15 Best Restaurants in Aruba: My My Savory Guide for Every Budget
Welcome to my blog post on the best restaurants in Aruba. If you are new here, welcome! As someone who has spent over two decades traveling solo across nearly 50 countries, 49 U.S. states, and 6 continents, I have grown to appreciate each and every destination that I visit. And of course, Aruba is no different. When I was finally able to visit Aruba, which had been on my destination list for a while, I couldn’t believe how incredibly beautiful the island was.
From the soft white sand to the unbelievable blue/green water, and the amazing people, I knew this was an island that I would never get tired of visiting. In addition to the incredible scenery and all of the amazing things to see and do, Aruba has some incredible food. In this guide, I will be diving into the best restaurants in Aruba, from great date night restaurants, to budget-friendly local spots, that will hit the spot every time. Now, let’s dive in!
Introduction: Restaurants in Aruba
As you may know, Aruba is very famous for their beautiful iconic beaches and incredible resorts, but what you may not know is that Aruba has some of the best, and most affordable food in all of the Caribbean. From fine dining to amazing beach-side restaurants, and everything in between, I will be diving into all of the best restaurants in Aruba, so that you can have the ultimate dining experience during your visit.
Now, let’s get into all of the best restaurants in Aruba that you absolutely need to add your itinerary for your next visit.
Fine Dining in Aruba
1. Infini: Eagle Beach
If you are celebrating something special, like an anniversary or honeymoon, and want a unique tasting menu dining experience, that is next level, then you will absolutely want to plan ahead and make a reservation at Infini, located in Eagle Beach.
This restaurant is romantic, intimate, and the food that is served is literally a work of art. The way the chef prepares each course, and how the local flavors and ingredients mix, is like nothing I have ever tasted or seen.
Reservations here are a must and it is a place that will completely elevate your Aruba dining experience. Seating is very limited here, so plan ahead, make a reservation, and be ready to experience one of the best restaurants in Aruba!
2. Fred Royal Aruba: Oranjestad
Another great restaurant if you are celebrating a special occasion with Fred Royal, which is in Oranjestad. What I love most about Fred Royal, was not only their amazing food, but it felt cozy and intimate, like I was having dinner in a family member’s home, versus an incredible restaurant.
Each course that is served, is timed perfectly, if you are a wine drinker, they pair wine with each course, and the service here is personalized, and completely elevated.
Fred Royal is one of the best restaurants in Aruba, and with good reasoning. It’s incredibly upscale, without feeling too “snobby”. It’s cozy and intimate but keeping the elevated experience and service. And this is honestly, a great restaurant if you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or looking for an enhanced dining experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
Pro Tip: They are closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
3. Papiamento: Noord
I have to say, dining at Papiamento, is for sure, a one-of-a-kind experience. This restaurant is situated in the courtyard of a house that is over a century old. Between the historic architecture that surrounds you, the flowing trees from the lanterns, and the ocean breeze, the ambience of this dining experience is truly like no other.
The specialty here is their seafood, and it was mouth-watering. If you are celebrating a special occasion or just looking to dine under the stars while in Aruba, then Papiamento is a solid choice, and is, in my opinion, one of the best restaurants in Aruba.
4. Lima Bistro: Oranjestad
If you have ever been to Peru, then you know their food is absolutely amazing. I was so fortunate to discover Lima Bistro, which is basically Peruvian cuisine with a Caribbean flare. If you haven’t been to Peru or Lima Bistro, you need to add both to your list! The food here is fresh seafood with bold flavors and spices, with a pinch of Aruba.
One of the best places to sit if you are dining here is outside with the view of the water, the soft Caribbean ocean breeze and the best sunset views you’ll ever see. If you are craving fresh Peruvian ceviche (which I always am) fresh seafood, and a spectacular dining experience, then Lima Bistro is the restaurant for you!
Aruba Beachfront Restaurants
5. Flying Fishbone: Savaneta
If you like more of the beachfront restaurant vibes, then Flying Fishbone should be at the top of your list. This is a restaurant I recommend to all of my clients planning their trip to Aruba and is dining experience that you will never forget. There is just something incredibly special about a sunset dinner on the beach with fresh seafood being served, the smell of delicious steaks hot off the grill, and glowing sunset as your backdrop.
If you are looking for the perfect sunset dinner in Aruba, then Flying Fishbone is the spot for you. It has a great vibe; they are open earlier if you like an early dinner and have the best views on the island.
Pro Tip: Make your reservations about 30 minutes before sunset so you can get the full experience of daylight and the nighttime to make your dining experience even more spectacular.
6. Barefoot Restaurant: Oranjestad
When I visit Aruba, one of my favorite things to do is point my toes in the sand. So, if you are looking to enjoy your toes in the sand both while at the beach and not, then Barefoot Restaurant is the perfect spot for you. This family-friendly restaurant is very laid-back, but chic, and is the perfect place if you are looking for amazing food, without a large price tag, or without feeling like you are in a stuffy restaurant.
This is one of my favorite places to eat after a long day at the beach, because you can be casual, have your toes in the sand, and enjoy an incredible meal along the water, with incredible views. The menu here is great, the servers are super friendly, and the vibe of the restaurant is exactly what you want on a beach vacation!
7. Pinchos Grill & Bar – Oranjestad
If you are looking for a fun restaurant on the beach that is lively, and just has a great vibe, then Pinchos is the place for you! This restaurant is located on the pier, looking out over the ocean. You literally get to have dinner with not only the sound of the waves in the background, but you also get to hear and feel a nice light breeze and hear the music from the restaurant also playing in the background.
