Are You A Foodie Heading To The Bahamas? These Are The Best Restaurants In Nassau!

When it comes to vacations, few places do it better than The Bahamas. A tropical archipelago of over 700 islands and cays, this destination offers the quintessential island getaway. A vacation on these shores is complete with beaches of powdery white sands framed by shimmery blues and numerous islands to explore.

Aside from the beaches, one of the things The Bahamas is known and loved for is its unique cuisine. The bold, rich flavors and even some of the simple and delicious options set this island’s food scene apart. This makes it one of the best island destinations for diverse culinary experiences.

As there’s just so many options to choose from when it comes to dining in The Bahamas, we went ahead and compiled a list of the best restaurants in Nassau, the capital. Located on New Providence Island, you'll be able to find everything from roadside shacks with delicious treats to five-star fine dining establishments with world-class chefs. So, without further ado, these are the best restaurants to explore in Nassau!

Good to know: It takes around 15 minutes to get from New Providence Island to Paradise Island by ferry or about 2 minutes to travel by car over the bridge connecting the two islands. During your all-inclusive vacation, you'll be able to find some great restaurants on Paradise Island as well.

17 of the best restaurants in Nassau, Bahamas

1. The New Duff Restaurant & Bar

Best for: A casual lunch under USD$15 in downtown Nassau.

Duff is a Bahamian dessert made with steamed flour pudding and its one of the items you should try while in The Bahamas. When made well, duff can be light, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious. It is typically made with guava inside, but at The New Duff Restaurant and Bar in Nassau, you can request fillings of caramelized coconut, fried banana, piña colada and more. In fact, when you get there, you’ll have the freedom to choose your filling and how much sauce you’d like, and you’ll be well on your way to a flavor-packed lunch.

Stuffed bao buns are a great option for lunch with a savory twist. Buns are available with jerk chicken, ginger pork, roasted vegetables, tuna salad and curry mutton filling. The New Duff is near Junkanoo Beach in downtown Nassau. If you’re spending the day at the beach, this is the ideal spot for a quick lunch. This restaurant is also a cool breakfast spot if you happen to be doing some early morning sightseeing in the West Bay Street area.

2. Meze Grill

Best for: Mediterranean favorites and tropical views.

For a distinctive Mediterranean experience, head to the Meze Grill near Cable Beach in Nassau. With a range of dishes including tempura crab, grilled snapper, and more, this restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Sandals Royal Bahamian and also near the Sandyport Beach Resort.

The Meze Grill offers a variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options in a lively and upbeat atmosphere. The drink and wine menus are extensive and the ambiance, inviting. Guests with dietary restrictions will appreciate the fact that this restaurant offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The service at Meze Grill is also highly-rated.

Some of the favorites on the menu at Meze Grill include the truffle mushroom pasta, tomahawk pork chop, or the roasted half-Greek chicken. The Asian-inspired sushi rolls are also a crowd pleaser. Reservations are recommended for Meze Grill as this restaurant can get crowded, especially during peak season.

3. Sapodilla Estate

Best for: Exceptional service and feel-good vibes.

Blending tropical charm with modern elegance, Sapodilla Estate can be found in the Sandyport area in Nassau, near the beach and nightlife zone. The food at Sapodilla Estate has been described as exceptional, and the service, impeccable. Sapodilla’s menu features host of captivating dishes that put islands flavors on display in a memorable way.

While dining here it can be hard to decide what to get as there’s just so much to choose from. The Steak Diane, Rack of Lamb, and table-side Caesar salad are among the visitor favorites. You can also order authentically Caribbean treats like mango sorbet, island spiced grouper, and Eleuthera salad from the Taste of the Islands tasting menu.

On some days, you can listen to beautiful live music as you dine at Sapodilla Estate. On others, the atmosphere and piano music will be ideal for setting the tone even extending the feel-good vibes to the outdoor seating area. Overall, this is one of those Nassau dining spots you

4. Cocoplum Bistro & Bar

Best for: Delicious island cuisine made with passion.

