St. Barth’s in summer is filled with people who dress like runway models and eat like it’s their last meal. And honestly? We can’t blame them. St. Barths is a foodie haven. The dining scene is outrageously good. So let’s skip the sightseeing and get to what really matters: where to eat, what to order, and how soon you should make that reservation (now sounds about right).
Nikki Beach
Located on Saint-Jean Beach, Nikki Beach is less of a restaurant and more of a scene with sushi. Originally from St. Tropez, this beach club is a magnet for celebs and anyone who loves to party in style. The grilled lobster and ‘Nikki Style’ chicken satay are standouts. This place fills up fast, so book ahead unless you’re okay with watching the party from the sand.
Nao Beach
Front-row to St-Jean Bay, Nao Beach serves up bold flavors and even bolder cocktails. Chefs Kawaï and Delage bring a sharp touch to dishes that lean Japanese with a Mediterranean wink. Don’t miss their Osaka Sour cocktail and Tuna Wasabi, and try to get a beachfront seat before the DJ starts spinning.
Gyp Sea Beach
Tucked into Pelican Beach, Gyp Sea brings the boho vibes with a BBQ twist. Most of the menu hits the grill. We recommend trying their barbecue meats and the coconut banana fritters. Reservations are also recommended, especially for lunch.
Shellona Beach Club
Shellona sits pretty on Shell Beach, just steps from the Gustavia port. Run by Groupe Annie Famose (they also own the Shellona in St. Tropez), it pairs Mediterranean dishes with Greek flair, thanks to Chef Yiannis Kioroglou. Try the grilled octopus or the whole fish with tzatziki — and thank us later. Sunset is prime time here, so we suggest you get that dinner reservation locked in early.
Toiny Beach Club
Over on the quieter east side of the island, Toiny Beach Club is on a beach known more for waves than crowds. It’s part of the ultra-luxe Hotel Le Toiny. Their menu leans towards the Mediterranean, with a focus on fresh seafood and grilled classics like Black Angus Cheese Burger. The vibe is fresh grilled fish, flavorful salads, and chilled wine. Not a bad vibe at all.
Le Cabane
At Cheval Blanc St-Barth on Flamands Beach, Le Cabane is the more relaxed sibling to La Case. It’s famous for its light menu and relaxed setting. You can revisit classics like Ceasar salad and the Flamands burger (one of the island’s best, rumor has it). Or, you can order fresh pasta and a glass of something cold. We recommend reservations here too, especially for beachfront tables.
La Case
Also at Cheval Blanc, La Case is the fine dining wing, where Chef Jean Imbert works his French magic with ingredients from the Caribbean. Try the sand-crusted branzino or wagyu beef with pomme anna. Definitely book ahead, especially for the weekend brunch.
Atelier Joël Robuchon
The late great Robuchon’s legacy lives on in Gustavia. Atelier Joël Robuchon brings the culinary legend’s signature French finesse to the island. The mashed potatoes are practically a rite of passage. Chef Stephane Coco definitely knows what he’s doing. Go for the tasting menu if you want to impress your taste buds (and your dinner date).
Bonito
Hovering over Gustavia, Bonito is one part panoramic view, one part genius cooking by Chef Laurent Cantineaux. Here, French technique is artfully combined with Pan-American inspiration. Don’t leave without trying the creative ceviche selection and charcoal grilled meats. It’s stylish, it’s scenic, and you’ll need a reservation to enjoy both.
La Petite Plage
Down by the harbor, La Petite Plage is as close to a party as a restaurant can get while still serving really good fish. It brings the St. Tropez energy to St. Barths, complete with sand-beneath-your-feet vibes, and a lively evening crowd. The cuisine is Mediterranean, with a focus on fresh seafood and French dishes, like the Salmon Tataki with green pepper and rice vinegar. Pasta? Yes. Grilled fish? Absolutely. Your dignity after the second cocktail? No promises.
Bagatelle
Bagatelle in Gustavia delivers classic French food in a setting that leans hard into fabulous. It tends to get packed, so definitely plan ahead. Chefs Jordan Gressiez and Rocco Seminara have created their signature menu. When you’re there, try the truffle roasted chicken or yellowfin tuna tartare — trust us.
Sella
One of the newer spots, Sella offers Israeli-Mediterranean dishes by Michelin starred Chef Assaf Granit. Highlights include the moabet with scallops and chicken mesachen. As with most of these, make your reservation at least a day in advance, because it fills up fast.
Tamarin
For a change of pace, head inland to Tamarin. It’s tranquil, a little romantic, and full of French-influenced dishes made with local ingredients. Chef Jérôme Lebeau creates his dishes inspired by his travels around the world. Fresh local tiradito and smoked veal chop are the stars. This place is recommended if you’d like to have your dinner with a greener view than a blue one. (Dinner under the trees? Yes, please.)
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FAQs
Q. What are the working hours for La Cabane?
A. La Cabane is open for lunch daily from 12 pm to 6pm.
Q. Is Le Casa a part of Cheval Blanc?
A. Yes, Le Casa is a part of Cheval Blanc.
Q. Is Tamarin on a beach?
A. No, Tamarin is not on a beach. but an inland restaurant in St. Barth’s.