St.Maarten/St.Martin Restaurants
Web-surfers' Favorites
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What is your favorite restaurant? This page lists the reviews submitted to us in 1997 by travelers to St.Maarten/St.Martin. Our favorites and recently submitted reviews can be found on our other Restaurants-page. You can have your favorite restaurant listed here as well by e-mailing your report to food@gobeach.com. |
- Busby's Beach Bar, Oyster Pond (recommended by: Alan and Mary Ellen Krawec, Waterdown, Ontario) [December 16, 1997]
- "Busby's at Oyster Pond is a little out of the way (you definitely should have a car) but is worth the drive for lunch. Locals and tourists mingle at the bar and the tables, lunching on reasonably priced ribs, burgers and chicken while enjoying the view of St. Barts.
If you're REALLY adventureous (and NOT the one driving), try the rum punch-type concoction once known as Mike Tyson Punch (I discussed this with the barkeep---if it's been renamed Evander Holyfield Punch, it was my idea). It's the only cocktail on the island that I know of that's made with that gawdawful local liquor that they sell to unsuspecting tourists. Somone has actually found a use for it and the result is very good---but also very powerful. If you can drink more than one and still stand up, you're a hardier soul than I." - Restaurant Review (by: Jeff) [December 16, 1997]
- Jeff of JMB Communications has an extensive review of St.Maarten/St.Martin restaurants on his website as well as other island info.
- Rainbow, Grand Case (recommended by: Will Halsey) [December 15, 1997]
- "The Rainbow in Grand Case is one of the finest dining experiences we've had. David and Fleur are wonderful hosts, the food is fabulous, and the atmosphere is what dreams are made of."
- Restaurant Review (by: Wayne) [December 7, 1997]
- "Zee Best Breakfast in Marigot. It has the best croissants. They are about $1 each and I went there 3 times in a week for breakfast. I tried other croissant places, but none could compare. It is located on the road to Nettle Bay, near the museum.
I went to Turtle Pier in Phillipsburg to try their lobster. It was delicious, however the baked potato was cold, the french onion soup was bland and the service was bad. I had to ask to have my water glass filled (twice). The place was not even 1/4 full. There was no excuse. With all the choices available, I would not recommend this one. French onion soup, 1lb grilled lobster for $23.00
Speaking of french onion soup, I went to the Greenhouse in Phillipsburg, and it was the best I had. It was served with a johnny cake that was also great. After the lousy soup in Turtle Pier, I went back there the next day and ordered it again with 2 johnny cakes. $5.00
I tried Le Piccolo Cafe in French Cul de Sac. I did not have reservations, but was lucky enough to be seated in their only free table which sat 8. Another couple and a single ended up at the same table. We all ordered different dishes and everyone said the same thing "Excellent food at a cheap price, you could not get the same quality of food anywhere near these prices anywhere else on the island". I met a couple who vacations in SMX 3 months a year and they said they come to this restaurant at least 3 times a week. The presentation was great and so was the service. I think that the reason they can keep the price down, was that the waiters also helped cooked. I ordered a soup, appetizer, entrie and a dessert and it was $30 without tip. The chicken stuffed with bacon and mushrooms was delicious. My only complaint was that like all french restaurants, the portions were small. If only french restaurants served portions like Italians.
I went to Portofino in Grand Case and overall the food was good. Don't order the garlic bread though. For $2.75, I got 3 small pieces of french bread with garlic paste on it. I ordered the garlic bread, stuffed mushroom appetizer and lobster pasta for $26.
I also tried the Jerk Grill in Phillipsburg, it had great jerk. Second only to the jerk I have had in Mo Bay in Jamaica. The prices were very cheap. Breakfast can be had for $4.50. I had a jerk chicken leg and half a pound of pork for $6.50." - The Mini Club, Marigot (recommended by: Rick Van Weelden) [December 7, 1997]
- "I haven't seen the Mini Club listed here. Too bad. We've visited this restaurant for about ten years. It's in Marigot. Climb the several steps & you're in a treehouse environment. We go there on Wed. or Sat. That's when they have their buffet dinner. The price $40 per person (as of last April) includes EVERYTHING-food, unlimited carafes of wine & gratuities. Start with French onion soup, continue with pork, fish, salads, French pastries, etc. Some nights there is entertainment. Reservations are necessary, especially for the better tables. Aside from the very good food, we like the fact that we know what our bill will be before we get there. It's a regular on our vacation visits."