French and Mediterranean cuisine with a tropical twist is what Cocoplum Bistro & Bar is all about. And, surrounded by greenery, not too far from the beach, this restaurant is a good choice if you just want to chill and enjoy the best of Nassau. Cocoplum Bistro & Bar is located west of Nassau on the corner of Old Fort Bay and Lyford Cay. It is known and loved for its bistro atmosphere, friendliness, and the quality of the island-accented dishes.

French Chef Cathelin created the menu here and put a lot of heart and love into it. And because of this, all the dishes really hit the mark. Traditional French ingredients are sourced locally for their dishes to come together, and there are lots of island-inspired dishes** to choose from. This includes the watermelon salad, grilled octopus, half-rack of lamb, and the vegan coconut chickpea curry.

You can dine at Cocoplum Bistro and Bar on pretty much any day of the week. The restaurant serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, offers live music from a band on weekends, and provides good service and outdoor seating too.

Expert tip: Want a vacation that includes amazing food, entertainment, and fun? A romantic getaway at one of the all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean may be just what you need!

5. Café Matisse

Best for: Diverse flavors and charming island ambiance.

Café Matisse is in the heart of Nassau and serves dinner Tuesday through Saturday. At one point new surfaced that this place would be closing down, but today, they’re still in operation. Wonderful news for fans of their always improving menu which includes soups and pasta, meat, seafood dishes, pizza and more.

Café Matisse is one of Nassau's most popular restaurants, and if you choose to dine here, you will likely be captivated by the stunning interior design and charming ambiance. Popular menu items include Burrata, Risotto alla Zucca, and Triangoli al Vitello. If you choose to dine here while in The Bahamas, expect five-star service, indoor and outdoor seating, attentive service, and a wonderful option for your next Bahamian date night!

Good to know: Café Matisse is close to some popular shops and nightlife in downtown Nassau. Reservations are recommended for dining.

6. Island Brothers & C

Best for: A quick bite or a more formal dining experience.

Foodies with simple but refined tastes are welcome to indulge in a dining experience at the Island Brothers & C restaurant in Nassau. Quality and service are at the heart of their operations, and here you can enjoy French cuisine in the heart of New Providence. Tartare de Boeuf, La Salade Lyonnaise, and La Bavette Wagyu are popular dishes among visitors.

We mentioned service before, but we’ll reiterate here that this is among the best you’ll find in Nassau. You’ll know you’ve arrived at the right place just as soon as you’re seated and have a look at the menu. Whatever you’re in the mood for, there will be a menu option to suit you, even if you’re gluten-free or vegetarian. The cocktail menu at Island Brothers features just the right mix of French wine and Caribbean-inspired cocktails, which could be the highlight of your visit.

7. Cleo Mediterraneo

Best for: Dinner with friends or a date night off-resort.

The food and ambiance are among the things that stand out about Cleo Mediterraneo in the Baha Mar resort in Nassau. This restaurant is promoted as “not just a restaurant, but a destination”. Dining at Cleo Mediterraneo is a good option if you’re looking for Mediterranean-inspired cuisine for either breakfast or dinner, perhaps both! Just as soon as you’re seated at this restaurant, you’ll receive a menu with a host of options including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. The bar menu includes a variety of drinks and cocktails.

While you might find it difficult to make a selection as there’s just so much to choose from, there are some menu selections based on guest reviews that you may want to consider. These include Moroccan Lamb, Lobster Tagine, and Chilean Sea Bass. Cleo Mediterraneo has a chic and welcoming atmosphere and it can be a good option for dinner with friends or a date night if you’re looking for an off-property restaurant to visit during your all-inclusive vacation.
Reservations are recommended for dining at Cleo Mediterraneo.

