Anguillian Cuisine

Anguilla has a food scene that punches far above its size, celebrated across the Caribbean, and built above all on the freshness of the sea. The island's fishing heritage means superb seafood is central: the famed local spiny lobster and crayfish, grilled fresh, along with red snapper, mahi-mahi and conch. Traditional dishes include saltfish, pigeon peas and rice, johnny cakes and hearty stews, reflecting African and Caribbean roots. What sets Anguilla apart is the range, from rustic, beloved beach shacks grilling the day's catch over open coals to a remarkable cluster of world-class, upscale restaurants, making the island a genuine dining destination.

What's there

• The spiny lobster and crayfish - the famed grilled local shellfish.
• The fresh fish - the day's catch, grilled at beach shacks.
• The beach shacks - the rustic, beloved grills.
• The fine dining - the cluster of world-class restaurants.

When to go

Year-round; the island's beach shacks and local eateries grill fresh seafood daily, while its many fine restaurants offer world-class dining, and both are highlights. Fresh grilled lobster and crayfish are the stars, best enjoyed with toes in the sand at a beach bar or at one of the celebrated upscale spots, reflecting Anguilla's remarkable range.

What to expect

Anguilla's dining, especially its many upscale restaurants, is premium-priced in keeping with the island's exclusive character, though the rustic beach shacks offer superb fresh seafood at friendlier prices and are, for many, the real delight. As a celebrated food destination with a remarkable range, from beloved beach-shack grills to world-class restaurants, all built on superb fresh seafood and famed local lobster, though, Anguilla is a genuine highlight for food lovers.

Nearby

The beach shacks and restaurants across the island and the cays are the places to eat.