- Restaurant Favorites (by: Sheryl Sherfey, Oakton VA) [December 6, 1997]
- "My husband and I have been travelling to Sint Maarten for several years and have been to many restaurants. Some of the ones we once enjoyed have changed ownership and we have some new favorites. Our first choice is Le Pressoir in Grande Case. The food is superb and the owner, Stefan, used to be the chef at Tastevin. The restaurant is on the main drag but not on restaurant row, but those of us who have found it consider it a jewel. L'Alabama is another favorite. The owners, Pascal and Karin, are terrific, as is their food and ambiance. Mario's, located in Sandy Ground, is another exceptional choice. Mario was the chef at Rainbow and it hasn't been as good without him. In fact, we plan on welcoming in the New Year with Mario and Martina this holiday, as we will be down on the island that week. I could go on and on, but I must say that the dining on the island is the best anywhere."
- Two new restaurants in Grand Case (reviewed by: Paul B. Streng) [December 2, 1997]
- "Michael's Café is located right next to the bridge (south side) facing the water. They do a great American style breakfast, burgers and such for lunch all at reasonable prices. Michael is from Boston and has been on island (French side) for a while so he already has a following. I met him several years ago when he was working at another place. I went with several locals and was not disappointed. Great place to have early evening drinks and watch the sun go down. [Photos: P.B. Streng]
Toubagaille is a new restaurant located on the water in Grand Case, in the vicinity of Sebastiano. It is owned by Bobby Bouwer, the fellow that runs the restaurant at PJA [Princess Juliana Airport]. Toubagaille (29-38-70) does a great job at a very reasonable price. I ate there several times in August (just after they opened) and once on this trip. Quality was consistent both visits. This trip I had a smoked tuna steak that was great. The only criticism I could give is that our server (we had a group of 4) was a bit slow, certainly not enough so as to not want to go back. Interesting menu selections that include several smoked on site entrees, and a nice Japanese selection. Really worth trying." - The Jerk Grill and Bar, Philipsburg (recommended by: Hafeez Rupani) [November 27, 1997]
- "After taking the best vacation of my life to St.Maarten, I felt it neccesary to inform all those who appreciate fine food that "The Jerk Grill and Bar" was one of the highlights of my trip. The food was excellent, especially the house specialty, you guessed it, Jerk Chicken. The service was great as well. I actually got the chance to meet the owner of this fine establishment, Archie, who truly showed me what dining is all about. I would recommend this restaurant to anyone who plans on visiting the wonderful island. Enjoy the Jerk."
- Restaurant Review (by: Owen and Mary Jones) [November 22, 1997]
- "Printed out your individual comments before we left and followed them for excellent results. Prices for all restaurants for two complete meals without significant amounts of wine or liquor was in the neighborhood of US$80-125. We would rate the restaurants reviewed as follows with ratings based on a four star system:
***3/4: l'Alabama...Delightful! Small with only 11 tables and cozy, the perfect decor with white and blue on blue on each table, beam rafters, open walls and exquisite service. French onion soup the best anywhere! Warm goat cheese salad with walnuts and honey wonderful, red snapper filets in thyme and Dijon mustard crust with red butter sauce and crepes imaginative and tasty. The only disappointment was the chicken rolled in lobster and roasted...chicken dry; however, Pascal, the owner, acknowledged they had had trouble with this particular recipe and were removing it from the menu. P.S., they removed the charge from the bill too. Topped off with a delightfully sinful desert consisting of caramelized banana flambe with dark rum and malaga ice cream and some of the best decaf espresso we have ever had. Service was four star, by Pascal, Karin and their friend. Will definitely put on our repeat list.
