Bonaire Restaurant Guide 2024
Bonaire, a picturesque island nestled in the Caribbean, offers a vibrant dining scene that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. From quaint local eateries serving authentic Caribbean dishes to upscale restaurants offering international cuisine, Bonaire has something for everyone.
Are you a food enthusiast or a traveler seeking food adventures? Or are you a local looking for new dining experiences? This guide we will take you on a culinary journey, exploring some of the best restaurants on Bonaire.
Discover Bonaire’s Thriving Culinary Scene
Bonaire, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, also boasts a thriving culinary scene. The island’s diverse cultural influences, including Dutch, Caribbean, and Latin American, are reflected in its rich and flavorful cuisine. Expect a delightful blend of traditional dishes, international flavors, and innovative culinary creations.
If you love food or just want to savor some tasty dishes on your vacation, Bonaire’s restaurants and eateries have you covered. Enjoy your holiday!
A Blend of Cultures: Fusion Cuisine on Bonaire
One of the most exciting aspects of dining on Bonaire is the fusion of different culinary traditions. Many restaurants on the island blend local flavors with international techniques to create unique and innovative dishes. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors as you indulge in dishes that seamlessly combine the best of Bonaire and the world.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Brass Boer Bonaire
Enjoy the fusion of Dutch and Caribbean cuisine at Brass Boer Bonaire, a restaurant by Jonnie and Thérèse Boer, the owners of the world-renowned De Librije. Dine at the elegant restaurant, the casual beach brasserie, or the private table.
Senang Restaurant
Senang Restaurant is a fusion of the East and the Caribbean. Located by the pool of Delfins Beach Resort, Senang invites you to enjoy the Oriental cuisine in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. Choose your own dishes or let the chef surprise you with the Senang table.
Casa Bizarro Bonaire
If you’re looking for something different and delicious, Casa Bizarro Bonaire is the place for you. This restaurant offers a fusion of Asian cuisine and carefully crafted international dishes that blend beautifully together.
Beachfront Dining: Scenic Ambiance and Delicious Food
Imagine dining with your toes in the sand, savoring a mouthwatering meal while enjoying breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. Bonaire offers several beachfront restaurants where you can experience this idyllic setting.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Sebastian’s Restaurant Bonaire
Sebastians Bonaire for a romantic dining experience with a mesmerizing view of the Caribbean Sea. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a sunset dinner on the pier. Don’t miss their unique ‘Dine with the Chef’ experience.
The Dock
Relax and enjoy the fresh food and drinks at The Dock Restaurant & Lounge Bar, located by the pool of Ocean Breeze Boutique Hotel & Marina. The Dock offers a cosy and casual dining experience with a beautiful view over the harbour and lagoon.
Ingridiënts Restaurant
Experience dining differently at Ingridients Restaurant. Open from Thursday to Monday, enjoy the chef’s most delicious creations, elegant wines, and the best view of the Caribbean Sea. This restaurant is far from clichés and common places, offering a unique and personal dining experience.
Seafood Extravaganza: Fresh Catches of the Day
As an island surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, Bonaire boasts an abundance of fresh seafood. From succulent shrimp to flaky fish, you can relish a seafood extravaganza at the island’s many seafood-focused restaurants.
RESTAURANT TIPS
It Rains Fishes
Indulge in a delectable seafood-focused menu at It Rains Fishes. Located in a charming seaside setting, this restaurant offers fresh catches prepared with a creative twist, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Breeze ‘n Bites
Enjoy a breezy and cozy atmosphere at Breeze n Bites, a waterfront restaurant at Den Laman Condominiums. Whether you choose to dine for lunch, brunch, or dinner, you will be delighted by the variety and quality of the dishes, from flatbreads and burgers to tuna and lobster.
At Sea
At Sea is a seaside dining oasis that offers a leisurely, relaxed experience and some of the island’s most creative seafood, steak, and vegetarian dishes. Chef Jeroen and his wife Tiffany use both locally and globally sourced ingredients to create dishes with a twist.
Beach Bars on Bonaire: Sipping and Relaxing by the Water
Bonaire’s beach bars offer the perfect setting to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the island. From laid-back hangouts to chic lounges, here are some of the best beach bars on Bonaire.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Rum runners
Where the ocean meets the food, the drinks, and the music. Rum Runners is the ultimate beach bar that offers a variety of dishes and drinks for every appetite. You may want a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a mouthwatering dinner. Their international menu has something to please your palate.
Hangout Beach Bar
The ultimate chill spot on the island. Hangout Beach Bar is the place to go if you want to relax and have fun in a laid-back atmosphere. Grab a drink, a snack, or a meal from their varied menu, featuring American and Caribbean classics.
