Before visiting Curacao for the first time, I went on a YouTube binge to get a lay of the (is)land. Unfortunately, in a video that loosely touched on the best restaurants in Curacao, a decidedly unimpressed content creator made a bold claim that would send most travelers packing: “Curacao is not a foodie destination.”
::Cue record scratch::
Umm, that’s certainly not the confidence-boosting statement you want to hear after booking your first international trip in 1.5 years!
But given that I was itching for a getaway, flights were booked, and I’d even managed to score a spectacular seafront stay at an up-and-coming Curacao diving resort, I could only think one thing: challenge accepted.
Well, after eating my way through this delicious island along with my husband, I’ve decided to put together this food-focused guide to Curacao to prove her wrong!
So if you’re wondering where to eat in Curacao, what Curaçaoan food even is, and whether the iguana-eating rumors are real (gag), wonder no more! I’m forking over all the juicy details about the best restaurants in Curacao, from casual beachside joints to fine-dining establishments.
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What Is the Cuisine of Curacao?
Curacao is widely-known to offer an eclectic mix of Dutch- and Caribbean-inspired dishes, but the menu doesn’t end there! Actually, one of my favorite Curacao facts is that the island takes influences from a variety of other cuisines, including Spanish, African, Portuguese, and Jewish, just to name a few.
Some of the most popular dishes in Curacao include bitterballen (Dutch meatballs made from a breaded and fried beef stew), keshi yena (cheese ball stuffed with spiced meat), funchi (corn-meal mush), and fresh seafood. (And yes, even iguana. And no, I did not try it.)
How Much Does Food Cost in Curacao?
Although meal prices can vary as with anywhere else, generally speaking, food in Curacao is relatively inexpensive. On average, diners spend approximately ANG91 ($50.50) per day on food. Breakfast tends to be the cheapest meal of the day.
However, while there are plenty of low-key dining options for budget-conscious travelers, there are definitely some higher-end restaurants mixed in. You can expect to pay upwards of $100 for a seafood meal at a fine dining establishment.
What Is Dining Like in Curacao?
Dining in Curacao varies pretty widely depending on where you’re staying on the island. For instance, northern Curacao is much more remote, meaning you may drive for miles before hitting a restaurant. The northern end of the island isn’t the sort of place where you’d wander in search of something to eat. This is often the reason why many people book an all-inclusive Curacao resort on the northern side.
Central and southern Curacao, on the other hand, are much more populated and include many more restaurant options. Generally speaking, where there are main beaches, there are food options to follow.
Regardless of where you eat on the island, dining is a pretty low-key, laidback experience, even at more upscale establishments. Everyone in Curacao is on island time, and that’s largely reflected in the slow pace of each dining experience.
Best Restaurants in Curacao for Breakfast
1. BijBlauw
Trendy, Laid-Back Seaside Gem with Killer Cuisine & Mediterranean Vibes
When it comes to the best places to eat in Curacao, it doesn’t get much better than BijBlauw. Although I’d read some rave reviews about it before our trip, it still managed to exceed our expectations!
In addition to its fabulous restaurant, BijBlauw is also a boutique hotel, so you may want to consider it if you’re looking to stay directly in Willemstad.
That said, I don’t personally recommend staying in Willemstad. It’s a bit of a “strange” city, for lack of a better word. To see what I mean, have a look at the best areas to stay in Curacaoand then you can be the judge.
Alternatively, for the true “island experience,” I suggest having a look at these awesome resorts in Curacao, instead.
In any case, since BijBlauw is home to one of the many restaurants in Willemstad, I wasn’t expecting much of a view, but I was happily proved wrong! When you first approach the restaurant, you’ll be greeted by vibrant facades that are oh-so-characteristic of Willemstad.
Admittedly, the front entranceway is a bit deceptive, as it completely obfuscates the stellar view that’s waiting around back. From the bright buildings, you’ll make your way down a colorful, yet otherwise unassuming narrow side street. Keep an eye out for this teeny street; it can be easy to miss.
