How to Eat Well in Aruba

Aruba is a small island with a big appetite. The possibilities are nearly endless when that dinner bell rings. Tourists and Arubans alike are sure to eat well. Aruba does have U.S. chains ranging from Applebee's to Wendy's, but with so many options you should take a chance on a new dining experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Make it yourself. If your lodgings have kitchen amenities, give your budget a break and shop the local grocery store. Aruba's markets are full of both familiar and exotic foods. Aruba imports many foods from nearby countries such as Venezuela, and keeps true to its Dutch roots by also adding European fare.
2. Feel the love at one of Aruba's more romantic eateries. Try La Trattoria el Faro Blanco or Flying Fishbones. Both places help set the mood and offer high-quality meal options. The ambiance will cost you, but after that second glass of wine, you'll hardly notice your wallet's weight loss.
3. Spoil yourself at Chez Mathilde. This restaurant offers high-quality French-influenced cuisine. If you aren't feeling in the mood for French, try another option: LG Smith's, a classy upscale steakhouse where your palette is sure to be satisfied.
4. Follow the adage, "When in Aruba, eat like Arubans." The Eet Cafe-The Paddock and Charlies Bar are two options for Aruban cuisine. Try dishes like pickled conch and get the real flavor of Aruba.
5. Find other ethnic restaurants to spice up your vacation. Que Pasa offers Asian and Caribbean while Cuba's Cooking, of course, features the food of Cuba. El Gaucho serves up the flavors of Argentina, and you can taste Brazil at Texas de Brazil Churrascaria or Amazonia Churrascaria. The Taj Majal can satisfy any Indian craving you have.
6. Check online before you go. Read reviews online about the islands eateries written by travelers and locals alike (see Resources below).