Karels Beach Bar Bonaire
Karel’s Beach Bar is the ideal place to have a drink and a snack in a lively and cozy setting. And the best part? You can enjoy the awesome dock that offers a unique view of the turquoise waters and the sunset.
Beach Clubs: Relaxing and Fun Spots by the Sea
Are you looking for a place to have fun and relax by the sea? Bonaire has some fantastic beach clubs to go to. Here are some of the popular beach clubs in Bonaire that you should try:
BEACH CLUB TIPS
Ocean Oasis Beach Club
Escape to Ocean Oasis Beach Club, an oasis of tranquility and luxury on the southern tip of Bonaire. For the best views of the clear blue sea, book your spot in the restaurant, lounge, or reserve a cabana for a more private and cozy experience.
Sebastian’s Beach
Relax and enjoy the Caribbean sun at Sebastian’s Beach Club, a lounge bar and restaurant with a private pool. The beach club is located at Sorobon Beach. The beach club serves amazing dishes made with fresh products, from breakfast to dinner.
Eden Beach Club (Previously Spice Beach club)
Eden Beach Club is a Caribbean-inspired restaurant and lounge bar located at Eden Beach Resort. A charming place to enjoy bold and artistic dishes, from tapas to seafood, in a torch-lit seaside setting. And if you are lucky, join the best beach parties with DJs and performers from all over the world!
Breakfast and Lunch Spots: Where to Start and Continue Your Day
No matter what you are in the mood for, Bonaire has a breakfast and lunch spot for you. You can enjoy cozy cafés and bakeries, or casual bistros offering a mix of local and international cuisine. Here are some of the best breakfast and lunch spots to try.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Between 2 Buns
Relax and enjoy the best sandwiches and coffee in Bonaire at Between 2 Buns. Whether you crave a fresh croissant, a Big Papa Omelet, or a homemade cheesecake, you’ll find it here. Plus, you’ll love their friendly staff and cozy atmosphere.
Boudoir
Discover the delicious and diverse flavors of Boudoir, the ultimate breakfast and lunch spot in Bonaire. From classic bagels and burgers to Dutch Pancakes and avocado specialties.
Bagel & Bloom
Treat yourself to a delightful all-day dining experience at Bagel & Bloom in Kralendijk. Enjoy their signature bagels, complete breakfasts, and tasty main dishes, all made with fresh and quality ingredients. Plus, you’ll love their beautiful decor and friendly service.
International Delights: Global Culinary Offerings
Bonaire’s international culinary scene is a delightful fusion of flavors from around the world. You’ll find a diverse range of international restaurants, catering from Italian pasta to Asian stir-fries to American burgers. Skilled chefs bring their expertise to the island. This is your invitation to indulge in their delectable global cuisines.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Joe’s Restaurant
Savor the fresh and flavorful seafood and international dishes at Joe’s Restaurant. Located in Kralendijk, this cozy and casual restaurant offers a wide variety of options, from pork schnitzel and duck trio to wahoo ceviche and lobster thermidor. You’ll love their wide range of beers and their warm hospitality.
La Cantina Cerveceria
Experience the best of both worlds at La Cantina Cerveceria, a brewery and restaurant in one. At the front, you’ll find a cozy beer café with an impressive selection of local and imported beers, cocktails, and wines. At the rear, you’ll find a beautiful courtyard where you can enjoy fresh fish, thin crust pizza from their stone oven, and a diverse menu with something for everyone.
Capriccio Ristorante
Indulge in the authentic and exquisite Italian cuisine at Capriccio. This elegant and modern restaurant offers homemade bread and pasta, thin crust pizza, daily fresh caught fish, and delicious tiramisu and grappa. You’ll also love their rewarded wine list and their passion for Italian food and culture.
Entertainment Nights: Where to Dine and Have Fun
Bonaire has a lot to offer for those who like to have fun and enjoy the nightlife. The island has some wonderful restaurants that offer entertainment nights, where you can dine and have fun with games, music, and other activities.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Foodies
Foodies is the place where fun and food meets. Enjoy a lovely lunch by the lake, or spice up your night with pub games, cocktails, live music, and more.
Cuba Compagnie
To experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Cuba, go to Cuba Compagnie. From mouthwatering mojitos and tapas to succulent seafood and meat dishes. Join the fun on Thursday nights for salsa dancing. Or party just in front of Cuba restaurant during the Baila Breeze dance events
Hillside Bar & Restaurant
Hillside is a place to relax, dine, and have fun on Bonaire. This place offers a stunning view of the island and a diverse menu with local and international dishes. Keep an eye on their Facebook page where they announce their regular activities, such as salsa dancing, game nights and live music performances.
Fine Dining Experiences: Indulging in Luxury
For those seeking refined culinary experiences, Bonaire offers a selection of upscale dining establishments. These fine dining restaurants combine exquisite flavors, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance to create memorable evenings. Treat yourself to a gourmet feast prepared by talented chefs, complemented by a curated wine selection and impeccable attention to detail.
