Best Eats in Cruz Bay
While everyone has their favorite, we will break it down into categories so that you can decide what is best for you. Your vacation on St. John should be worry-free and deciding ahead of time where you will eat is a great way to savor the precious moments you have on the island. We have made a list from higher-end to casual and dare we say “cheap eats” that you can feast on while here.
Also, many people make their living in food service, so be aware that it is always a good rule to tip 18% or more, especially if the reservation is for over 5 people. Calling ahead is always a good idea, especially during the busy season. You can wear your flip-flops and you don't need to get too fancy, even fine dining can be more casual. Please do wear a shirt and shoes and cover up if you have a bathing suit on. It’s local custom to be a bit more discreet.
Fine Dining Top Choices :
The Terrace
An elegant tucked-away spot close to the shoreline in Cruz Bay. Especially known for its freshly caught seafood, there is also a fabulous wine list and an amazing assortment of unique Caribbean rums and drink offerings. You can also catch the sunset!
https://www.theterracestjohn.com/
Phone: 340-779-8550
Extra Virgin
Cozy, cultured, and eclectic Extra Virgin has the special feature of having its own rooftop and wall garden of herbs, greens, and edible flowers. The pasta is handmade and they pride themselves on sourcing local ingredients. They also have fresh locally caught fish and feature new menus weekly. The owners are also local and their love for St. John shows in their hospitality and food. http://www.extravirginbistro.com/
Phone: 340-715-1864
LaTapa
A long-standing local favorite, La Tapa has made a reputation for itself for having great-tasting flavors and fusions from French, Spanish, and Caribbean world cuisines. The salads and aged cheese plates are also especially tasty along with a glass of Dow’s 20-year-old Tawny Port wine.
http://www.latapastjohn.com/menu
Phone: 340-693-7755
Lime Inn
Another local favorite that has stayed current with the times, having been passed down generationally, this sweet hang-out spot has a great bar with a host of frozen and well drinks and a nice selection of fancy wines. We love the tantalizing selection of salads such as the “WAPA Salad” named after our Water and Power Authority made with fresh spinach, house-made blue cheese dressing, candied walnuts, dried cranberries, and gorgonzola cheese crumbles. The entrees include gluten-free options, fresh lobster, salmon and steak. The atmosphere is very personal and they strive to make everyone feel like family. While there, you also must have a piece of their famous Semi-Freddo key lime pie, with house-made whipped cream, it’s to die for! They serve lunch and dinner during the season.
https://thelimeinn.com/contact
Phone: (340) 776-6425
Authentic Caribbean:
De Coal Pot
With a sister restaurant on the island of St. Thomas, this little hidden gem is great for when you want to taste Caribbean food from recipes passed down generationally. There are traditional favorites like mutton, oxtails, fresh fish, and even roti. Side dishes that complement fungi (cornmeal and okra), dumplings, or ground provisions such as sweet potato, green banana, or (yuca)cassava. There are also local drinks like soursop, sorrel, and ginger beer. Be sure to ask about desserts. 340-714-2625 (Located next to Pink Papaya).
Food on the Go:
Little Olive
Our favorite spot to eat on the move is Little Olive. Located in the Parking Lot adjacent to the Fire Station, this well-loved Greek food van was created with health and convenience in mind. With authentic Greek origins, this family has lived on St. John for many years. Enjoy their welcoming hospitality and yummy food. Oh and now they have Breakfast!!!
Hours: 8:30-3:30 pm M-F
https://m.facebook.com/littleolivefoodtruck/
Phone: 340-998-5162
Casual and Easy:
Cruz Bay Landing
For an easy breakfast spot before heading to the boat, call in and place your order. They also have live music in the evening. A kid-friendly and casual atmosphere is located right inside Cruz Bay Park you can't beat the location. The coffee bar is really good too. Great place to sit and people watch also. The coconut shrimp is a winner. Fast, friendly, and fun.
Phone: 340-776-6908
North Shore Deli
Located inside Mongoose Junction, this is a perfect place to grab food before heading to the beach. The food is fresh, there are smoothies and baked goods- try their chocolate banana bread! There are also well-made sandwiches made with cut meats and vegetarian options. The grab-and-go section is good too if you are in a real hurry!
Hours: 7:00 - 5:00 pm (7 days a week)
Phone: 340-777-3061