***3/4 Messalina...By far the most expensive of the restaurants we tried, this was also very close to our 1st place choice. We ate on the balcony overlooking the harbor in Marigot with a view equalled only by the quality of the food. Their bruccetta was the best we were served on the island with the "salsa" on top (a mixture of chopped tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and other things) spiced with just the right flavors for our tastes and the bread with just a hint of a salty/yeasty flavor we love so much. Swordfish carpaccio outstanding as was the roled stuffed swordfish with mozzarella, chopped tomatoes and breadcrumbs...we had ours broiled, you can get it sauted if you prefer. The pasta fruit de mer had just the right mix of spaghetti and wonderfully fresh seafood. The whole meal was topped off with a black and white chocolate mousse...I'm salivating at the thought as I write this. Jacques was the perfect host and attentive attendant. Careful, prices DO NOT include service. Will do again.
***1/2 Mario's Bistro...Michelle was right, the caramelized onion soup was out of this world; but it's not a light soup, served in a large bowl it is thick and creamy. While the snails were salty, the baked brie was wonderful as was the rib steak with peppercorn sauce, done to a tee. The veggies were spectacular, the best we have had anywhere, tasty and imaginative including the fried plantains which were like succulent potato chips only better, twiced baked potato without the skin, roasted garlic which melted in our mouths. Our chocolate mousse deserte was one for the books, a real chocoholic dream. Didiu performed his tasks admirably to make the service equal to the quality of the meal. A real keeper.
***1/4 Don Camillo...The carpaccio was light and tasty, the bruccetta spellbinding and I have never had gnoccia like it was made, prepared and served here...out of this world! Mary had snapper with a lemon sauce which was also memorable. They served a veggie/olive oil pate with baguette slices which were both outstanding. for desert, the tartufo was devine and the complimentary macaroons were soft and luscious. Careful, however, the house Merlot was quite pedestrian...why they wouldn't have a good house wine for those who only want one glass at a table is beyond me. Service was also excellent and attentive. We will do this again.
*** Thai Garden...The prawn with lemongrass soup was perfect as was the fish with hot sauce over white rice...wonderful. Vermicelli with crab was quite good too. The meal was topped off by a lemon tarte and tartufo, both quite tasty. At our request, they prepared iced coffee just like the Thai tea...wonderful. Service was somewhat inattentive but slightly above adequate. No indication whether the prices include service and when asked, the waitress hemmed and hawed, then acknowledged it was included. When no additional tip was left, she complained vocally to us in the parking lot. Disapprointing end to a reasonable meal.
Then, there were two other places we ate "off the recommended list," both of which were quite a disappointment.
** Restaurant at the Oyster Bay Beach Resort...While the snails were flawless, the onion soup was salty and lacking flavor, a solid mediocre rating, the salmon slices sans imagination, tasteless French bread, tasty rack of lamb which had been smothered in an oily bread crumb covering which looked quite unappetizing, a meager serving of tasteless veggies. Totally lacking in imagination. The only saving grace was that this very expensive meal was free for the price of listening to a time share spiel. Be careful, too, rumor has it that the time shares are way oversold and they have been selling vaporunits for over a year. Financial problems?
*1/2 Marina at Les Flamboyant...The resort hotel restaurant was mediocre. We ate there because the price of the stay included a US$100 credit towards meals. Without this, they probably would get few people into the place. The service was nonexistent and the food lacking in imagination, generally luke warm when it should have been piping hot. The hotel itself once was a four star resort (out of five) but lack of attention to maintenance put it into a solid three star category. The grounds, however, were near immaculate.
We'll update this the next time we return as we definitely found this to be one of our most enjoyable Caribbean experiences. Good luck." - The Jerk Grill and Bar, Philipsburg (recommended by: Katherine Lee) [November 18, 1997]
- "I have just returned from a week's vacation in St.Maarten/ St. Martin. I am a frequent visitor as it has become my favourite vacation destination. On my last visit, I found a very good restaurant in Philipsburg. I was searching for a place that served local food and a place called "The Jerk Grill and Bar" came highly recommended by the locals and other tourists. It's located in the heart of Philipsburg in front of the police station. The food is nothing less than superb with an extensive menu from, Jamaican jerk chicken and pork to fresh fish prepared daily in a variety of ways. The prices are very reasonable and the portions are large to say the least. The service is friendly and the atmosphere is welcoming. I highly recommend the Jerk Grill and Bar to those of you who are interested in experiencing a little bit of island flavor."