RESTAURANT TIPS
CHEFS Bonaire
Immerse yourself in an intimate culinary experience at CHEFS Bonaire. With limited seating, this restaurant offers personalized service and a surprise menu tailored to your preferences. Make sure to reserve wááyy ahead of time to secure your spot.
Zara’s Bonaire
is inspired by Dutch, Caribbean, Asian, and Mediterranean cuisine. Located inside the Antriol Art Centre on Bonaire, Zara’s offers a range of dining options, from a fine dining experience at the Chef’s Table to delicious dishes at the rooftop restaurant.
Captain’s Table
The Captain’s Table is a fine dining restaurant in the center of Kralendijk where seafood is taken to another level. Order several dishes and divide them into several courses, or order multiple dishes and share them together. And if you rather not choose by yourself, then go for the chef’s menu or the full experience menu.
Affordable Eateries: Great Food on a Budget
Exploring Bonaire’s culinary scene doesn’t have to break the bank. The island also boasts numerous affordable eateries where you can enjoy delicious meals without compromising on taste. From food trucks serving local specialties to cozy cafés offering budget-friendly options, these establishments provide excellent value for money while delivering satisfying flavors.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Yhanni’s Arepas
Delight in the flavors of Venezuela at Yhanni’s Arepas. This family-owned eatery specializes in arepas, a popular Venezuelan dish made from corn dough and filled with various savory ingredients. Make sure you check out their Facebook page to see if they are open.
Döner Station Hato
If you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal, go to Döner Station Hato. Here, you can enjoy the famous Kapsalon, a dish of fries, meat, cheese, salad, and sauce, or choose from other delicious options such as wraps, salads, burgers, and more.
Julian’s Cafe & Restaurant
At Julian’s Cafe & Restaurant, you can enjoy a variety of dishes that feature fresh and local seafood, meat, and vegetables. The place is open for lunch and dinner, and offers a great value for your money.
Sweet Indulgences: Coffee and Ice Cream Spots
No culinary journey is complete without indulging in desserts and coffee, and Bonaire has a few delightful establishments that cater to those with a sweet tooth. Among them, Gio’s Gelateria & Caffe and Luciano stand out as must-visit destinations for dessert lovers.
TIPS
Gio’s Gelateria & Caffé
Indulge in the sweetest treats at Gio’s Gelateria & Caffé, the best place for ice cream lovers in Bonaire. Choose from a wide variety of flavors and toppings, or try their creamy milkshakes. Or, enjoy their coffee, bon bons, cakes, and more, in their cozy indoor or outdoor seating.
Luciano Bonaire
Nothing beats a refreshing ice cream on a sunny day, and Luciano Bonaire knows how to make it perfect. With one branche in Kralendijk and one in Hato, you can easily access their amazing selection of flavors and toppings.
Number 10
For a coffee and cake break like no other, head to Number Ten Bonaire. With a variety of coffee and cake options, from mocha to cheesecake, and a stunning instagrammable place, you’ll be amazed by their ambiance and quality.
Casual Dining on Bonaire: Enjoying Food and Fun at Food Trucks
Bonaire has a rich and diverse culinary scene, with many food trucks offering delicious and affordable dishes. You can find food trucks serving everything from burgers and wraps to tacos and tamales, often with fresh and local ingredients.
Below a list of popular food trucks, but these are not the only ones! There are many more hidden gems waiting to be discovered, dotted all over the island on surprising spots. You never know when you might stumble upon a delicious and fun food truck, so keep your eyes open and your appetite ready.
FOOD TRUCK TIPS
Kite City Food Truck
If you love fish, you’ll love Kite City Food Truck. They have been offering the most delicious fish dishes on Te amo beach since 2014. Not into eating fish? Try their other dishes, from burgers and salads to tacos and platters, and their meat and veggie options.
King Kong Burger
At King Kong Burger food truck, you’ll enjoy the juiciest and tastiest burgers on Bonaire. All made with fresh and local ingredients and creative toppings. Customize your own burger with a variety of options.
Cactus Blue
Cactus Blue is the food truck that saves the reef. At Cactus Blue, you can enjoy the most delicious and eco-friendly burgers and wraps on the island, made with fresh and local lion fish. Lion fish are an invasive species that threaten the coral reef, but Cactus Blue turns them into a tasty treat that you’ll love.
Rocking and Dining: Great Food & Tunes
If you are looking for a lively and fun night out, Bonaire has plenty of options for you. Here are a few restaurants that offer dinner nights with live music. Enjoy the best of both worlds: delicious food and great tunes.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Eddy’s restaurant
Eddy’s offers a delicious menu that combines French, Colombian, and Venezuelan cuisine, with a Caribbean flair. And on Tuesdays and Fridays, you can enjoy their live music nights. Make a reservation if you want to have a good time.
