Aruba’s dining scene is a delightful fusion of Caribbean vibrancy and international sophistication, where local ingredients dance harmoniously, when paired beautifully with global wines creating an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a hearty keshi yena paired with a rich Malbec, Aruba offers a diverse range of options to tantalize your taste buds.
A Taste of Aruba: Local Cuisine Takes Center Stage
Forget the usual tourist traps – to truly experience Aruba, you need to dive headfirst into its local cuisine. From casual beachside grills to elegant restaurants, the island offers a wide array of dishes that showcase its unique flavors. Start with a classic Aruban breakfast: pan bati. This sweet, pancake-like bread is often served with cheese or jam and is a perfect way to kick off your day. Pair it with a light-bodied sparkling wine or a dry Prosecco to balance the sweetness.
Keshi Yena: A Culinary Icon: No trip to Aruba is complete without trying keshi yena, a baked cheese casserole traditionally filled with spiced meat, olives, and raisins. This dish is a true testament to Aruba’s Dutch influence and has become a symbol of the island’s culinary identity. The rich, savory flavor of keshi yena calls for a wine with enough body and complexity to stand up to it. A medium-bodied Malbec, with its notes of dark fruit and subtle spice, is an excellent choice. Alternatively, a Chilean Carmenere can also work well, offering similar fruit-forward flavors and a hint of earthy notes.
Seafood Sensations: Given its island location, it’s no surprise that Aruba excels in seafood. Fresh fish like red snapper, grouper, and mahi-mahi are staples on many menus. For grilled fish, a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc is a classic pairing. The wine’s high acidity and grassy notes will cut through the richness of the fish and complement its delicate flavor. If the fish is prepared with a richer sauce, consider a slightly more full-bodied Chardonnay with subtle oaky notes. For example, a simple grilled Grouper at Zeerovers, a casual seafood restaurant in Savaneta (near the airport – around $25-35 per person), paired with a glass of Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc (widely available in Aruba) is a match made in heaven.
Beyond grilled fish, don’t miss the opportunity to try Aruban seafood stews and casseroles. These dishes often feature a medley of seafood cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. A versatile rosé can be a great pairing choice here, offering both fruity flavors and a refreshing acidity that will complement the stew. A dry rosé from Provence, France, or a Pinot Noir rosé from California would be excellent options.
Exploring Local Flavors: Venture beyond the well-known dishes and explore some of Aruba’s more unique culinary offerings. Try cabrito stoba, a goat stew that is a popular local favorite. The tender goat meat is slow-cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables and spices. Because of the rich flavor a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Rioja would go very well.
Navigating Aruba’s Restaurant Scene
Aruba boasts a diverse restaurant scene, catering to every taste and budget. From casual beachfront eateries to upscale fine-dining establishments, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from. To make the most of your culinary adventure, here are a few tips for navigating the island’s restaurant scene:
Making Reservations: Especially during peak season, it’s highly recommended to make reservations in advance, particularly for popular restaurants and fine-dining establishments. You can often make reservations online or by phone. Many restaurants also use OpenTable, making it easy to book a table in just a few clicks.
Exploring Different Areas: While many of the popular restaurants are located in the Palm Beach and Eagle Beach areas, it’s worth venturing out to explore other parts of the island. Oranjestad, the capital city, offers a mix of local and international cuisine, while San Nicolas, located on the southern tip of the island, is known for its authentic Aruban eateries. Renting a car is the easiest way to get around and explore the entire island.
Dress Codes: Dress codes in Aruba are generally casual, especially during the day. However, some of the more upscale restaurants may have a more formal dress code, particularly in the evening. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about the dress code.
Lunch vs. Dinner: Consider having lunch at restaurants that are known for their views. During the day, you can enjoy the scenery without the higher dinner prices. Elements Restaurant at Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort is an excellent example of an area to visit during lunch to save money, but still enjoy the view. (Lunch entrees range from $20-35).
Wine Selection and Availability
Aruba’s wine selection has improved dramatically over the years. Now, you can find a wide variety of wines from around the world at both restaurants and liquor stores. The larger supermarkets, such as Ling & Sons IGA and Super Food Plaza, have an impressive selection of wines from different regions and price points. While you may find some local wines, most of the wines available in Aruba are imported.
Ordering Wine at Restaurants: Most restaurants in Aruba have a wine list, although the size and selection can vary. Don’t hesitate to ask the sommelier or server for recommendations. They can help you choose a wine that pairs well with your meal and fits your budget. Wine prices in Aruba can be higher than in other countries due to import taxes and other fees. Be prepared to pay a premium for your favorite bottle.
Wine by the Glass: Ordering wine by the glass is a great way to sample different wines without committing to an entire bottle. Many restaurants offer a variety of wines by the glass, allowing you to experiment and find your perfect pairings. Pay attention to the house wines, sometimes, quality is sacrificed. If unfamiliar, selecting a wine by the glass is an ideal approach to test it out. A good tip is to ask the server about their most popular by-the-glass options.