- Mr. Busby's Beach Bar, Oyster Pond (recommended by: Laser 101 Radio, St.Maarten) [November 13, 1997]
- "Although you mentioned that Mr. Busby's is not well known, I will disagree. Here's a fantastic place on the beach with the most tasty ribs in the world. The frozen drinks are to die for, and the lobster is always fresh. You can even pick your favourite lobster directly from the tank. Anyone coming to SXM should make sure and visit this great place on the beach. Highly recommended."
- Restaurant review (by: Michelle Swanda, Bobby Miller, Beth & Danny Christner) [October 27, 1997]
- "Bistrot Caraïbes, Grand Case (new, directly across from the Fish Pot) - Wonderful! A small, quaint restaurant in Grand Case with a water fountain full of lobsters in the front of the restaurant. The food and service were both excellent. If you looking for the best filet mignon on the island, it's at Bistrot Caraïbes. Smothered with sauteed onions and mushrooms in a wine sauce...absolutely mouth watering! One of our favorites.
Lynette's, Simpson Bay - What a total disappointment. We decided to try Lynette's based on a recommendation from some of the locals, and particularly because King Beau Beau was playing. Needless to say, our first indication that we were in for a long night was our cold conch fritter appetizer. Terrible! When brought to the attention of the waitress, she simply shrugged it off and didn't even offer to heat it up or send out a new one. Then came the salads. The dressing was extremely bland and the salad very boring. The entrees arrived and the filet mignon was raw, not even medium rare, but RAW. When sent back to the kitchen, the steak finally arrived at our table after the three our of four of us had finished our meals. And to top it off, it was a completely different cut of steak and had a liver-like taste to it. Again, no recourse from our waitress, she simply ignored our complaints. And to top it off, the manager visited every table in the restaurant except ours. I'm afraid he knew he was in for an ear full and ignored us completely. The irony of the evening was that I came in second in the dance contest and won a meal at one of the other restaurants owned by Lynette's...The Old Rock Cafe. Needless to say, I didn't bother cashing in my prize.
The Boat House, Simpson Bay - Nothing special about this place. We did like the atmosphere sitting outside by the water. The food was your average seafood fare...lots of fried platters. We felt like we were at Red Lobster. I will say that the steamed mussels in garlic butter were very scrumptious as an appetizer. The rest of the meal I could take or leave. If you want a casual evening out and not up for a gourmet meal, go to the Boat House. Otherwise, wait till you get home and get your seafood fix at Long John Silver's!
Mario's Bistrot, Marigot - Everyone had recommended Mario's to us and for good reason. The food was scrumptious. I had the caramelized jumbo shrimp with polenta...excellent. The duck was highly recommended but was not as good as we thought it would be. The food portions were very large. After eating our appetizers (caramelized onion soup, yummy!, and salads), we were stuffed. Therefore, I don't think our experience was as good as it could have been. Because the restaurant is on the water, it was a little to warm for us as well. However, we will definitely go back. The food presentation was spectacular and again, the portions very large. I would recommend skipping the appetizer and waiting patiently for the main course. You won't go home hungry!
