The Bahamas, especially Paradise Island, is a destination that truly celebrates culinary exploration. Atlantis Paradise Island, a sprawling resort known globally, has been consistently elevating its dining scene, and recent expansions underscore this commitment. It’s a place where you can find world-class chefs and exciting new concepts alongside classic Bahamian flavors, all within a vibrant tropical setting.
New Dining Experiences
I always look for places that offer a fresh take on local ingredients, and Atlantis has been doing just that. This spring, several new dining venues and concepts have opened, adding even more variety to their already impressive collection. It’s exciting to see such a dynamic culinary landscape unfold here.
One of the most anticipated arrivals is Claudio’s. This is the first location outside of its well-loved New York roots, and it’s situated beautifully above the Water’s Edge Lagoon. The view of the Royal Towers and the turquoise waters is breathtaking, and the nautical decor, complete with sailboats named after Caribbean cocktails, adds a charming touch. These sailboats are even inspired by actual Bahamian Class E sailboats, which is a lovely nod to local tradition.
When you visit Claudio’s, I’d recommend trying some of their exclusive dishes. The Cracked Lobster is a must for seafood lovers, and the Conch Fritters are a classic Bahamian starter that’s done wonderfully here. They also have Cracked Conch Sliders and Tuna Tartare Nachos, which sound like a delicious fusion. For drinks, the Junkanoo Punch is a great way to embrace the local spirit, or you might prefer a Coral Sands or a refreshing Mudslide. The menu is family-friendly, so it’s a good spot if you’re traveling with children.
Another vibrant addition is Cocodrilo, a cantina-style restaurant that’s now open near The Coral and The Royal. It perfectly blends a lively atmosphere with a relaxed beach vibe, offering coastal Mexican cuisine. This is the kind of place where the energy is high, but you can still linger and enjoy the scenery.
At Cocodrilo, the menu is packed with flavorful options. I’m particularly drawn to the Conch Ceviche, which offers a local twist on a classic, and the Blackened Shrimp Tostada sounds incredible with its combination of charred corn, pickled chiles, and avocado. If you’re looking for something more substantial, their Tacos & Burrito Bowls with slow-cooked Barbacoa or Carnitas are a solid choice. And for a sweet finish, the Churro Sundaes with vanilla soft serve and cinnamon sugar crumble is sure to be a hit. Their cocktail list also features interesting choices like the Cantarito, made with Teremana Reposado tequila, and the Komos Elderflower Spritz.
For a limited time this spring, I’m really looking forward to experiencing Kò Sà-Wăn, a Thai dinner pop-up by Chef Ian Kittichai. Known for his work at Issaya Siamese Club and his appearances on various culinary shows, Chef Kittichai is bringing bold Bangkok flavors to The Cove’s Perch restaurant. The name itself, Kò Sà-Wăn, meaning Paradise Island, sets a beautiful tone.
The curated menu honors Chef Kittichai’s Thai heritage. You can expect vibrant starters like Yum Sum O (pomelo salad) and aromatic soups such as Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut-galangal soup) and Tom Yum Goong (spicy prawn and lemongrass soup). For mains, dishes like Hor Mok Pla Gao (grouper steamed in banana leaf) and See Khrong Nua Gaeng Kiew Wan (beef short rib in green curry) are served family-style, which is perfect for sharing and trying a bit of everything. The desserts, like Sangkhaya Intapholam (pandan-date pudding), and the Thai-inspired cocktails, such as the Coconut Lemongrass Martini, sound like a delightful end to the meal.
For a more laid-back experience with stunning views, Sunset Point at Harborside Resort is now open. It offers spectacular vistas of Nassau Harbor, making it an ideal spot to catch a Bahamian sunset. The menu focuses on contemporary, coastal small plates that are perfect for sharing while you relax.
I’d suggest trying the Creamy Jerk Spiced Dip with vegetable chips or the Island Watermelon Salad for a refreshing starter. The Bahamian Snapper Skewers with a West Indian curry dressing are a standout, offering a taste of local flavors with a sophisticated flair. Sunset Point is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, providing a casual and enjoyable atmosphere to savor the local cuisine. It’s a wonderful place to unwind after a busy day of exploring.
Beachfront Relaxation
Beyond the restaurants, Atlantis has also enhanced its beachside offerings, which are crucial for a truly immersive island experience. When I visit a tropical destination, spending time on the beach is non-negotiable, and these new concepts make it even more appealing.
