So, you’re heading to Aruba? Awesome! Beyond the stunning beaches, there’s a whole world of deliciousness waiting to be discovered. This isn’t your typical resort buffet guide. We’re talking about the real deal – the must-try dishes and drinks that will make your Aruban adventure unforgettable. Forget the tourist traps; we’re diving deep into the heart of Aruban cuisine, exploring family-owned restaurants, hole-in-the-wall gems, and local favorites. Get ready to loosen your belt and experience the true flavors of “One Happy Island.”
Keshi Yena: A Taste of History
Let’s start with Keshi Yena, arguably Aruba’s most iconic dish. Imagine a hollowed-out Edam cheese, filled with a savory mixture of seasoned meats (often chicken, but sometimes beef or goat), olives, capers, onions, and raisins. It’s then baked until golden brown and bubbly. The experience is pure comfort food with a touch of sophistication. The slightly salty cheese perfectly complements the sweet and savory filling. Think of it as a Caribbean casserole served inside a cheese shell! You’ll find variations everywhere, from traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations with added spices or different types of cheese. To get a truly authentic experience, try Madame Janette known for its cozy atmosphere and extensive menu of Aruban favorites. You can usually find Keshi Yena ranging from $25-$35.
Pastechi: The Perfect On-the-Go Snack
Need a quick bite while exploring Oranjestad or Eagle Beach? Grab a Pastechi. This crescent-shaped pastry is deep-fried to a golden perfection and filled with a variety of savory fillings. The most common fillings include cheese (Keshi), ground beef (Carni), chicken (Galinja), ham (Ham), or even tuna (Tonijn). They’re the perfect hand-held snack and incredibly affordable, usually costing around $1-2 each. These are often sold at local bakeries, supermarkets, and small snack stands (called “snack trucks”). Ask a local for their favorite spot; everyone has their go-to Pastechi place! The crispy, flaky crust and warm, flavorful filling will keep you coming back for more.
Sopi di Mondongo: An Adventurous Soup
For the adventurous foodies out there, Sopi di Mondongo is a must-try. This hearty soup is made with tripe (beef stomach), vegetables, and a blend of Caribbean spices. It’s a labor of love, requiring hours of slow simmering to tenderize the tripe and create a rich, flavorful broth. While the idea of tripe might be off-putting to some, don’t let it scare you! When prepared correctly, it’s incredibly tender and flavorful. Think of it as a deeply satisfying stew. You’ll find Sopi di Mondongo at local restaurants and on special menus, especially on weekends when it’s often made as a family meal. Prices typically range from $15-$25. This soup represents a true taste of Aruban heritage and is a staple in many households.
Aruban Seafood Platter: A Feast from the Sea
Being an island, Aruba boasts incredible seafood. An Aruban seafood platter is the ultimate way to sample a variety of fresh catches. Expect to find grilled snapper, shrimp, lobster, conch, and maybe even some local fish like Wahoo or Mahi-Mahi. The seafood is typically seasoned with a blend of local spices and grilled to perfection. Some restaurants will serve it with a side of funchi (a cornmeal-based side dish), rice, or plantains. For a truly memorable experience, head to a beachfront restaurant like Zeerovers. Zeerovers offers a casual, no-frills atmosphere where you can watch the fishermen bring in their daily catch. The prices will vary greatly, but expect to pay around $50-$100+ per platter, depending on the size and the types of seafood included. Be sure to ask what’s the fresh catch when you order!
Funchi: A Staple Side Dish
Funchi is a cornerstone of Aruban cuisine. This simple yet satisfying side dish is made from cornmeal, water, and salt. It’s cooked into a thick, polenta-like consistency and often served alongside stews, seafood, or meat dishes. While it might sound bland on its own, Funchi is a blank canvas that absorbs the flavors of whatever it’s paired with. It’s often fried or grilled, giving it a crispy exterior and a soft, creamy interior. You will find it in almost every local restaurant. Prices are generally very low, about $5.00 as a side dish.
Stobá: A Hearty Aruban Stew
Stobá refers to various types of Aruban stews, often slow-cooked with goat meat (Cabrito Stobá) or beef (Baka Stobá). These stews are incredibly flavorful, featuring a blend of local herbs, spices, vegetables, and often a touch of heat from Madame Jeanette peppers. The meat is incredibly tender, falling off the bone and melting in your mouth. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. The gravy is rich and savory, perfect for soaking up with Funchi or rice. Most local restaurants will have at least one type of Stobá on the menu. Expect to pay around $20-$30. It’s a taste of home for many Arubans, and a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Aruban cuisine. If you see “Cabrito Stobá” don’t hesitate!
Cala: A Sweet Rice Pancake
Time for something sweet! Cala is a traditional Aruban dessert that is a small, sweet rice pancake made with cooked rice, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re deep-fried until golden brown and crispy and often served warm. They’re more common around Christmas but some local restaurants will have it on the menu. This is also a perfect dessert for a quick dessert. Expect to pay around $5-$10 for a plate of Cala at a local bakery or restaurant.