Don Camillo's, Marigot - Absolutely the best restaurant we experienced during our nine day stay in St. Maarten. Give this place a "10" for its beauty, five stars for the food, an Oscar for the waitstaffs' performance, a Tony for the chefs' authentic creations and a blue ribbon for a winning experience. I cannot say enough good things about Don Camillo's. It was absolutely fabulous. The Gnocci (Italian style potato dumplings) is their specialty and just melts in your mouth. Try the antipasto sampler for an appetizer and experience broiled mussels with parmesan cheese and bread crumbs, stuffed green peppers, buffalo mozzarella with sliced tomatoes, swordfish and much more. The veal is also incredible as well as the pasta dishes. My favorite was the rigatoni with sauteed egg plant, garlic, basil, etc. What an excellent restaurant. We loved it so much we had to go back for more. A round of applause to Don and the gang, especially the manager, Giuseppe! Don't miss out on this experience. I would love to hear what others have to say about Don Camillo's. P.S. You'll love how they top off your meal...a shot of Sambuca with three coffee beans. WOW! If they like you, you'll get a bonus shot." - Restaurant report (by: Deirdre and Paul from Saint John, New Brunswick) [October 24, 1997]
- "Recently returned from St. Maarten and have a few restaurants to recommend. We ate lunch twice at La Vie en Rose in Marigot. They have an excellent seafood pasta salad. For a fancy romantic dinner try Le Cottage in Grand Case. The staff have pre-selected wines to match each dish on the menu. We also ate at Mario's Bistro at Sandy Ground where the food was good but heavy and at Portofino at Grand Case, where the pizza was excellent, the family friendly and the prices reasonable. For a casual night out try Cloud 10 at Simpson Bay. The food was good and the owners provided wonderful personal service."
- Chesterfields, Philipsburg (recommended by: Bob and Luci Swan, Sayville NY) [October 20, 1997]
- "We just returned from St Maarten and had a superb dinner at Chesterfields. It's in a very nice setting on Great Bay in Phillipsburg. I had the most delicious Pepper Steak and my wife's yellowfin tuna was grilled to absolute perfection. Chesterfields is definitely a restaurant worth returning too!!!"
- Three restaurants (recommended by: Paul and Barbara Eakin)
- "My wife Barbara and I enjoyed brousing your St. Martin restaurant recommendations. As frequent visitors to St. Martin (10 times in the last six years), we are very familar with many of the restaurants listed. In general, we agree with the listed comments based on our personal exeriences.
From our visit there in May 97, we had memorable dining experiences at three restaurants:
Thai Garden, Lowlands: We found the Thai cuisine there to be excellent and a welcome change from our French favorites. The decor was suprisingly ornate and the service was excellent. Their menu was extremely varied and all dishes we sampled were delicious. The only down side were the hefty prices, which approached the major Grand Case restaurant price levels, and the poor Lowlands area that you must drive through to get there. Overall, very nice--we will go back.
Bikini Beach, Orient Beach: Their evening meals have greatly improved with their new Chef and menu. We had dinner there three evenings this trip and enjoyed each visit. We had sole, mahi mahi, and beef entrees and were well pleased with the food, its preparation, and the service. The restaurant is right on Orient Beach and is quite casual during the day but the evening visitors are nicely dressed. Now, besides being a very fun beach bar to lunch at and enjoy a lively happy hour, we can now stop back at Bikini Beach and enjoy a very nice dinner there as well. The manager, Elisa, and her staff are extemely friendly and run a very nice operation.
Piccolo Cafe, Cul de Sac: This was a very pleasant find our last trip. The food was outstanding--easily as good as any meal we have ever eaten at the name restaurants in Grand Case but was about half their typical price. The staff was young and very enthusiastic. Their French menu was moderately sized but included some very creative specials. However, don't expect a luxurious setting--you dine outside with some very ordinary views. Nevertheless, based on the food quality and overall dining experience, this has to be one of the best bargains on the island. With limited seating, we found reservations a must here, even in off season." - l'Alabama, Grand Case (recommended by: Michael Zembko)
- "We just returned from St. Martin and we had dinner at 4 restaurants in Grand Case and by far the best was L'Alabama. Don't be fooled by the name, this was classic French Cuisine. I love French Onion Soup, I have ordered it dozens of times at some great restaurants, but I have never had it as good as this. Superb! We had also gone to L'escargot, but L'Alabama out did them in the snails as well. Fantastic! My wife had rack of lamb and I had steak au poivre (which wasn't on the menu but they made it special for me). Words cannot describe how incredible this meal was. It was like a party was going on in my mouth. If you go to St. Martin and don't go to L'Alabama, you wasted your trip.
