  • Historic atmosphere in a chic setting
Restaurant Details
Closed on Mon. No dinner Sun.
Reservations essential

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Izi Ristorante Italiano

$$$ Fodor's Choice

The acclaimed chef behind La Gondola in Cupecoy creates something extraordinary every night at this popular, cheerful, centrally located restaurant, where the pasta is freshly made, and the wine list is impressive.

67 Welfare Rd., Simpson Bay, St. Maarten
721-544–3079
Known For
  • Creative, hands-on chef
  • Gluten-free options
  • Noteworthy desserts
Restaurant Details
Closed Mon.
Reservations essential

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Mario Bistrot

$$$$ Fodor's Choice

With stunning ocean views, incredible sunsets, a memorable atmosphere, and culinary excellence, this popular restaurant is considered one of the best of the island's best. The menu features an artful mix of beautifully presented Continental, Caribbean, and Asian fish, meat, and pasta dishes—even the lunchtime burgers are elegant here. Desserts are lavish, highly original creations; if it's available, try the pear-and-macadamia tart with caramel sauce and salted-caramel ice cream.

Top Carrot

$$ Fodor's Choice

A popular breakfast and lunch stop, this friendly café offers fresh and tasty vegetarian entrées, sandwiches, and salads pastries, as well as excellent espresso, juices, smoothies, and pastries. Favorites include the house-made granola and yogurt; the pastry stuffed with pesto, avocado, red pepper, and feta cheese; and the cauliflower, spinach, and tomato quiche. The unique on-site gift shop sells Asian-inspired items, spiritual books, yoga theme T-shirts, and handmade jewelry.

Airport Rd., Simpson Bay, St. Maarten
721-544–3381
Known For
  • Large tea selection
  • Casual, cozy dining room
  • Free Wi-Fi and great gift shop
Restaurant Details
Closed Sun. and Mon. No dinner

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Zee Best

$ Fodor's Choice

Fresh-baked pastries (try an almond croissant), crepes, omelets, quiches, sandwiches, and salads make this friendly bistro popular at both breakfast (till 2 pm) and lunch. When you sit down, a basket of assorted pastries arrives, and you're charged for the ones you select. Breakfast specialties include the St. Martin omelet, filled with ham, cheese, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, and tomatoes. At lunch, consider trying the chef's featured spaghetti Bolognese.