The Edge Beach Reserve and The Beach Bar offer exclusive access to a prime stretch of beach. This is perfect for those who want a dedicated space to relax with breathtaking views of the Caribbean waters and white sands. The reserve provides comfortable beach lounge chairs with shade or daybeds for two, along with personalized service from The Beach Bar. It’s the kind of thoughtful touch that elevates a beach day from ordinary to exceptional.
At The Beach Bar, you can expect signature island-style cocktails. The Coconut Monkey, served right in a whole coconut, sounds like a fun and tropical choice. They also offer frozen tropical drinks like the Guava Daiquiri, along with seasonal bites. Reservations are recommended here, especially during peak times, to ensure you get a spot. I’ve learned over the years that booking these desirable beachfront spots in advance, particularly if they offer dedicated service, is key to a stress-free relaxation period.
It’s also worth noting how such expansions build on existing culinary highlights. Atlantis is home to restaurants by globally recognized chefs like Alon Shaya, JJ Johnson, José Andrés, Michael White, and Nobu Matsuhisa. The recent Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival, which featured many of these celebrated chefs, further solidifies the resort’s reputation as a culinary hub. This continuous innovation ensures there’s always something new and exciting for visitors, whether they’re seeking fine dining or simple, delicious beachfront fare.
Experiencing Atlantis
Atlantis Paradise Island is more than just a resort; it’s a destination designed to immerse you in Bahamian culture and provide a wide array of experiences. From the exhilarating Aquaventure water park and the impressive marine habitats to the diverse lodging options like The Royal, The Coral, and The Cove, there’s a lot to explore.
With over 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges, the culinary options are vast, featuring celebrity chefs and diverse cuisines. I always find that exploring the different dining venues within a large resort like this can be an adventure in itself. Tasting dishes from chefs like José Andrés at Fish or Nobu Matsuhisa at Nobu offers a chance to experience world-class cooking right in the Bahamas.
Beyond dining, the resort offers activities for everyone. You can visit Dolphin Cay for marine animal encounters, relax at Mandara Spa, or engage in sports at the tennis and pickleball center. For families, there are options like Atlantis Kids Adventures, a movie theater, and CRUSH, a teen nightclub. The Lost City Escape Rooms and mini golf provide fun challenges for all ages. And of course, there’s the Atlantis Casino and an array of luxury shops.
When planning a visit, I usually try to balance relaxation with exploration. For example, I’d dedicate a morning to enjoying the beach at The Edge Beach Reserve, perhaps trying one of the signature cocktails while the kids build sandcastles. Then, in the afternoon, we might head to Aquaventure for some water park fun. For dinner, it’s great to have options ranging from the vibrant Cocodrilo to the more refined Kò Sà-Wăn pop-up, depending on the mood.
It’s also wise to consider the timing of your visits to different venues. While many restaurants are open throughout the day, some, like the pop-ups or specialized beach services, might have specific hours or require reservations. I’ve found that checking the resort’s daily schedule or making advance bookings for popular spots, especially if you’re traveling during a busy season, can save a lot of time and potential disappointment. The sheer scale of Atlantis means there’s always something happening, but being organized helps you make the most of it.
What’s the best way to get around Atlantis?
Navigating the expansive Atlantis resort is generally straightforward. The resort offers comfortable walking paths, and many areas are easily accessible by foot. For longer distances or when traveling with young children, golf cart transportation is often available within the resort grounds. I’ve found that comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll likely be doing a fair bit of walking to discover all the different sections of the resort, from the beaches to the various dining and entertainment venues. Embracing the walk allows you to appreciate the lush landscaping and the vibrant atmosphere.
What should I taste on my first visit to the new restaurants?
For a first taste of the new culinary offerings, I’d definitely recommend starting with the local specialties. At Claudio’s, the Cracked Lobster or the exclusive Cracked Conch Sliders are a great way to experience their take on Bahamian seafood. Cocodrilo’s Conch Ceviche offers a refreshing and zesty introduction to their Mexican-inspired menu. If you manage to snag a spot at the Kò Sà-Wăn pop-up, the Yum Sum O salad or the Hor Mok Pla Gao are vibrant choices that showcase Chef Kittichai’s skill with Thai flavors. Don’t forget to try some of the signature cocktails at each venue to complete your tasting experience!