Say "Bonjour" to Karen (a stunning blonde) and Pascal for us." - Various ([not] recommended by: Charles Wesley-James)
- "Il Nettuno, Grand Case - NOT recommended
Expensive prices for middle of the road (or worse) food. They refused to run my Canadian credit card through in Francs, only in US $, meaning that I had to pay for two exchanges. (FF-US-CDN)
Le Portofino, Grand Case - recommended
Honest food at an honest price in an unassuming atmosphere.
Le Bistrot Du Port, Rue Filix Eboue, Marigot - recommended
Service is great. Steak was pretty good. The 'unusual hamburgers' are ok. And the white chocholate ice cream is worth saving lots of room for. But again the service makes you think you've come home to your friends, and these friends would never over charge you for your food." - La Petite Auberge des Iles, Marina Port La Royale, Marigot (recommended by: Lynn and Ken from Michigan)
- "This restaurant not only has great food but also reasonable prices. The service is prompt and includes several extras like fresh shell pistachios as an appetizer. We ate there for both lunch and dinner and were equally impressed. The blue and swiss cheese quiche was the best I've ever had."
- Cloud 10, Simpson Bay (next to Lynette's) (recommended by: Beate & Alex)
- "My favorite restaurant in Sint Maarten, without any doubt has to be "Cloud 10". It is a restaurant one should get to know for its good food and really excellent and above all personal service. Enjoy an evening with all the goodies you really want. If I had the chance I would eat there at least once a week."
- Le Tastevin, Rainbow and the Fish Pot, Grand Case (recommended by: Jim Bolster)
- "Just got back from St. Martin yesterday. My wife and I ate at 3 of Grand Case's French restaurants. Le Tastevin was the best all around. Beautiful tropical setting on the water. Great service and marvelous French cuisine. This was our pick for the top overall meal experience during our stay. The other two restaurants, Rainbow Cafe and The Fish Pot were excellent as well. My meal at Rainbow Cafe now ranks as the best ever - Grilled Mahi Mahi in creole sauce and what they do to the sides is incredible!"
- l'Escargot, Philipsburg (recommended by: Ravi)
- "Located in the heart of downtown Philipsburg, this family owned restaurant gives you a little bit of France without ever having to leave the Dutch Side.
The Chef will dazzle you with such succulent appetizers like snails prepared in avariety of ways. Believe me when I say that this is only the beginning of an adventure in great cuisine.
After you had time to enjoy an excellent bottle of wine from their wine list it will be time to embark on that adventure...
The main courses are prepared by the chef with such care and finesse that once the plate reaches your table you will feel almost guilty to spoil the awesome presentation..However I strongly urge you to do just that. There will no stopping you at this point and trust me when I say that this is the best cuisine you will find in St. Maarten.
The host and hostess as well as the staff are always one step ahead of your needs and at the end of your dinner you will feel like you are saying goodbye to family.
L'Escargot also has a fabulous Cabaret show which is held every Friday night and should soon be back in full swing. The owners and Staff give a heck of a show and when the guests start to become a part of the show it creates an ambiance of good fun and lots of laughs. The show has a cover charge of $50 which includes a full course meal and is absolutely worth seeing.
So if you are looking for that special place where you can enjoy fabulous food, good wine and great hospitality go check it out. Ask for Mr. Joel Morand or his lovely wife Sonya Morand and embark on the adventure in fine cuisine like you never had before in your life." - Turtle Pier Bar, across Juliana Airport (recommended by: Chris Penta)
- "My favorite restaurant is Turtle Pier. They have the best Conch Fritters in the world. We just got back from St Maarten and ate there three times."
- Cloud 10, Simpson Bay (next to Lynette's) (recommended by: Pauwel & Marlou Vizee)
- "Cloud 10 is a very cosy restaurant that serves a nice variety in foods at a reasonable price. I've visited Cloud 10 five times with my wife and every time I've enjoyed great food. From very good steaks to mexican specialities to fresh fish (catch of the day). The hosts Eveline & Paul make sure you have a very nice time and can tell you everything about the island because they are Dutch locals. If you want enjoy just a drink it is the place to relax at the bar and the gorgeous Eveline will look after you properly."
