French finesse and Caribbean soul make for an irresistible food scene.
On this sun-splashed island shared by France and the Netherlands, menus tell the story of many cultures. From market-fresh seafood and Creole comfort food to fine French pastries and island-made rum, dining here is the most delicious way to experience St. Martin’s mosaic of flavours.
Conch and Dumplings
Tender conch is slowly simmered in a peppery gravy and paired with dense flour dumplings for a hearty, soul-satisfying dish. With deep African-Caribbean roots, this seafaring staple turns a fisher’s catch into a complete, comforting meal.
Try it at: A traditional lolo in Grand Case, where you’ll find this homestyle favorite served alongside the smoky aroma of the grill and the rhythm of island life.
Salt Cod Fritters (Accras de Morue)
Salt cod fritters are herbed, spiced and fried until crisp on the outside with a soft, steamy centre. This French-Antillean favourite is a go-to starter at beachside lolos and fine restaurants alike.
Try it at: Talk of the Town in Grand Case, a beloved lolo (open-air food stall) where accras fly out of the fryer alongside barbecue and seafood plates.
Stuffed Crab Backs (Crabe farci)
Seasoned crabmeat mixed with aromatics and crumbs is packed back into the shell and baked until golden. Once a festive specialty, this French-Creole dish is now a beloved island staple.
Try it at: Yvette’s Restaurant in French Quarter, a family-run Creole house that’s been open for decades.
Johnny Cakes
Golden and fried until crisp at the edges and pillowy inside, these breads are as versatile as they are comforting. Thought to have evolved from Indigenous American cornmeal cakes once called journey cakes, the St. Martin version is flour-based and often stuffed with salt fish, cheese or ham.
Try it at: Sky’s the Limit lolo in Grand Case, one of the island’s oldest and most beloved barbecue spots. Locals rave these are the fluffiest on the island.
Guavaberry Rum
Made from the tiny, tart guavaberry fruit that grows wild in the hills, this spiced liqueur is the island’s signature spirit. Traditionally enjoyed at Christmas, today it’s sipped year-round in cocktails and punches.
Try it at: Guavaberry Colombier Tradition in Colombier, where you can taste the island’s national drink and buy a bottle as a souvenir.
Plan Your Escape
Ready to eat your way across the island? Learn more and plan your trip at st-martin.org.