The island’s dining scene is better than ever. Whatever your budget is, there’s something out there for you. From fine dining with a view to eating freshly caught fish in a surf shack. Besides my own Chef’s Table and Dinner in the Field, I am happy to share my personal favorite restaurants on the island. Curaçao-lovers: take note!
Best restaurant on Curaçao: where to find them
The dining scene on Curaçao is rather spread out. Most beach club-like restaurants are located near Jan Thiel Beach and Mambo beach. These areas are crowded by tourists who lavish on sushi and hamburgers. Want to do as locals do? Visit the vibrant Pietermaai district, the colorful and trendy neighborhood of Otrobanda or go off the beaten track. Below you’ll find my insider’s list of the best restaurants on Curaçao, in no particular order.
Top 10 best restaurants on Curaçao
1. MosaCaña Bar & Kitchen
Looking to have dinner while sipping on some amazing cocktails? MosaCaña Bar & Kitchen is a Cuban-style restaurant located in the Pietermaai district that ticks off all the above. This restaurant cooks up some of the island’s best shareable dishes. Make sure you make a reservation to secure a table. Especially during the weekend.
2. De Visserij
When visiting the island of Curaçao, paying a visit to De Visserij (the fishery) is a must. The owner is a fisherman which equals fresh fish every. single. day. Expect a fair bit of queuing – so don’t come in a hurry. When entering the restaurant you walk up to the counter and you order the type and amount of fish you like. Try out their fresh tuna and local funchi hasá (polenta fries).
3. Soi95
Easy-going Asian food in a great environment. Soi95 is located in the up-and-coming Pietermaai district. The menu consists of shareable finger food that pairs perfectly with the amazing cocktails. Extra bonus point: this restaurant has a rooftop area where you can sit (and sip) under the stars.
4. Sal the Kitchen
This new restaurant is run by two brothers. One works wonders in the kitchen, the other one tells you all about wine. The shared dining concept with Caribbean influences is unlike anything you’ll find on the island. Expect high-end food in a laid-back environment. Yet again located in the Pietermaai district.
5. Hofi Cas Cora
Hofi Cas Cora is a farm-to-table restaurant that uses products from its own land. Enjoy the view while enjoying a fresh salad, sandwich or warm meal. Next to a weekend brunch spot, there is a farm and marketplace where you can buy fresh products from local farmers from Monday to Friday.
6. Restaurant Nultwintig
This list isn’t complete without at least one restaurant by the water. Restaurant Nultwintig is a beautifully decorated place. Enjoy a fine-dining 3 or 4-course menu while watching the waves hit the shore.
7. Kome
Kome is also located in the Pietermaai District. We love the “big city” vibe and the food is good. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner. Wednesday is Tapas Night – with a selection of their greatest hits on the menu. Make a reservation to ensure a seat.
8. Brass Boer
Elegant dining (or lunching) in a gorgeous setting right on the beach. Enjoy the culinary delights from the scepter of our favorite Dutch chef with a dash of Caribbean. Life is good.
9. Seaside Terrace
It’s been there for years and luckily it’s still going strong. Consisting of a simple container kitchen and an open air terrace with plastic tables and chairs right at Marie Pampoen beach. Serving sparkling fresh fish straight out of the water, from red snapper, to lionfish, to lobster. Family-run with love.
10. BijBlauw
BijBlauw is a boutique hotel slash concept store slash restaurant in the ever popular Pietermaai District. At night, you get to enjoy a fine-dining menu in an oceanfront setting. Enjoy delicious food and a glass (or more) of wine with the salty breeze through your hair and the sound of the waves in the background. Does it get any better?
Want to know where to swim and snorkel while staying on the island? In this article, you’ll find the best beaches on Curaçao.