8. Athena Cafe & Bar

Best for: A quick bite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Greek and Bahamian food are what Athena Cafe & Bar in Nassau is all about. This restaurant has a casual ambiance with a beautiful outdoor seating area. It’s located just off East Bay Street in the heart of the city. You likely won’t have a hard time finding it as it’s just steps from the cruise ship terminal. Once you get there, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the best options for fusion cuisine in The Bahamas.

At Athena Café, the menu includes traditional island options like conch fritters and well-known Greek dishes like Falafel gyros. For breakfast, you can try the Coconut French Toast or the Greek Omelet. For lunch, you’ll have options including salads, gyros, soups, burgers, seafood and other small and large plates and spreads. For dinner, diners love the Athenian Style Grouper and the Roast Lamb. Indoor and outdoor dining is available from Monday to Saturday. Delivery and take-out are vacation possibilities too. If you choose to dine in-house, ask about their wine and cocktail menu.

9. Fi’lia

Best for: Italian fare with enticing wine and cocktail pairings.

The Baha Mar Beach Resort has a few good options for dining and Fi’lia is one of them. This is a delicious Italian restaurant where you’ll find a calm and welcoming ambiance and a menu that includes traditional Italian flavors and handmade pasta.

Fi’lia is only open for dinner but there’s quite a few options available for diners including pizza, pasta, seafood, and steaks. Some guest favorites at this restaurant include Lobster Tagliolini, Grilled Branzino, and Bresaola & Burrata Pizza. You can ask for the wine list or cocktail list while you’re there to find a drink to pair with your meal. The drinks menu is extensive and includes classic Italian cocktails. Service is usually good here as well. Reservations are recommended as seating is limited.

10. Kyma Seafood Grill

Best for: Delicious Greek and Latin fusion fare.

Quick, delicious, and described by some as “surprisingly amazing”, Kyma Seafood Grill is known for its Greek and Latin fusion fare. This restaurant has an upscale feel and an extensive menu, which makes it all the more exciting if you find it randomly while making your way around Nassau. If you love Mediterranean cuisine, this can be a worthwhile option to explore during your time in The Bahamas. Kyma Seafood Grill is open from Monday to Sunday, and it’s located at Windsor Field Road, Nassau.

There’s lots of options on the menu here under USD$20 including gyros, Greek meat balls, wings, zucchini tempura, and more. Seafood dishes are available too. The cool Bahamian vibes combined with the thoughtful food and drink menus make this a location worth visiting in The Bahamas, especially for live music and brunch on the weekends.

Expert tip: When it comes to dining in The Bahamas, knowing what to order is just as important as knowing where to go. Here’s some of the best food at all-inclusive resorts in The Bahamas.

11. Katsuya

Best for: An elevated dining experience featuring Japanese cuisine.

Katsuya is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Nassau. This restaurant is in Nassau’s SLS Baha Mar beach resort, just off West Bay Street. This spot is best if you want delicious Japanese food and an elevated dining experience. One of the things that stands out here is that the chef blends traditional Japanese elements with new American flavors. Drinks-wise, whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll likely find it at this restaurant.

If you’re not sure what to get at this spot, you might enjoy Katsuya’s Lobster Tacos, Salmon on Cedar, Beef Short Ribs or Toro Toro Rolls. You can also try the Katsuya Omakase tasting menu, which features dishes selected by the chef. Katsuya is only open for dinner and reservations are recommended.

12. Graycliff Restaurant

Best for: Elegant dining, wine tastings, and attentive service.

The Graycliff Restaurant is located at the Graycliff Hotel and it is open to both hotel guests and non-hotel guests. At this restaurant, you’ll be able to reserve a table for an elegant meal, stop by for afternoon tea, or book a wine tasting with one of their sommeliers. Some of the popular dishes here include Crispy Duck, Filet Mignon, and Dover Sole. At Graycliff, in addition to regular seating, there are also some exclusive dining rooms you can book for up to 18 guests. There’s a strictly enforced dress code here which means no shorts, tank tops, or t-shirts.

The Graycliff Restaurant has a classy, old-school feel to it. This restaurant is ideal for a meal “away from the glitter of Nassau.” The Graycliff also offers cigar-making and chocolate-making classes. Reservations are recommended especially in the peak season.