Pinchos Grill & Bar is a great choice for a date night, solo traveler’s dinner, or group dinners. If you love dinner with a view, amazing food, especially seafood, and an amazing vibe, then this is absolutely a restaurant you need to add to your itinerary.
8. Aqua Grill – Palm Beach
If a beachside restaurant with a bit of a more upscale vibe is more your jam, then Aqua Grill may be a great dinner option for you. This is a great place to come to have dinner after a long day at the beach, and a great spot to get a little dressed but, without having to be super fancy. One of my favorite places to sit here is on the outdoor terrace enjoying the views.
This is one of the restaurants in Aruba that consistently delivers great food, great service, and a great night out.
Best Moderately Priced Restaurants in Aruba
9. Gianni’s Ristorante: Palm Beach
Gianni’s Ristorante is one of the most beloved Italian dining spots in Palm Beach, in my opinion, consistently drawing both locals and tourists for its energetic atmosphere and impeccable hospitality. One of my favorite aspects of this restaurant is its famous tableside pasta presentation, which is as delicious as it is fun. This restaurant blends classic Italian traditions with a modern island flair, which I also love.
If you’re planning a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or a night out with friends, Gianni’s offers reliable quality and an elevated dining experience. I like actually coming for lunch (because I hate going to bed after a heavy meal), and taking my leftovers with me for dinner! Two great meals for the price of one, and I don’t feel like I have to overeat for either meal.
Pro Tip: Come hungry, because the generous portions, rich handmade sauces, and the authentic flavors will leave you very full, and feeling like you just left a local restaurant in Italy.
10. Craft: Palm Beach
If you vibe is a trendy hot spot, then Craft is the spot for you. This restaurant is located right in Palm Beach and is perfect for a fun brunch before the beach, or a chic dinner after a long beach day. I personally love their breakfast, and my go-to’s are their delicious coffee and their Huevos Rancheros.
If you come for dinner, expect a fun and lively scene with fun appetizers, delicious burgers and bowls, and just a fun spot to come and enjoy yourself after a day exploring on at the beach. I love every opportunity to sit outside, so for me, the food, the ambiance, and the location, make this one of more favorites for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
11. Taste My Aruba: Oranjestad
Taste My Aruba offers one of the most authentic dining experiences in Oranjestad, thanks to its deeply personal approach to food and hospitality. This charming, family-run restaurant focuses on local ingredients, fresh seafood, and seasonal produce, all prepared with recipes passed down through generations.
The warm, welcoming service is what sets this restaurant apart, and I literally felt as if they were inviting me into their home for dinner. I love that they have a seasonal menu, and it changes depending on what is in season, so regardless of home times you come back in visit, the menu is most likely different every time.
This restaurant is a great a option for travelers looking for sustainable dining, cultural immersion, and traditional Aruban flavors. It’s for sure one of the best restaurants in Aruba for me!
Pro Tip: They are closed Sunday’s so plan your visit accordingly.
Cheap Restaurants in Aruba
12. Zeerover – Savaneta
Zeerover is one of Aruba’s most iconic local dining experiences and is an essential stop for travelers craving fresh, no-frills island seafood. This restaurant is located on a working dock in Savaneta. The vibe of this spot is laid-back and is open-air, serving up fish and shrimp caught the very same day by local fishermen. You can order by the basket, literally watch your seafood hit the fryer, and then relax at picnic tables overlooking the turquoise water.
This is the place to experience authentic Aruban flavors without the resort-area crowds. Prices are incredibly reasonable, portions are generous, and the atmosphere captures the true spirit of the island. Truely one of my favorite spots in Aruba!
Pro Tip: They are closed on Mondays, and you can find them only on Facebook.
13. The West Deck: Oranjestad
The West Deck is a colorful, breezy beachfront restaurant located along Oranjestad’s Linear Park. With its casual atmosphere, oceanfront views, and Caribbean-inspired menu, it’s a grate option for families, couples, and groups who want flavorful food without the high price point.
The menu features island classics like jerk wings, fried fish, plantains, and ceviche, all served in shareable portions that make the experience feel fun and relaxed. Add in friendly service and a lively beachside vibe, and you get one of Oranjestad’s most consistent crowd-pleasers, and one of the best restaurants in Aruba.
14. Dutch Pancake House: Oranjestad
One of the beast spots for breakfast or brunch in Aruba, in my opinion is the Dutch Pancake House. This delicious spot brings in visitors year-round, as they are known for their enormous sweet and savory Dutch pancakes, that are thin, plate-sized creations loaded with toppings like apples, smoked bacon, cheese, or Nutella.
The portions are huge, prices are budget-friendly, and service is fast, making it the perfect choice before a day of exploring Oranjestad or heading out on an excursion. Its location near the marina adds to its charm, and its consistent quality keeps both tourists and locals returning (including me)!
Conclusion: Restaurants in Aruba
When planning your Aruba itinerary, deciding where to dine in Aruba is equally as important as deciding where to stay in Aruba, when to visit, things to do, and what resort to stay at. Luckily, Aruba doesn’t have a shortage of any of these things. Dining in Aruba can be as simple as grabbing lunch at a beachfront restaurant or enjoying dinner under the stars in one the best restaurants in Aruba.
I hope you found this dining guide helpful, and that it has helped you plan your dining experience while in Aruba. All of these incredible restaurants have left a lifetime impression on me, and I hope they will too! If you need help planning your Aruba itinerary, both food and everything else, send me an email. Happy to help you plan your incredible adventure.