Specific Restaurant Recommendations and Wine Pairings
To help you plan your culinary adventure, here are a few specific restaurant recommendations in Aruba, along with suggested wine pairings:
Flying Fishbone: Renowned for its unique setting, where you can dine with your feet in the sand. Flying Fishbone specializes in seafood with a Caribbean flair. For the grilled red snapper, opt for a crisp Albariño from Spain. Its citrusy notes and minerality will complement the delicate flavor of the fish and create a harmonious pairing. Prices for entrees range from $40-$60.
Papiamento Restaurant: Set in a historic Aruban house, this restaurant offers a romantic and elegant dining experience. Papiamento serves a mix of Aruban and international cuisine. Try the “Keshi Yena Papiamento,” a unique take on the classic dish. The creamy texture of the cheese and the savory filling call for a full-bodied Chardonnay with buttery notes. A Californian Chardonnay from Sonoma or Napa Valley would be an excellent choice. Entrees average $45-$55.
Gianni’s Ristorante Italiano: For lovers of Italian food, Gianni’s Ristorante Italiano is a must-visit. Whether you’re craving pasta dishes, pizza, or seafood, they have it all. With the Pasta al Formaggio Parmigiano, where pasta is finished in a giant Parmigiano wheel right at your table, a light to medium-bodied Italian red wine, such as a Chianti Classico, would be a good choice. The wine’s acidity and earthy notes will cut through the richness of the cheese and complement the savory flavors of the pasta. Pasta entrees cost between $25-40.
Madame Janette: Madame Janette is a unique and popular restaurant known for its charming atmosphere and eclectic cuisine. The menu features a mix of international dishes with a Caribbean twist, prepared with high-quality ingredients and creative flair. The setting is beautiful, with tables set in a lush garden under twinkling lights. For the popular Almond Grouper the slightly sweet fish with a nutty crust and creamy sauce requires a wine with some sweetness. A German Riesling Kabinett, with its balance of sweetness and acidity, will perfectly complement the dish. Main courses range from $40 to $55 and are generally of large portion sizes. The easiest way to get there is via taxi.
Passions on the Beach: Dinning directly on the beach makes this a superb romantic spot. Enjoy a meal over looking the water and sand. For the sunset, they usually play live steel drum music. You can enjoy an Aruban seafood stew and paired with a versatile dry rosé from Provence is a delightful choice. The wine’s fruity notes and refreshing acidity will enhance the flavors of the stew. Entrees are between $30-$50, and reservations are recommended, specifically requesting a front-row table near the water’s edge. The best way to get there is via taxi.
Beyond Restaurants: Wine Experiences in Aruba
While dining at restaurants is a great way to experience Aruba’s wine scene, there are also other wine-related experiences to explore:
Wine Tasting Events: Keep an eye out for wine tasting events that may be held at hotels, restaurants, or wine shops. These events offer the opportunity to sample a variety of wines and learn more about different regions and grape varietals.
Private Wine Dinners: Some restaurants offer private wine dinners, where you can enjoy a multi-course meal paired with carefully selected wines. These dinners are a great way to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in a unique culinary experience. Contact the restaurants directly to inquire about this experience.
Wine and Cheese Pairings: Find local shops that offer pairing advice, enabling you to enjoy a wine and cheese night at your hotel. Local shops that have very specific pairings can make it a very personalized evening.
Practical Tips for Wine Lovers in Aruba
Here are some additional practical tips to keep in mind when exploring Aruba’s wine scene:
Check the Vintage: Similar to anywhere in the world, always check the vintage of the wine before ordering. A newer vintage isn’t always better, and the best year for a specific brand can greatly improve your experience.
Consider the Climate: Aruba has a tropical climate, so it’s important to choose wines that will hold up well in the heat. Light-bodied wines with high acidity, such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and rosé, are generally good choices. Red wines should be served slightly chilled to prevent them from becoming too warm. Keep them indoors or in wine coolers, if available.
Stay Hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when enjoying wine in the sun. Dehydration can accentuate the effects of alcohol and spoil your enjoyment.
Duty-Free Allowance: If you’re planning to bring wine to Aruba, be aware of the duty-free allowance. According to Aruba’s customs regulations, you can usually bring in a limited amount of alcohol for personal consumption without paying duty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the legal drinking age in Aruba?
The legal drinking age in Aruba is 18 years old.
Can I buy wine at the airport in Aruba?
Yes, there are duty-free shops at the airport where you can purchase wine upon arrival or departure.
Are there any local wineries in Aruba?
Aruba’s climate is not conducive to grape growing, so there are no local wineries. All wines are imported.
Is it customary to tip at restaurants in Aruba?
A service charge of 15-20% is commonly added to restaurant bills in Aruba. Be sure to check your bill to see if a service charge has already been included.
What currency is used in Aruba?
The Aruban Florin (AWG) is the official currency of Aruba, but US dollars are widely accepted.
Can I bring my own wine to a restaurant in Aruba?
This varies from restaurant to restaurant. Some restaurants may allow you to bring your own wine but charge a corkage fee. It’s always best to check with the restaurant in advance.
References
- OpenTable
- Aruba Customs
- Aruba.com restaurant listings
Ready to embark on your own Aruban wine and dine adventure? Book your trip today and discover the enchanting flavors of this Caribbean paradise! Don’t just dream about it, taste it! Start planning your vacation now and prepare to be amazed by the unique culinary experiences that Aruba has to offer. Bon appétit and bon bini (welcome) to Aruba!
