With more than 90 nationalities living in harmony, Aruba is home to one of the Caribbean’s most diverse populations, and the island’s culinary scene has benefitted greatly from the contributions of this international community.
Many of Aruba’s traditional dishes have European influences—particularly Dutch, as savored in dishes like our keshi yena, a casserole made by filling the rind of a Gouda cheese wheel with spiced meat, olives, capers, and raisins covered in a layer of melted Gouda. Our Latin American neighbors brought with them traditions like ayacas (similar to a tamale but with plantain leaves instead of corn husks), and our Caribbean neighbors share their curries, Johnny cakes, and jerk dishes. Local fishermen head out daily to bring the sea’s bounty of fresh seafood, with local catches like snapper, grouper, tuna, and Caribbean lobster making their way into local restaurants. One of the must-try dishes in Aruba is Pastechi, which is a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or seafood. Another popular dish is Pica di Papaya, which is a spicy papaya sauce.
Aruba’s contemporary dining scene is on-trend, offering foodies an exceptional culinary journey while making them realize that a single meal can be enough of a reason to come to One Happy Island from anywhere on the planet. From island-fusion-inspired chef’s tables to waterfront feet-in-the-sand venues, the experience is one-of-a-kind.
Aruba has never had a shortage of fantastic restaurants to choose from. Grab your fork and get ready for some exciting culinary adventures!