- L'Escapade, Grand Case (recommended by: Carol & Kelvyn)
- "This small, elegant restaurant on the the ocean side of Grand Case has great service and the food is fabulous! Reservations are a must at this romantic site!!"
- Jean Dupont, Marigot (recommended by: Jim Greig)
- "The best restaurant on the island of St. Maarten / St. Martin by far, is Jean Dupont, in Marigot Harbour. Having been to St. Maarten approx. 10 times, you cannot find a better filet mignon anywhere in North America nor the Carribean."
- Piccolo Cafe, Cul de Sac (recommended by: Robin Selvig)
- "We have just returned from St. Martin and must recommend a wonderful restaurant in Cul de Sac. Reservations are a must. The food is imaginative and very reasonable which we found unusual in and around Grande Case (except for small barbecue places.)"
- Le Bistro Gourmand, Lowlands (recommended by: Annie)
- "I just returned from St. Martin and Anguilla two weeks ago. I was grateful for your suggestions about what to see and do. With regard to restaurants: I enjoyed the Turtle Pier Restaurant on Airport Road. "La Semanna" provided a romantic last night out.
BUT!! I must recommend Le Bistro Gourmand, 130 Lowlands on the Dutch side. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was charming. My husband and I liked it so much we ate there twice. The service (by cute French waiters) was attentive but professional. The menu offered many choices, even for a picky near-vegetarian. The food was delicious and attractively served - eye appealing. I usually resist dessert, but didn't here and felt the calories were definitely - WORTH IT." - Sebastiano, Grand Case (recommended by: Phil Corriveau)
- "Great view. Fabulous menu. Excellent Staff. Very Romantic. Great Presentation of the food!"
- Tropicana, Marigot (recommended by: Frank Markus)
- "The Tropicana in Marigot on the harbor. Good food, wonderful maitre d'."
- Ric's Place, Philipsburg (not recommended by: Judy and Ralph Nielsen)
- "My wife and I were on the Westerdam in early January this year. We went ashore at Philipsburg in the morning. When we saw Ric's Place on the main street we were assured that the food, TexMex, was just like what you get in Dallas.
We had to wait to get a table because most of the guests were nursing beers and smoking. A TV set was on full blast, but hardly anybody could see what was on. The sound therefrom only added to the general noise, so we couldn't really talk to each other.
I ordered a chicken taco minus the chicken (we're vegetarians), my wife ordered a vegetarian sandwich. My taco was so-so, but my wife's "sandwich" was a dry bun with a little tomato and cucumber, and a huge pile of coarsely shredded red cabbage (a tropical vegetable, indeed). I finished my taco by washing it down with what they called an Imperial pint of draft beer. It wasn't even an American pint. I know because I was born and raised Imperial in a remote country called Canada. My wife managed to choke down about a third of her bun and gave up in disgust. And all this cost us an American twenty-dollar bill.
If Ric's place is what we can expect in Dallas, we're never going to visit Dallas. And we're certainly never going to visit Ric's Place again." - Everything Cool, Philipsburg (recommended by: Chip)
- "The best place for lunch is in Phillipsburgh on Front st. called Everything Cool.48 kinds of frozen drinks and the best ribs.I had the best pulled pork sandwich I have ever had,went back 3 times.Right on the beach."
- Lagoonies Bar (recommended by: Sjaak)
- "I've been many times to st. Maarten and the best restaurant I ever visit there was a small little unknown bar at the lagoon. Very good food, nice owners named Harm & Liesbeth. And low low low prices. Better than all the expensive and famous places in Marigot and Grand Case!!!"
- Rainbow, Grand Case (recommended by: Albert Medwin)
- "And another vote for the Rainbow. One night when we were there, we had a torrential downpour, but the waiters were undeterred and the meal -- delicious!"
- La Chamade, Marigot (recommended by: Rick Kranz)
- "This little restaurant near the parking lot on St James Street in the center of Marigot is great. Antonin is a young and inventive chef serving classical French cuisine with occasional twists. We have been going there for several years and have always been pleased. The prices are quite good and the prix fixe menu is even better."