Pan Bati: The Sweet Flatbread
Pan Bati (literally translated to “beaten bread”) is a sweet, pancake-like flatbread. Made from flour, water, sugar, and a touch of yeast, the dough is beaten until smooth and then cooked on a griddle. It is slightly sweet and soft, with a hint of tanginess. It’s often served alongside savory dishes like stews or grilled meats, providing a sweet counterpoint to the savory flavors. It’s also perfect on its own for breakfast or as a snack. You’ll find Pan Bati at most local restaurants, especially those serving traditional Aruban cuisine. It’s a simple yet satisfying bread that perfectly complements the island’s flavors. Prices are also low, about $5.00 as a side dish.
Aruban BBQ: A Casual Culinary Experience
Aruba has a thriving barbecue scene, influenced by both Caribbean and South American flavors. Look for roadside BBQs and local restaurants grilling up everything from chicken and ribs to fish and kebabs. The marinades are often secret family recipes, featuring a blend of herbs, spices, and maybe a touch of fruit juice. The meat is slow-cooked to tender perfection, infused with smoky flavor. The sides are just as important, with options like coleslaw, potato salad, rice and beans, and plantains. For a more authentic experience, venture away from the tourist areas and find a local BBQ spot. These are often family-run businesses that offer incredibly delicious food at affordable prices. Expect to pay around $15-$30 for a generous plate of BBQ with sides. Weekends are the most popular time for BBQ, so be prepared for a wait!
Special Mentions: Other Dishes Worth Trying
While the above dishes are staples, here are a few other Aruban culinary gems that are worth seeking out:
- Keri Keri: This is a shredded fish dish, usually made with Wahoo or Tuna. It’s cooked with onions, peppers, tomatoes, and Aruban spices.
- Calco Stoba: A stew made from conch, a local shellfish. It’s incredibly flavorful and tender, cooked with vegetables and Caribbean spices.
- Banana Hash: A sweet and savory dish made from mashed ripe plantains, onions, peppers, and spices. It’s often served as a side dish.
Keep an eye out for these specials on menus and don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations!
Aruban Drinks: Quench Your Thirst in Paradise
Now, let’s wash down all that delicious food with some refreshing Aruban drinks!
Aruba Ariba: The Island’s Signature Cocktail
No Aruban food trip is complete without trying the Aruba Ariba. This vibrant cocktail is a blend of vodka, rum, Coecoei (a local Aruban liqueur), creme de banana, cranberry juice, pineapple juice, and a splash of grenadine. Some variations call for Grand Marnier. It’s sweet, fruity, and incredibly refreshing – the perfect drink to sip on while watching the sunset. You’ll find it at almost every bar and restaurant on the island. Each bartender has their own take on the recipe, so try it at a few different spots to find your favorite. Expect to pay around $8-$12. It’s a classic Aruban experience that you shouldn’t miss. Also, be careful – they go down easy!
Coecoei: A Mysterious Local Liqueur
Coecoei is a unique Aruban liqueur made from the sap of the agave plant, rum, and cane sugar. It has a distinct flavor that is both sweet and slightly medicinal. It is also used in a variety of cocktails, but the Aruba Ariba is its star. Legend suggests it has been enjoyed on the island for a long time. You can find it at local liquor stores and some souvenir shops. Buying a bottle of Coecoei is a great way to take a taste of Aruba back home with you. You can purchase this item around 15$ to $25$.
Balashi Beer: Brewed in Aruba
Looking for a local beer? Try Balashi, Aruba’s national beer It is a crisp, light lager brewed with desalinated water. It’s incredibly refreshing. It is the perfect beer to enjoy on a hot day on the beach. You can find it at almost every bar, restaurant and store on the island. You have not truly experienced Aruba until you have tasted this local beverage. A can from a store is around $2, whereas in a bar or restaurant it may cost you around $4-$6, depending on the location.
Fresh Fruit Juices: A Tropical Delight
Aruba has a variety of fresh fruit juices, especially mango, papaya, pineapple, and passion fruit. Most local restaurants and stands will have fresh fruit juices. You may also ask about the fresh fruit options available for that day, since they depend on seasonality. Also, this drink alternative is a healthy and delicious way to keep cool and hydrated under the Caribbean sun. Expect to around $3-$5 for a glass.
Ponche Crema: A Creamy Holiday Treat (and Beyond)
Ponche Crema is a rich, creamy liqueur similar to eggnog. It’s generally made with eggs, rum, milk, sugar, and spices like vanilla and nutmeg. While traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season, you can often find it year-round at local stores and some restaurants. It’s a decadent and flavorful drink that’s perfect as an after-dinner treat. It can also be a delicious souvenir or local gift. Expect to pay around $15-$25 for a bottle.