Once you’ve reached the back where the restaurant is located, you’ll be greeted with this gorgeous sea view. I’m not joking when I say that this restaurant is right on the water!
In fact, if you’re feeling bold enough to grab a seaside seat, you can enjoy a refreshing ocean spray along with your meal (or get totally soaked, depending on the wind)!
My husband and I got major Greek island vibes here, which is saying a lot, considering we’re Greece-obsessed. And, as is the European way, I recommend starting your morning with an Instagram-worthy coffee/espresso/cappuccino.
Although BijBlauw offers “all-day oceanfront dining,” I personally think it’s in a league of its own as one of the best restaurants in Curacao for breakfast.I had the “Banana Oh Nana” pancakes and they were 10/10.
My husband had the “BijBlauw Breakfast” which comes with the works – a flaky croissant, avocado smash, eggs benedict, and yogurt with granola – and gobbled it up.
You can also have a peek at their breakfast menu for yourself.
While I’m definitely team breakfast at BijBlauw, you really can’t go wrong with any meal here. In fact, we loved the food and the vibe so much that we came back for a wonderful lunch here on our final day!
Spoiler Alert: It was just as delicious.
What to Know Before You Go:
BijBlauw is open from Monday to Saturday from 8AM until 10PM. The restaurant is closed on Sunday.
Dining hours are as follows:
*BijBlauw is pretty stringent in regards to the timing for breakfast. When we returned to eat for the second time, I wanted to order breakfast again. However, since it was a few minutes or so past the usual breakfast time, I was told that they were only serving lunch.
Bottom Line: If breakfast is a top priority, definitely arrive before 11:30 AM.
Breakfast reservations aren’t necessary; we walked in both times and were sat without a wait.
How to Get Here:
BijBlauw is located at Kaya Papa Wilson Godett 82-84 in Willemstad, Curacao.
2. Karaker
Breezy Beachfront Restaurant of Coral Estate Luxury Resort
What better way to enjoy your morning breakfast than with your toes in the sand and the ocean breeze blowing through your hair? That’s exactly what you’ll get at Karakter, one of the best restaurants in Curacao on the northern end of the island.
P.S. The northern half of the island also happens to be one of my favorite areas to stay in Curacao!
During our time in Curacao, we had the pleasure of staying at (and collaborating with) Coral Estate Luxury Resort, which is home to Karakter as well as three other yummy eateries. (I’ve also included a dinner recommendation from Coral Estate later in this guide!)
For an invigorating start to the day with a tasty beachside breakfast, Karakter is the place to be. At this laidback beach lounge, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise with palm trees, Caribbean birds, and the sound of waves gently lapping the shore.
Karakter offers everything from combination breakfast platters, to smoked salmon, to yogurt with fruit, to pumpkin pancakes on their menu. I desperately wanted to try the pumpkin pancakes, but unfortunately, they were already sold out. These flapjack favorites literally sell like hotcakes, so if you want to order them, I suggest arriving close to opening around 8AM.
Instead, I enjoyed the “French start,” which includes a croissant with homemade marmalade, fresh fruit, and a boiled egg.
Don’t forget to get yourself a refreshing tropical drink as well! I ordered the “King of Vitamins,” which is a fruity blend of fresh pineapple, mango, and orange.
What to Know Before You Go:
Karakter offers breakfast, lunch, tapas & bites, and dinner at the following times:
- Breakfast: 8AM – 11:30PM
- Lunch: 11:30 PM – 5PM
- Tapas & Bites: 11:30AM – 6PM
- Dinner: 6PM – 9PM
How to Get Here:
Karakter is part of Coral Estate Luxury Resort, located at Rif St. Marie, Willibrordus in Curacao.
3. Iguana Café
Willemstad Hotspot with Refreshing Frozen Coffee
If you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up from the hot Caribbean sun while in Willemstad, stop off for a tasty morning beverage at Iguana Café.
My husband and I stopped here for breakfast after a sweaty morning in Willemstad, as the positioning of the café is ideal. Located just off of the Queen Emma Bridge, Iguana Café provides the perfect setting for people-watching by the water.
