The Best Restaurants in Curaçao: A Culinary Adventure

Curaçao is famous not only for its turquoise waters, vibrant reefs, and Dutch-Caribbean architecture but also for its rich and diverse cuisine. With flavors influenced by Caribbean, Dutch, African, Latin American, and international traditions, dining in Curaçao is a true exploration of taste. Here is a guide to 15 exceptional restaurants across the island, each offering a unique experience and delicious dishes:

1. Baoase Culinary Beach Restaurant – Willemstad

Price: $80–150 per person
Location: Baoase Luxury Resort, Willemstad
Fine dining by the sea, offering gourmet tasting menus with Caribbean and European fusion, complemented by a romantic beachfront setting.

2. The Wine Cellar – Willemstad

Price: $60–120 per person
Location: Pietermaai District
One of Curaçao’s most renowned fine-dining restaurants, serving French-inspired cuisine with an extensive wine list and impeccable service.

3. Plasa Bieu (Old Market) – Willemstad

Price: $10–20 per person
Location: Downtown Willemstad
A must-visit local food hall serving authentic Curaçaoan dishes like stoba (stew), kabritu (goat), funchi (cornmeal), and fresh fish.

4. MosaCaña Bar & Kitchen – Willemstad

Price: $25–50 per person
Location: Pietermaai District
Trendy restaurant and cocktail bar blending Caribbean flavors with international influences. Popular for tapas-style sharing plates and creative cocktails.

5. Gouverneur de Rouville – Willemstad (Otrabanda)

Price: $30–60 per person
Location: Otrabanda waterfront
Historic colonial building with a terrace overlooking the famous Handelskade. Offers international cuisine with Caribbean flair.

6. Fort Nassau – Willemstad

Price: $40–80 per person
Location: Hilltop overlooking Willemstad
Fine dining in a restored 18th-century fort with panoramic views of the island. Known for steaks, seafood, and romantic sunsets.

7. Rozendaels – Willemstad

Price: $25–45 per person
Location: Penstraat
Charming garden restaurant offering Caribbean specialties like keshi yena (stuffed cheese), plantain dishes, and fresh seafood.

8. Fishalicious – Willemstad

Price: $40–70 per person
Location: Penstraat
Seafood-focused restaurant with a European touch. Famous for fresh fish, oysters, and curated wine pairings.

9. Pietermaai District Dining – Willemstad

Price: $20–60 per person
Location: Pietermaai
This colorful neighborhood is filled with boutique restaurants and bars. Highlights include Kome (fusion cuisine) and Miles Jazz Café (live music with tapas).

10. Karakter – Coral Estate

Price: $25–50 per person
Location: Coral Estate Beach
Beachfront dining offering Caribbean and international cuisine, perfect for sunset dinners. Famous for lionfish dishes and cocktails.

11. Number Ten Curaçao – Willemstad

Price: $15–30 per person
Location: Willemstad suburbs
A chic brunch and lunch spot serving artisanal coffee, fresh pastries, and creative breakfast plates in a stylish setting.

12. De Visserij Fish Market – Piscadera Bay

Price: $15–35 per person
Location: Piscadera Bay
Casual, authentic fish shack where the catch of the day is served fresh with fries or funchi. A favorite among locals.

13. Brisa do Mar (Pop’s Place) – Caracasbaai

Price: $15–30 per person
Location: Caracasbaai Beach
Laid-back seaside eatery serving grilled fish, lobster, and Creole dishes with ocean views.

14. Landhuis Klein Santa Martha Restaurant – Soto

Price: $20–40 per person
Location: Westpunt
Located in a historic plantation house, this restaurant offers local dishes and Caribbean-European fusion in a unique heritage setting.

15. Iguana Café – Handelskade, Willemstad

Price: $10–25 per person
Location: Handelskade waterfront
Casual café famous for its bright-yellow iguana stew, cold drinks, and lively atmosphere overlooking the floating Queen Emma Bridge.

Tips for a Memorable Culinary Experience in Curaçao

• Try local dishes: Don’t miss keshi yena (cheese stuffed with meat), stoba di kabritu (goat stew), pastechi (savory pastries), and fresh lionfish.

• Visit local markets: Explore Plasa Bieu and floating markets for traditional Creole food and Venezuelan fresh produce.

• Sample Caribbean rum & liqueurs: Curaçao is world-famous for its Blue Curaçao liqueur — take a tasting tour at Landhuis Chobolobo.

• Pair with tropical drinks: Enjoy fresh tamarind juice, awa di lamunchi (lime water), or cocktails made with local rum.

With this guide, you’ll savor the essence of Curaçao’s vibrant culinary scene while creating unforgettable memories across its beaches, colonial quarters, and seaside villages.