Tips for Exploring the Aruban Food Scene
Ready to embark on your culinary adventure? Here are a few tips to make the most of it:
- Venture Beyond the Tourist Areas: The best food experiences are often found in local neighborhoods, away from the crowded tourist spots.
- Ask the Locals: Don’t be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations. They know the best hidden gems and insider tips.
- Try the Specials: Many restaurants offer daily or weekly specials featuring traditional Aruban dishes. This is a great way to sample something new and unique.
- Learn a Few Basic Papiamento Phrases: A few basic phrases like “Masha Danki” (thank you) and “Bon Apetito” (enjoy your meal) can go a long way with local establishments.
- Be Open to New Experiences: Don’t be afraid to try something you’ve never had before. The Aruban food scene is full of surprises.
- Check Reviews (But Take Them with a Grain of Salt): Online reviews can be helpful. But remember that everyone has different tastes. The best way to find out if you like something is to try it yourself.
- Consider a Food Tour: A food tour can be a great way to sample a variety of dishes and learn about Aruban cuisine from a local expert.
- Pace Yourself!: You will want to try everything, but it’s important not to eat everything in one day. Enjoy the different spots and cuisines during your vacation.
Where to Find Authentic Aruban Food
While many restaurants serve “Aruban” dishes, here are a few places (mentioned above but worth repeating) known for their authentic cuisine:
- Madame Janette: An upscale restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and classic Aruban dishes. They provide an outdoor seating option as well.
- Zeerovers: A casual, beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood.
- Local Snack Trucks: Keep an eye out for roadside snack trucks serving Pastechi, Pan Bati, and other local snacks. Ask a local to recommend their favorite.
- Super Food Plaza: Although a grocery store, they also have a cafe where you can find local dishes.
Remember that the best way to find authentic food is often to explore and ask for recommendations!
Budgeting for Food in Aruba
Aruba can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to enjoy the food scene on a budget:
- Eat at Local Restaurants: Local restaurants are generally much more affordable than tourist-oriented restaurants.
- Take Advantage of Happy Hour: Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers.
- Cook Some of Your Own Meals: If you have access to a kitchen, consider cooking some of your own meals using ingredients from local markets.
- Look for Lunch Specials: Many restaurants offer lunch specials that are more affordable than dinner prices.
By planning ahead and being mindful of your spending, you can enjoy the Aruban food scene without breaking the bank.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to visit Aruba for foodies?
Aruba’s weather is relatively consistent year-round, so there isn’t necessarily a “best” time to visit specifically for food. However, you might find more seasonal specials during the holidays. Consider checking for food festivals or events happening during your travel dates such as Aruba Wine and Dine Restaurant Week.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available in Aruba?
Yes, while Aruban cuisine is traditionally meat and seafood-heavy, most restaurants are more and more accomodating to vegetarian and vegan requests. Look for vegetable stews, salads, and rice dishes. Many restaurants also offer vegetarian or vegan versions of traditional Aruban dishes.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Aruba?
Yes, Aruba has one of the highest quality tap water in the world, thanks to its desalination plant (WEB Aruba). You can drink it, use it for cooking, and brush your teeth with it without any concerns.
Do I need to make reservations at restaurants in Aruba?
It depends on the restaurant. Popular restaurants, especially during peak season, often require reservations. It’s always a good idea to call ahead or book online to avoid disappointment.
What kind of currency is used in Aruba?
The official currency of Aruba is the Aruban Florin (AWG), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted across the island. You do not need to change currency.
Are there any food allergies I should be aware of in Aruba?
Be aware of seafood allergies, as seafood is a staple of Aruban cuisine. Also, some dishes may contain nuts, so be sure to inquire about ingredients if you have a nut allergy. It’s always important to inform your server about any allergies before ordering.
What are some common Aruban spices and herbs?
Some common Aruban spices and herbs include cumin, coriander, paprika, thyme, oregano, and Madame Jeanette peppers. These give Aruban cuisine its unique flavor profile.
Are there any cultural norms I should be aware of when dining in Aruba?
Tipping is customary in Aruba, usually around 15-20% of the bill. Dress codes are generally casual, but some upscale restaurants may require more formal attire. Also, be respectful of local customs and traditions.
What’s “dushi”?
One word you should learn is “dushi.” In Papiamento, it means “sweet,” “delicious,” “nice,” “lovely,” or “good.” You’ll hear it a lot, and you’ll want to use it to describe your Aruban food experience!
References
- WEB Aruba N.V.
So there you have it – The Ultimate Aruba Foodie Bucket List! Now it’s your turn to get out there and start exploring the delicious flavors of “One Happy Island!” Don’t be shy; venture off the beaten path, try new things, and embrace the local culture. Are you ready to book that flight and embark on a tasty adventure? Go ahead, you deserve it!
