Written by Mony Figueroa

In St. Barts, food isn’t just something you fit in between beach naps, it’s the plan. And the best part? he food is actually phenomenal. Think Mediterranean flavors, French technique, fresh seafood, and world-class service.

These are the spots worth booking ahead.

Fine Dining Favorites

Bonito — Gustavia
Vibe: Upscale, sexy, harbor views

If you're only booking one dinner in St. Barts, make it Bonito. Housed in a beautifully restored beach house with open views of the Gustavia harbor, Bonito strikes the perfect balance between elegant and beachy.

The menu blends French flair with Latin American ingredients. Start with the chipotle tuna tacos or ceviche, and don’t skip the langoustine risotto or the seabass in tomatillo sauce. Celebs like Beyoncé and Simon Cowell have been spotted here, but the real reason to come is the food. And the view. Okay, both.

L’Isola — Gustavia
Vibe: Romantic, refined, Italian date night

For a proper Italian night in the heart of the Caribbean, L’Isola delivers. Elegant, intimate, and candlelit, this white-tablecloth spot brings a bit of Rome to Gustavia with its authentic Italian menu.

Expect delicate branzino, handmade pastas, and a tiramisu worth saving room for. The wine list is extensive, and the service is refined without being too formal. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and every bite feels like a celebration.

Tamarin — Salines
Vibe: Tropical, romantic, under-the-radar chic

Tucked inside a lush garden near Saline Beach, Tamarin is a magical spot for a night out. Twinkling lights, tropical greenery, and a French-Asian menu full of surprises like crispy duck, truffle risotto, and grilled lobster. It’s stylish but serene, perfect for date night or dinner with friends.

Orega — Gustavia
Vibe: Sleek, intimate, chef-driven

This minimalist, Japanese-French fusion restaurant is a must for foodies. Every plate feels curated, with highlights like toro tartare, truffle gyoza, and buttery lobster risotto. The chef often comes out to chat, and the whole experience is quietly luxurious.

L’Esprit — Salines
Vibe: Rustic luxe, quiet sophistication

Set near the entrance to Saline Beach, L’Esprit serves refined French cuisine in a relaxed, open-air setting. The menu changes seasonally, but expect bright flavors, artful plating, and ingredients sourced locally. A true hidden gem if you’re after something elegant but low-key.

Beach Clubs & Long Lunch Spots

Le Sereno — Grand Cul-de-Sac
Vibe: Relaxed luxury, barefoot fine dining

Set directly on the beach at the Le Sereno Hotel, this open-air restaurant has all the makings of a long, indulgent afternoon. It’s a true toes-in-the-sand experience, with a menu that leans Mediterranean: grilled octopus, seafood stew, lobster with homemade linguine.

Fun fact: many of the staff rotate between this location and the sister property in Lake Como, Italy, so the level of service is consistently excellent. Le Sereno was named Best Hotel Restaurant in the 2024 World Culinary Awards, and also made Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the Best Waterfront Restaurants in the World. Worth it.

Shellona — Shell Beach, Gustavia
Vibe: Trendy, boho-luxe, music + rosé energy

Postcard-perfect location, stylish crowd, and food that’s way more than an afterthought, Shellona is the beach club lunch spot on Shell Beach. With full sea views and a boho-chic design, it’s the kind of place where one cocktail turns into three... and suddenly it’s golden hour.

The Greek-inspired menu is fresh and fun: grilled fish, octopus, lobster, Greek salad, feta wrapped in filo, and mussels in tomato-ouzo sauce. Come for lunch, stay for the vibe.

Zion — St. Jean
Vibe: Cool, inventive, insider favorite

Zion brings something a little different to the table: a mix of modern French-Caribbean cuisine, tasting menus, natural wines, and even DJ sets on select nights. It’s a favorite among locals and creative travelers who want something vibrant but not over-the-top.

One last tip

Book early. During high season, these spots fill up fast. If you want that table with the view or a prime seat at a beach club, your best bet is to plan ahead. (Or better yet, have your Maya Luxe concierge do it for you.)