Plus, if you’re lucky, you may even see the pontoon bridge swing open to let boats pass! Essentially, you can enjoy a “free” show where the price of admission is a simple breakfast.
Speaking of breakfast, I ordered two eggs with ham, cheese, and a croissant with marmalade. Frankly, the food was decent, but nothing to write home about…
…So why am I including the Iguana Café in a compilation of the best restaurants in Curacao if the food isn’t anything crazy special, you ask?
For one very critical reason – the coffee drinks!
Despite average food, I’ll always fondly remember the Iguana Café as the restaurant that introduced me to the “Chunky Monkey.” With just one sip of this frozen delight, my life was forever changed. (And by that I mean my husband now makes these for me at home!)
If you’re wondering what the heck a “Chunky Monkey” is, you’re not alone – I’d never heard of it, either.
Just imagine a frozen coffee and a banana had a baby. Oh, and add some chocolate syrup and top it off with whipped cream. Mmmm, I’m salivating right now just writing about it. So, so good.
So…is Iguana Café ultimately worth it? Here’s my two cents:
If you only have one morning to spend in Willemstad, BijBlauw is the clear breakfast champion. But, I would suggest hitting Iguana Café either before or after BijBlauw to enjoy a frozen coffee and the unrivaled bridge view.
What to Know Before You Go:
Iguana Café is open daily from 10AM – 11PM.
How to Get Here:
Iguana Café is located at Handelskade, Willemstad in Curaçao. You’ll find it just to the right of the bridge if you’re entering from the Punda neighborhood.
Best Restaurants in Curacao for Lunch
4. Blue Bay Beach Bar & Restaurant
Relaxed Beach Bar with the Ultimate Island Vibes
Similar to our repeat experience at BijBlauw, Blue Bay Beach Bar & Restaurant was another restaurant so nice that we visited twice!
If I had to describe this restaurant in two words, I’d say: Island vibes.
This is the sort of place where you can let your hair down after a relaxing beach day. Honestly, I never wanted to leave. Blue Bay Beach Bar will forever be etched in my Caribbean memory bank as one of the happiest moments during our Curacao adventures. Plus, not only is the beach bar one of my favorite eateries on the island, but Blue Bay is one of my favorite beaches of Curacao as well!
It’s hard to put my finger on it, but this place just feels good. I’d liken it to being on the set of a Caribbean film.
First off, you have the coziness and shaded comfort of being underneath a giant tiki umbrella, yet you’re still outside enjoying the breeze and the beach life.
Then there’s the wonderful Blue Bay Beach itself, which has such a relaxing atmosphere.
Although it’s definitely a popular beach, it never felt oppressively crowded or loud.
The restaurant also has some great music to accompany the varied menu, which is always a plus.
I ordered a delicious personal pizza and it really hit the spot.
As I mentioned, my husband and I dug this beach bar so much that we returned a day or so later and ate on the sandy section (directly on the beach).
PRO TIP: While the beach is also an attractive setting, I highly recommend snagging a seat under the tiki umbrella if you can. I much preferred our first experience under the umbrella because it was much shadier. You may feel as though you’re baking in the direct sunlight on the beach!
What to Know Before You Go:
Blue Bay Beach Bar & Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is open from 8AM – 10PM.
We were able to walk-in for lunch without reservations, but you’ll probably want to book in advance if you’re coming for dinner.
How to Get Here:
Blue Bay Beach Bar & Restaurant is located at Landhuis Blaauw z/n, Willemstad in Curacao.
5. Pirate Bay Curacao Beach Club & Restaurant
Family-Friendly, Pirate-Themed Restaurant on Piscadera Bay
A pirate-themed seafood restaurant with life-sized pirate mannequins hanging from the rafters? Arr, matey!
While Pirate Bay Curacao Beach Club & Restaurant may seem a bit cheesy to some, this child-masquerading-as-an-adult found it delightful!
Regardless of whether this restaurant is your style or not, it’s definitely a hit with the kiddos, so it’s a great spot to go as a family.
