St Barts best restaurants to taste paradise

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Sep 62024St Barts best restaurants to taste paradise There are few places in the world that capture the essence of laid-back glamour and vibrant luxury like Saint Barts. This tiny jewel of the Caribbean is a playground for the rich and famous, where azure waters meet powder-soft sands, and where the dining scene is nothing short of spectacular. The island's diverse culinary offerings are a reflection of its eclectic influences, bringing together Mediterranean flair, French elegance, Japanese precision, and Caribbean soul. Here, we unveil the most exclusive and vibrant dining spots on the island, each promising a taste of the extraordinary.
Tagsfood, luxury, traditions, travel

Shellona
On the renowned Shell Beach, Shellona is a sanctuary for the beautiful and the bold. This beachside restaurant is a harmonious blend of boho-chic design and gastronomic delight. Mediterranean cuisine with a Caribbean twist reign supreme here, with dishes like grilled octopus, Greek salad, and juicy lamb skewers. The crowd is as lively as the island itself—expect to see yacht-hoppers, A-list celebrities, and well-heeled travelers who have perfected the art of barefoot luxury. Shellona is more than a restaurant; it's an afternoon that turns into evening without missing a beat, with DJ sets that keep the rhythm flowing.


La Kala
Emerged from the ashes of the renowned Rivage, at La Kala the sea is your constant companion. Located on Lorient Beach, this contemporary restaurant embraces its beachfront location with a menu that pays homage to the ocean. Expect expertly grilled fish, seafood platters that overflow with oysters, crab, and prawns, and light, zesty salads. The atmosphere is chic yet relaxed, with white-washed walls, nautical touches, and an open-air layout that invites the warm breeze in. La Kala is the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, toes in the sand, rosé in hand.


Pearl Beach Restaurant
In the glittering heart of Saint-Jean, Pearl Beach shines brightly as a premier nightlife destination. This restaurant-bar hybrid offers a fusion of Latino and Caribbean cuisine that is as vibrant as the crowd it attracts. Savor dishes like fresh grilled lobster or coconut and lime mahi mahi in a setting that seamlessly blends indoor glamour with outdoor island breezes. As the night deepens, Pearl morphs into a lively hub with DJs spinning and cocktails flowing. This is where Saint Barts’ cosmopolitan set comes to see and be seen.


Bagatelle
If you're in search of a dining experience that doubles as a party, look no further than Bagatelle. With its French-inspired menu and champagne-fueled soirées, Bagatelle is synonymous with glamour. Located in the lively harbor of Gustavia, this hotspot is where the jet set gather to enjoy decadent dishes like truffle pizza, duck magret, and crispy calamari, all to the beats of a live DJ. With a refined menu curated by the chefs Rocco Seminara & Rémi Chevallier, Bagatelle brings the generous flavors of the French Riviera to your plate. Among their signature dishes, enjoy La Parmigiana with Mozzarella di Bufala, carpaccio de Wahoo and crêpes dentelles. As the evening progresses, Bagatelle transforms from a chic restaurant to a vibrant party destination—think bottle service, dance floors, and endless energy.


Kinugawa
Set on Rue Jeanne d’Arc, in the heart of Gustavia harbor, Kinugawa brings the artistry of Japanese cuisine to the shores of Saint Barts. Located in a chic, contemporary space with sleek wooden interiors and an open sushi bar, this is where you’ll find the freshest sushi, sashimi, and inventive rolls. The chef’s omakase is a journey through the finest flavors of Japan, elevated with a Caribbean touch—think yellowtail with yuzu or scallop nigiri with a dash of local sea salt. The cocktail bar invites gourmet lovers to savour unique Franco-Japanese creations, before heading to the restaurant or for a nightcap, enjoying the relaxed, festive atmosphere overlooking the sea.


Rivyera
Located in the top luxury Christopher Hotel in Gustavia, Rivyera is an ode to the sun-kissed coasts of the Mediterranean with a menu inspired by two-star Michelin chef Arnaud Faye. Imagine the crisp flavors of the South of France fused with the island’s freshest catches—think sea bass ceviche with a hint of citrus or truffle burrata with heirloom tomatoes. The ambiance here is pure bliss; chic, breezy interiors give way to a terrace that kisses the Caribbean Sea. As the sun dips below the horizon, the atmosphere evolves into an enchanting affair with live music, craft cocktails, and a palpable joie de vivre


L’Isoletta
Step into L’Isoletta and be transported to an elegant Roman trattoria. Tucked away in the heart of Gustavia, this beloved institution is famed for its authentic Italian dishes that rival those found in Italy itself. Candle-lit tables, an exquisite wine list, and impeccable service create a romantic and refined ambiance. The signature dish, a homemade pasta with black truffle and creamy Parmigiano sauce, is a must-try. From delicate seafood risotto to decadent tiramisu, every bite is a love letter to Italy. L’Isoletta is where you come to celebrate La dolce vita—Caribbean style.


Sella
Set against the tranquil beauty of St. Jean Beach, this stylish eatery offers a refined menu that celebrates fresh and seasonal produce. Literally meaning “a rock” in Hebrew, Sella a place of pure aesthetic; ancestral rocks and stones lay the foundations for Sella’s deeply seeded tradition of hospitality & for a unique culinary experience. Delicate tartares, exquisite seafood platters, and an extensive selection of French wines take center stage here, organized by the Michelin-star chef patron Assaf Granit, born and raised in Jerusalem. The décor is effortlessly chic, with nautical elements and soft hues that mirror the sea just steps away.


The culinary essence of Saint Barts 
Saint Barts is more than just a tropical paradise; it’s a culinary destination that offers an unparalleled fusion of flavors, styles, and experiences. From beachfront lounges where you can feel the sand between your toes to sophisticated hideaways with breathtaking views, the island’s restaurants are as diverse as they are exquisite. So, whether you're seeking an afternoon of languid luxury or a night of high-octane glamour, Saint Barts’ dining scene promises to deliver, leaving you with memories that are as indelible as the island itself.





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