10 of the Best Foods, Drinks, and Desserts to Try in Aruba

Aruba, like many other island nations, is an exotic hodgepodge of culinary influences. Though Spanish and Portuguese are the biggest contributors, Aruba’s wide assortment of ethnicities each bring something to the table. Here are ten of the best foods to check out while you’re enjoying your stay at this beautiful island nation.

Cabrito at The Old Cunucu House

The Old Cunucu House is a traditional Aruban home built about 150 years ago and restored into a restaurant. Featuring a diverse menu that blends Aruban staples and international cuisine, their cabrito is particularly good. This classic dish, which is essentially roast goat kid, comes accompanied with funchi (a cornmeal side dish) or pan bati (Aruban pancakes) for a hearty meal you’ll love.

Aruba Ariba at Literally Any Bar

Seriously, this signature Aruban cocktail is all over the place. The Aruba Ariba is made with coecoei, a distinctive sweet liquor made from an agave plant with rum and cane sugar. Coecoei can only be purchased in Aruba, which is part of what makes this drink so special. A sweet, fruity beverage that packs a powerful punch! Don’t leave the island without giving the Aruba Ariba a shot!

Seafood at Zeerovers

Zeerover means Sea Pirate, but there’ll be no plank-walking necessary. Zeerovers is a restaurant the locals love, away from the big cities and hotels. Choose the amount of fish or shrimp you want—either by weight or count—and the fry cooks will work their magic. For some incredibly fresh seafood at reasonable prices, Zeerovers is the way to go. The pan bati is also particularly good.

Balashi and Chill Beer, Pretty Much Anywhere

Balashi is the only homegrown beer in Aruba, made “with Aruba’s pristine water”—it says so right on the can. Balashi is a thirst-quenching classic Caribbean beer made with 100% malts and no rice fillers. Chill beer, on the other hand, is preferred by most tourists.  It’s a beer similar to Corona, except with a cooler and lighter citrus flavor.  If you’re looking to relax on the beach, crack open a can and enjoy the refreshing flavor.

Balchi Pisca at Peanuts

Peanuts restaurants have a reputation for the best peanut sauce around. They also make fantastic balchi pisca, or fish balls. A Dutch Caribbean classic, locals love them—and you will too!

Lenga Stoba at Gostoso 

Lenga stoba is an Aruban favorite, so don’t be deterred. Stoba is a thick, meaty stew, and lenga stoba is beef tongue. If that sounds too daunting for you, don’t be afraid—Gostoso cooks theirs perfectly tender, and bursting with flavor. Try it and see what you think!

Keri at Passions on the Beach

Keri is a classic fish entrée, an island favorite. You can find it at many Aruban restaurants, but the tiki torches and white sand of Passions on the Beach provide the perfect ambiance to try this delicious dish. The annatto-spiced fish, served with soft polenta and fried plantains, will quickly become one of your favorite Aruban selections.

Cuminda di lama Tempera at The Queen’s Traditional Kitchen

If a good appetizer is what you want, cuminda di lama tempera is always a good bet. Pickled seafood with fresh local herbs, this dish is so good you may not even want to move to the main course.

“Claudio Wolf” at The Old Fisherman

The island of Aruba is an ideal spot for those who love seafood. The Old Fisherman, located in downtown Oranjestad, is a local favorite, naming courses after local sea heroes and fishermen. For a true taste of Aruban seafood, try the “Claudio Wolf”—a whole red snapper, grilled or fried.

Quesillo Duo at The Restaurant at Tierra del Sol

The Restaurant at Tierra del Sol serves plenty of incredible dishes, but their signature dessert is particularly noteworthy. The quesillo duo is basically a caramel flan with chocolate brownie, topped with butterscotch caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream. The flan is utter perfection, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better ending to your meal.

Italian Food atop the Hudishibana Hill at Faro Blanco Restaurant

While Aruba is not often confused with Italy, the Faro Blanco Restaurant transports travelers with picturesque views and the best Italian cuisine.  This former lighthouse combines Aruban history with spectacular sunsets and mouth-watering Italian meals that make dining truly memorable.   It’s a must for those who want to see Aruba in a more natural setting.

Sweet Potato Mash with Cinnamon and Sugar at Papiamento Restaurant
The Papiamento Restaurant is perhaps the best dining experience on the island.  This European museum meets tropical paradise is, in itself, a unique setting.  The restaurant is surrounded by lush gardens, a turquoise pool and has European antiques dating back to the early 1800s.  However, that’s just eye candy compared to what’s on the menu.  Dishes are based upon Aruban dishes but given a modern twist.  Be sure to try the sweet potato mash with cinnamon and sugar which is said to be more like a dessert than a side dish!

Chocolate Lava Cake at The Screaming Eagle

With numerous awards ranging from #1 restaurant in the Caribbean, Best Chef of the Year and Wine Spectator, the Screaming Eagle Restaurant and Lounge won’t disappoint.  If you really want to spoil travelers, Dinner-in-Bed is what the Screaming Eagle says in a “classy-chic style experience.”  Travelers will certainly remember dining in comfort on an outdoor patio on a tropical evening!  Don’t forget to end with a dessert favorite: the chocolate lava cake which is served with strawberries and vanilla ice cream.

Planning travel to Aruba?  Contact Gavel International for more information about travel incentives and meeting planning in Aruba.