That said, the staff at Pirate Bay are certainly no strangers to the world of adult drinks, so if you’re looking to kick back with a Caribbean cocktail, this place is sure to fit the bill. Plus, if sitting in the venue itself isn’t your speed, you can always opt for a seat on the beach, instead!
As for the food, we appreciated the wide variety on the menu. I ordered sliders and was definitely not disappointed.
What to Know Before You Go:
Pirate Bay Curacao Beach Club & Restaurant is open from 8AM – 10PM daily.
How to Get Here:
Pirate Bay Curacao Beach Club & Restaurant is located along Piscadera Bay at Piscaderaweg, Willemstad in Curacao.
Best Restaurants in Curacao for Dinner
6. Fort Nassau
Unforgettable Former-Fort-Turned-Restaurant with Superb Food & Stellar Views
By far, my top recommendation for dinner in Curacao is Fort Nassau. This former-fort-turned-restaurant is truly unlike any other venue I’ve ever been to. Of all the best restaurants in Curacao, this is one you cannot miss.
Everything about this restaurant feels historic, from the dramatic front entranceway to the canyons surrounding it.
FUN FACT: Once a genuine 18th-century fort, Fort Nassau was originally built back in 1797 to defend Curacao from enemy attacks.
The most amazing thing about dining at Fort Nassau – besides the unbelievable view over the island – is the feeling that you’re part of the history that gave life to this amazing place.
In the main seating area, you’ll be surrounded by canyons with a natural “window” to the panoramic landscape, a window that was once a lookout point! You really have to dine here to experience the incredible history for yourself.
PRO TIP: Arrive about 20 minutes or so before your reservation time so that you can check out the incredible views from the top story!
Seriously, don’t leave without uncovering this place in full. The top level is just as cool as the dining area itself, if not more so!
In addition to an unrivaled atmosphere, the food here is superb and service is top-notch. (And no, this post is not sponsored in any way.)
I had the caramelized filet of Norwegian salmon and my husband ordered the grilled tenderloin. *Chef’s kiss*
You can also check out the full menu for yourself.
What to Know Before You Go:
Fort Nassau is open for lunch and dinner at the following times:
- Lunch*: 12PM – 2PM
- Dinner & Bar Service**: 6PM – 11PM
*Lunch is served from Monday to Friday, but not on the weekends.
**Dinner is served daily and you’ll need to make a reservation.
I strongly recommend coming for dinner vs. lunch, as you’ll have the added bonus of a spectacular sunset as your backdrop!
Although the restaurant refers to itself as offering “casual fine dining,” it has a definitive air of sophistication to it. I recommend dressing smartly (no sneakers, shorts, baseball caps, etc.).
How to Get Here:
Fort Nassau is located at Fort Nassauweg, Willemstad in Curacao.
7. Landhuis Klein Santa Martha
Authentic Curacaoan Cuisine with a Homey Touch
Similar to BijBlauw, Landhuis Klein Santa Martha is a boutique hotel with one of the best restaurants in Curacao.
Since we ate here late at night, I wasn’t able to photograph the facade. Thankfully, I found a photo via their Instagram page, so you can see the beautiful property for yourself.
Of all the Curacao restaurants we dined at, this one felt the homiest for a combination of reasons:
- The hospitality here was fantastic. We actually arrived a few minutes before the kitchen was closing without realizing it, but the friendly server went out of his way to accommodate us.
- The property is quite small, so you really feel like an exclusive house guest.
- We were greeted by several stray dogs who kept us company while we ate. We were even tempted to take one total sweetie pie home with us! (In case you weren’t already aware, it’s quite commonplace to see strays in Curacao; they’re practically everywhere.)
The dinner was delicious and we were even given a complimentary appetizer of a tasty, savory soup. I ordered shrimp alfredo. (While it’s not listed on the menu currently, they do have chicken alfredo.)
My husband had the chicken saltimbocca.
I also highly recommend having a peak in the main lobby when you’re here; it’s such a charming place!