Trocedero
Trocedero is a family-friendly and relaxed place that offers a delicious menu and a lively entertainment. On some nights, you can have fun with their karaoke, DJ’s, and live music, for a festive mood. Check their Facebook page for the latest news and events.
Oscar Lighthouse and the Blue Note bar
If you love seafood and live music, you’ll love Oscar Lighthouse. Here, you can find Pisces – Bonaire Fish House, the ultimate seafood restaurant that showcases the local fish and flavors. At Blue Note, you can enjoy the finest cocktails, food and the liveliest music, featuring talented local performers.
Shared dining allows you to taste a variety of dishes, flavors, and cuisines, while enjoying the company of others. Bonaire has several restaurants that specialize in shared dining, where you can order a variety of plates and platters to share with your table.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Mezze
Mezze Restaurant offers a variety of small plates combining fresh and local ingredients and the aromatic herbs and spices of the Middle East. Choose from dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, and more, or let the chef surprise you with a selection of his favorites.
Bon Tapa
Share the joy of tapas at Bon Tapa, where you can find a variety of mouthwatering dishes for every taste. Whether you prefer fish, meat, or vegetarian options, you’ll be delighted by the fresh and local ingredients and the chef’s signature creations.
Club Boulevard
Are you in the mood for platters and bites to share? Or starters and main courses to savor? Or maybe drinks and music to enjoy? Club Boulevard has it all. With fresh and local ingredients, friendly and professional service, and a stunning view of the Caribbean Sea, this is the perfect place to have lunch or dinner on Bonaire.
Local Cuisine: Discovering Authentic Flavors
To truly immerse yourself in Bonaire’s dining culture, consider visiting the local favorites cherished by residents. These beloved establishments have won the hearts of locals with their warm hospitality and mouthwatering dishes. Engage in conversations with locals, seek their recommendations, and try the restaurants they frequent for an authentic local experience.
RESTAURANT TIPS
Posada Para Mira
Discover the authentic taste of Bonairean cuisine at Posada Para Mira. This hidden gem offers traditional dishes cooked with love and passion, providing an authentic culinary experience. During the weekend you might even be treated with some live music.
Maiky Snack
is an off-the-beaten-path gem, serving authentic Bonairean dishes like goat stew and fresh barracuda. Despite its modest setting, it’s celebrated for its delicious, traditional cuisine and warm service. Frequented by locals, it’s a must-visit for a genuine culinary experience.
Rose-Inn
Nestled in the heart of Bonaire, Rose-Inn in Rincon is a delightful culinary destination. Offering a fusion of local and international flavors, every dish is a testament to the island’s rich culinary heritage. Its cozy and relaxed atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for both locals and visitors.
SOME MUST-TRY DISHES INCLUDE:
Iguana Stew: A traditional Bonairean delicacy, the iguana stew offers a rich and savory experience that showcases the island’s local ingredients and cooking techniques.
Sopi Piska: This flavorful local fish soup combines fresh catch with aromatic herbs and spices, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish.
Keshi Yena: A true Bonairean delight, keshi yena features hollowed-out Edam cheese stuffed with seasoned meat, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Cactus Liquor: Bonaire is the only island where you can taste cactus liquor. Don’t miss the chance to savor this unique and refreshing beverage during your stay.
Food Festivals and Events: Celebrating Bonaire's Culinary Culture
Throughout the year, Bonaire hosts various food festivals and events that celebrate the island’s culinary culture. From seafood extravaganzas to street food fairs, these festivals offer opportunities to indulge in a wide range of flavors.
Check out this Events Calendar to join the festivities and sample diverse cuisines. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of Bonaire, just try it. Among these events, the annual Bonaire Rum Week, Bonaire Culinair and Taste of Bonaire festivals stand out.
Exploring Beyond Bonaire: Nearby Islands and Dining Excursions
If you’re seeking to expand your culinary exploration beyond Bonaire, the island serves as a gateway to nearby culinary destinations.
Embark on dining excursions to neighboring islands and experience the unique flavors of the Caribbean. From Aruba’s bustling food scene to Curaçao’s fusion of European and Caribbean cuisines, there’s a world of gastronomic adventures waiting to be discovered.
Dining on Bonaire: a Journey of Flavors and Experiences
Bonaire’s restaurants offer a delightful range of culinary experiences, showcasing the island’s diverse flavors and influences. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a traveler, or a local, exploring Bonaire’s vibrant dining scene is a must. From savoring authentic local dishes to indulging in international delights, dining on Bonaire is a journey of flavors and experiences.
So, come hungry and ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds satisfied and your memories filled with delectable delights!