![[Mark of Mark's Place and friends]](markspl3.jpg)
Mark's Place, Cul de Sac (recommended by: Gary Brown)
- "I was surprised to see that this restaurant (Marc's place)was not listed! The wine celler was superb the view was passable (better before a building 'grew' in front of the view of Orient Bay. Food was wonderful! Service was good. Funky little kick butt dinner spot." [Note: Mark's Place has recently moved. It is now located next to Food Center in Philipsburg]
- Da Livio (Philipsburg) and Rancho (Simpson Bay) (recommended by: Boris Mohorko)
- "It would be unfair not to recommend "da Livio" on Frontstreet and "Rancho". Da Livio: because it has "a class", very friendly and professional team and good kitchen. Rancho: friendly team, relaxed atmosphere and good kitchen (Argentinean piles of meat on charcoal grill). My personal judgment is based, that restaurant has to pass the most strict German sanitation inspection, I have to enjoy the quality, taste and service."
- the Boat House, Simpson Bay (recommended by: DLyne77745@aol.com)
- "The Best steak I ever tasted was a filet mignon at the Boat House in Simpson Bay."
- Spartaco, Almond Grove (recommended by: Pat and Steve)
- "The most romantic northern Italian restaurant on the island. Located in Almond Grove in a 300 year old sugar cane plantation house. Beautiful and delicious."
- L'Alabama, Grand Case (recommended by: Chas and Jane Pietras, Dunbarton NH)
- "We would have to say that L'Alabama in Grand Case is our favorite restaurant. We have eaten there 4 times each with a different main course. The food and service is excellent. Karen and Pascal are excellent hosts that make you feel right at home. The food is always well prepared and presented, and the open-air atmosphere adds the finishing touch. Their after dinner drink offering and greeting as you depart finishes off an excellent evening of dining."
- Il Nettuno, Grand Case (recommended by: Tim Sellers)
- "Il Nettuno was the first and last restaurant that my wife and I visited while we were on our honeymoon. The atmosphere was splendid as the French chef came out to our table to give us the daily food and drink specials, as we listened to the waves crash into the shore down below, and as we watched the stars reflect their light on the water. If you want a romantic evening with extremely delicious Italian cuisine and excellent service, then Il Nettuno is the perfect restaurant for you."
- La Brasserie, Marigot (recommended by: Bill & Diane, Rochester, NY)
- "La Brasserie in Port Royale, the marina in Marigot, is our favorite. French style pizzas, pastas, and other great dishes at moderate prices. The waiters are the best. We first went there when we were window shopping the menus and a waiter wandered out and promised the "best food with the worst service." Not the worst, but perhaps the most abusive: they are constantly playing practical jokes on the customers and each other!"
- Messalina, Marigot (recommended by: Mr. Evangelista, Rochester NY)
- "We had dinner once at the Italien restaurant "MESSALINA" which is located in Marigot on the French side. How delighted we were. The food was excellent and the service outstanding. We went back twice for dinner at the Messalina during our stay and have been treated like majesty by Jacques the Manager."
- Wajang Doll, Philipsburg (recommended by: R. Bailey)
- "An outstanding Indonesian feast, and an exquisite touch with desserts."
- Sambuca, Simpson Bay (Recommended by: Allison)
- "Without a doubt, Sambuca (Airport Road, Simpson Bay) is one of the finest eateries on the island. The Italian menu offers a great variety. Meals are cooked over oak fires in brick ovens. Open for lunch and dinner, prices are reasonable, service is good, and the view of Simpson Bay Lagoon is great. Allison (confirmed Sambuca lover)"
- L'Hibiscus, Grand Case (Recommended by: Karen)
- "My favorite restaurant on St. Martin is L'Hibiscus in Grand Case. It was the best meal I ever had. The gracious hostess, quaint atmosphere, and delicious food with a tropical flair made me feel like I was experiencing island cuisine as it should be. I would highly recommend it."
- The Fish Pot, Grand Case (Recommended by: John Doleman)
- "I haven't been there since the hurricane, but the Fish Pot in Grand Case is phenomenal. Mahi-Mahi with lemon caper was one of the best meals ever. I hope it's still there." [Yes, it is!]
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