What to Know Before You Go:
Landhuis Klein Santa Martha is open daily from 8AM – 10PM. Dinner orders can be placed until 9PM.
How to Get Here:
Landhuis Klein Santa Martha is located at Soto, Willemstad in Curacao.
8. Koraal Rooftop Terrace
Trendy Tiki-Bar-Meets-Restaurant of Coral Estate Luxury Resort
Another fab restaurant of Coral Estate Luxury Resort, Koraal is a rooftop terrace with tasty food and beautiful ocean views.
Did I mention there’s also a pool?
My husband and I came for dinner one evening during our stay. To be honest, I didn’t have the highest expectations considering I was “only” ordering pulled pork nachos, but wow! They really hit the spot and far surpassed my expectations.
My husband ordered the daily special, which was also very good.
What to Know Before You Go:
Koraal is open daily from 10AM – 10PM.
During the daytime, you can enjoy cocktails, natural fruit drinks, and individual/shareable plates by the pool. If you opt to sit by the pool, a $12 fee (nafl 20.00) will be added to your bill. Otherwise, entrance to the rooftop terrace is free.
In the evening, you can enjoy “elevated bar food” from the menu along the ocean-view terrace or the palapa restaurant.
How to Get Here:
Koraal Curacao is part of Coral Estate Luxury Resort, located at located at Rif St. Marie, Willibrordus in Curacao.
9. Zanzibar Beach & Restaurant Curacao
Cozy Beach Bar/Restaurant Decked Out in East African Style
If I had to recommend just one place for cocktails after dark, Zanzibar would be it. This awesome beach bar/restaurant has some super fun animal-print décor that’s inspired by East Africa.
Without exaggeration, I enjoyed the best piña colada of my life here!
In addition to whipping up a mean Caribbean cocktail, Zanzibar is also known for delicious stone-oven pizza.
Sadly, I don’t have a picture of mine to share with you, but I ordered the “Orient” pizza, which I highly recommend. (Think “supreme,” but swap sausage/meatball for ham, salami, and bacon).
Also, let my lack of a photo serve as testament to the fact that the pizza was so delicious that I gobbled it right up!
What to Know Before You Go:
Zanzibar is really accommodating in terms of their hours; they’re open from 8AM – 12AM daily.
How to Get Here:
Zanzibar is located at Kaya Damasco, Jan Thiel in Willemstad, Curacao.
10. Kome
Hip, Eco-Friendly Restaurant Serving Modern American Cuisine with a Twist
While we unfortunately didn’t make it to Kome on this first trip, I’ve heard nothing but fabulous things about it.
Kome is a modern American eatery inspired by global cuisines and local ingredients with an emphasis on sustainable, eco-friendly practices.
In fact, the restaurant is the first of its kind on the island to replace plastic straws and single-use water bottles with greener alternatives.
FUN FACT: The name “Kome” means “eat” in Papiamentu, which is considered the official language of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao).
You can check out their varied dinner menu here, which offers everything from chicken and waffles to braised lamb shank.
What to Know Before You Go:
Kome is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. Restaurant hours are from 12PM – 10PM. In addition, Kome serves brunch from 11 AM until 3PM on Saturdays.
Both indoor service and terrace seating are available.
Kome is closed on Sunday & Monday.
How to Get Here:
Kome is located at 6 Johan van Walbeeckplein, Willemstad in Curacao.
Now that we’ve reached the end of my picks for the best restaurants in Curacao, I hope your mouth is watering!
While the island may not meet the technical standards of a “foodie” destination, there’s certainly plenty of delicious cuisine to be had here!
Have you been to this fascinating island yet? If not, which of these places to eat in Curacao takes the cake for you? Let me know in the comments below!
Hungry for more Curacao content? Check out my other island guides:
- 12 Awesome Curacao Diving Resorts for an Epic Caribbean Escape
- 15 Best Beaches of Curacao: Hot Spots to Hidden Gems
- 25 Awesome Things to Do in Curacao
- 10 Fun Things to Do in Jan Thiel, Curacao’s Lively Beach Neighborhood
