10 Great Restaurants in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Duggan’s Reef has long been considered a leading dining institution in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The restaurant first opened in 1983 and have undergone several evolutions over the years. However, its incredible cuisine and views along Teague Bay ensure it remains a St. Croix favorite.

Frequently visited by international celebrities and government figures, there's a good chance you'll encounter a famous person during your visit. The restaurant's seafood dishes always hit the spot, with delicious entrées like crispy calamari and lobster spring rolls. For mains, try the shrimp scampi pasta and pork spareribs.

De’Coal Pot is found on the north-eastern corner of St Thomas, within close proximity to many of the island’s best beaches. Dining at this restaurant puts you within a 20-minute walk of Sapphire Beach, Pelican Beach and Lindquist Beach.

Here, you can enjoy local dishes such as goat roti, creole chicken and baby back ribs. Portions are relatively hefty compared to most restaurants on the island, ensuring everyone heads home feeling completely satisfied. If you want to experience authentic Caribbean cuisine during your vacation, De’Coal Pot should definitely be high on your list.

Morgan’s Mango presents diners with the best of Caribbean and South American flavors. You can find the restaurant in St John, just 350 meters northeast of the Cruz Bay Ferry Dock. It has an extensive menu of Argentinian, Creole, and Cuban dishes, all jam-packed with unique flavors.

Try the creamy seafood paella, osso buco (veal shanks braised with vegetables, broth, and white wine), and Cajun shrimp. Morgan’s Mango is a favorite among locals and tourists since 1992. It has managed to maintain a long tradition of outstanding service and tropical vibe.

1864 The Restaurant is tucked away in the upmarket surroundings of Mongoose Junction, a St. John neighbourhood known for local fashion boutiques, craft beer bars and a collection of serene beaches. With this fascinating open-air setting surrounded by lush plant life, it’s a great spot to dine on freshly caught seafood.

The dinner menu includes a range of time-tested dishes served with a modern flair, including seafood risotto, fresh oysters, and pan-seared yellowfish tuna. Visit at lunch to enjoy 1864 The Restaurant’s sushi menu, which consists of Japanese-inspired nigiri and sashimi rolls.

The Caribbean Fish Market is on the eastern tip of St Thomas. It features a breezy coastal setting that sees waves breaking on the nearby shoreline. Alongside a Caribbean-inspired menu that teems with great seafood and steak dishes, this relaxed restaurant offers one of the best dining experiences in the area.

Highlights at the Caribbean Fish Market include shrimp penne pasta and apple bacon stuffed pork chops. There’s even tasty surf & turf for those looking to experience much-loved coastal cuisine. With a great selection of wine and cocktails, this beachfront restaurant won’t disappoint.

La Tapa is renowned for modern Mediterranean dishes, served within an idyllic beachside location. Situated in the center of Cruz Bay, this popular spot has been led by owner-chef Alex Ewald for over 20 years, making it one of the go-to dining experiences in St John.

You’ll be presented with a range of seasonal Spanish flavors that are constantly evolving. La Tapa’s gazpacho is an excellent starter, while the sauteed Portugese octopus and signature paella make for satisfying main meals. Reserve a table along the street for nice views of the bay area. 

Savant offers an eclectic menu that appeals to adventurous diners in St Croix. With Mexican, Thai, and Caribbean flavors fused together to create several fascinating dishes, this intimate restaurant attracts a crowd looking to sample these unique combinations. The fish and lobster are bought fresh daily, while a distinctive farm-to-table ethos underpins the entire operation.

There are certainly a lot of highlights on Savant’s menu to choose from. Must-tries include chargrilled baby calamari, goat cheese stuffed filet mignon, and bacon-wrapped double pork chop. Book a table at the old-world courtyard to experience a tropical island dining experience.

Gladys’ Cafe is in the historic center of Charlotte Amalie, so it’s often frequented by bustling crowds of locals and tourists. This local institution is one of the most beloved in St. Thomas, so don’t miss your chance to try its authentic Caribbean-American cuisine.

There’s a variety of traditional island dishes to enjoy, including jerk mahi-mahi and curry chicken roti alongside a wealth of daily specials. With Glady’s Cafe only open for breakfast and lunch, your vacation in the U.S. Virgin Islands won’t be complete without at least a meal at this lowkey yet celebrated restaurant.

Ekaete Pink Corner is a casual restaurant specializing in West Indian cuisine. Located in Coral Bay, it’s a great pitstop for those on a day trip to popular destinations along St John’s east coast like Hansen Bay Beach and Salt Pond Beach.

The jerk pork and BBQ ribs are among Ekaete Pink Corner’s most popular dishes. The restaurant is also known for serving homemade ice cream and smoothies – its mango and banana combo is very refreshing on a hot summer’s day.

Extra Virgin Bistro is where you can discover how locally grown and sourced products deliver a top-notch dining experience in St John. The restaurant is best known for its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, served in a laidback atmosphere.

Although the menu changes with the seasons, every dish is immaculately plated. Much of the seafood served is caught daily by local fishermen in the surrounding water, while herbs are sourced from Extra Virgin Bistro’s onsite garden. Food-wise, choose from classic appetizers like fresh burrata and mushroom pappardelle, before diving into mains like smoked beef short rib and cioppino. There’s also an extensive wine and cocktail list to complete your meal.