When travelers think of safe islands to visit during hurricane season, Aruba comes to mind. This Caribbean island is located far south of the hurricane belt, where direct hurricane hits are rare. But that’s not the only thing that makes Aruba a popular travel destination.
If you consider yourself a foodie, this luxurious tropical island should definitely be on your list of places to travel. The island is home to a variety of award-winning restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From small local eateries to trendy bistros, there is something for everyone in this culinary paradise. Here are just a few of the fantastic dining experiences you can enjoy on the island:
1. Champagne Breakfast and Lunch Cruise with Snorkeling
Pelican Adventures Aruba
How does this sound? Free-flowing champagne cocktails, continental breakfast and a gourmet lunch. This Aruba special lets you savor exquisite Aruban cuisine while sailing the turquoise waters.
Feeling adventurous? This snorkeling tour aboard a custom-built catamaran includes three stops to explore the underwater world in crystal clear waters. These include:
- Boca Catalina – this secluded cove offers everything snorkelers want: a pristine ocean, beautiful shallow coral reefs with an amazing variety of fish, and the chance to see green sea turtles in the deeper seagrass areas.
- The Antilla – the 400-foot German freighter that sank during World War II is the largest underwater wreck in the Caribbean
- Malmok Reef – with its natural pools and underwater caves, Malmok Reef offers some of the best snorkeling in Aruba.
It’s the perfect opportunity to refresh and explore while dining out in the sea to the rhythms of Caribbean music!
2. Hilton Sunset Concierge
The Sunset Concierge (courtesy of Hilton Aruba Resort) is something not to be missed when visiting Aruba. What is it and what makes it so special?
Let us get the answer straight from the source. Hilton Aruba defines the Sunset Concierge as a “scenic culinary adventure” where guests can experience “innovative, artisanal private dining” accompanied by the famous Aruban sunset.
And who does not love sunsets! There is something about the sight of the golden sun dipping below the horizon that is so captivating and leaves you with warm fuzzies.
Best of all, Hilton Aruba gives you the option of choosing your very own private dining spot within the resort or at a secluded location on the island. You can even watch the sunset from a private kayak tour with one of the licensed guides!
No matter which location you choose, you’ll enjoy a bespoke four-course meal with a personal Sunset Concierge on hand to assist you throughout the evening.
Do you have to be a guest at Hilton Aruba to participate? No! Even if you are staying at another resort, you can still sign up for the Sunset Concierge.
3. Fusion of the World Food Tour
The island of Aruba is one of the most culturally diverse countries in the Caribbean. And no place is this more evident than in its multicultural cuisine.
One of the best ways to appreciate this diversity is through the Fusion of the World Food Tour. The enthralling 2 1/2-hour tour takes you to five different local eateries in the streets of Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba.
At each stop, the tour guide explains the history and culture of each cuisine. You’ll learn about Aruba’s Dutch colonial past as you savor mouthwatering stroopwafels (thin, crispy waffles with a caramel filling ) at a local café.
Then it’s off to a Cuban restaurant for tasty dishes like ropa vieja (ground beef in tomato sauce) and palomilla steak (grilled flank steak). Jamaican patties, Italian gelato and Aruban keshi yena (a dish made with chicken, cheese and vegetables) are just some of the other delicacies you can enjoy on this tour.
4. The Monforte III Exclusive Dinner Cruise
The Monforte III adults-only dinner cruises feature a visual show by world-renowned chefs preparing a 4-course dinner right before your eyes. All you need to do is relax, and enjoy the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea and the sunset in the soothing evening hours. Mimosa and other popular cocktails from their premium bar are served complimentary. Talk about an upscale experience!
For more active visitors, sign up for the morning Luxury Lagoon Cruise. This will give you the opportunity to snorkel, kayak and rope swing.
On both cruises, you get to interact with other passengers and enjoy a delicious meal together.
Everyone who participates in these cruises always comes back with high praise for the chefs and crew of Monforte III. They are some of the nicest and most accommodating people you will ever meet.
The Monforte III team will work with you to plan a bespoke itinerary for your group. Whether you want to make an extra stop at a secluded beach or spend more time exploring the lagoon, they will make it happen. If you are vegetarian or have strict dietary restrictions, they are happy to modify the menu for you. No request is too big or too small for this crew!
5. 12 Course Culinary Journey at Infini
Chef Urvin Croes is a local celebrity in Aruba. And rightly so! A pioneer of molecular gastronomy in Aruba, his restaurant Infini offers diners a unique experience. Every night, guests flock to Infini to watch Chef Urvin whip up a surprise 12-course menu in Infini’s open kitchen!
Each of the courses is artfully prepared and presented. Have your camera at the ready to capture the plating, which can only be described as edible art.
Not to mention the wine/cocktail pairings that perfectly complement each course.
Dining at Infini is an amazing experience of flavors and textures, and it’s made even more enjoyable by the interaction with the knowledgeable and friendly staff. If you’re ever in Aruba, be sure to reserve a table at Infini!
6. Aruba Sunset Cruise and Seaside Dinner
Photo credit: Pelican Pier Aruba
As the sun slowly dips below the horizon, you can’t help but feel grateful for this magical moment. The colors of the sky are so vibrant and alive. You’ve never seen anything like it before. You take a deep breath and let the cool, salty air fill your lungs. This is just what you needed: a chance to relax and clear your head.
For two hours, you’ll sail along the coast and enjoy the tranquility of being out on the open water. The only sounds are the gentle lapping of the waves against the boat and the occasional screech of seagulls overhead. You can’t help but smile as you sip your favorite cocktail and indulge in delectable finger foods. Afterward, enjoy a delicious steak or fish dinner with a glass of wine at the Pelican Nest Seafood Grill before returning to your resort.
That my friend is the Aruba sunset cruise and seaside dinner.
Plan The Perfect Aruban Culinary Experience
Aruba has some of the most fantastic food you’ll ever taste in your life. From fresh seafood to delicious fruits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t even get me started on the exquisite dishes at the places on this list. My mouth is watering just thinking about them.
But with so many options, how do you know where to start? That’s where I come in! I specialize in creating personalized culinary experiences for my clients. Whether you want to try the best restaurants on the island or eat like a local, I can help you create an unforgettable trip. Let’s talk!