13. Mogano by Giorgio Locatelli

Best for: A dinner date with warm, island ambiance.

Nassau has some of the best restaurants in The Bahamas. One of these is Mogano, a popular Italian restaurant located at the Island House resort. This restaurant is well-known for its authentic Italian cuisine and stunning ocean views. Mogano’s menu includes Italian favorites like pasta, freshly grilled seafood, and unique pizza options, like the smoked salmon pizza.

Spacious seating and a warm ambience are among the reasons to consider dining here. If you feel like having some drinks after your meal at Mogano, you can go to the nearby Bar Shima. You can not only order a cocktail but also sample some delectable fusion cuisine at Bar Shima. As Mogano and Bar Shima are both located in the same resort, you can visit both in a single day for completely different dining experiences.

Insider tip: For a dining experience that’s tropical and sophisticated, make dinner plans at Butch’s Island Chophouse during your vacation. With a combination of familiar flavors and island favorites, this restaurant is the go-to in The Bahamas for high-quality surf & turf. Whether you’re dining on grain-fed Midwestern beef or the finest fish and fresh seafood, Butch’s Island Chophouse is sure to impress. Our favorite dishes here include the Steak Diane, Snapper Veracruz, Dungeness Crab Cake, and the Willy Wonka Brûlée.

This restaurant is only available to guests of Sandals Royal Bahamian. The best part? Butch’s exceptional food and drinks are included (and unlimited) as part of Sandals’ all-inclusive vacation package.

14. Dune by Jean-Georges Vongerichten

Best for: Breakfast, lunch or dinner with a view.

Dune takes you a little way from Nassau, and to the nearby Paradise Island. At this restaurant, you can enjoy French-Asian cuisine with Bahamian influences. Dune is right on the beach and part of The Ocean Club Resort. Despite being one of the more expensive restaurant options in The Bahamas, a visit to Dune can be worth it as you can expect delicious food, five-star service, and creative cocktails.

To get to Dune, you’ll need to take a ferry from Nassau to Paradise Island (about 15 minutes). You can go there any day of the week for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with some of the most popular options on the menu being the Roasted Nassau Grouper, Bahamian Lobster Flatbread, and Roasted Organic Chicken. Making reservations is a good idea if you want to dine here as things can get busy, especially around the high season. Sunday brunch at Dune is always a good time.

15. Seafire Steakhouse

Best for: Classic American cuisine with an island twist.

All it will take to get to the Seafire Steakhouse is a quick ferry or boat ride from Nassau. This restaurant is located at the Atlantis Resort on Paradise Island. The ferry from Nassau to Paradise Islands takes around 15 minutes. Once you get to Seafire Steakhouse, you’ll get to enjoy traditional American cuisine with a noticeable island twist.

On the menu at Seafire Restaurant, you’ll find steak paired with classic sides like creamed spinach or blue cheese iceberg wedges. You might also want to try the shellfish tower for two, which is one of the top-rated dishes at this restaurant. As a starter, consider the traditional Bahamian lobster tail or seasonal oysters, jumbo prawns, seasonal crab, or salmon tartar.

Seafire Restaurant is family-friendly and the dress code here is smart casual. Reservations are recommended. Other bars and lounges are available near Seafire as well.

16. Arawak Cay Fish Fry

Best for:Casual and delicious seafood and Bahamian cuisine.

Looking for something to do in Nassau that includes a delicious meal on a budget and a few drinks? Head to Arawak Cay on West Bay Street in Downton Nassau. You can get delicious fish meals for around USD$15 per person at this location. Conch salad, scorched conch, and other traditional Bahamian fare are available for purchase and these are made to order by the vendors.

At Arawak Cay, your fresh-off-the-grill catches will be seasoned with local flair. You can even have conch fritters, peas and rice, grouper fingers, and more, paired with something cold like a Bahamian Kalik or Sands beer. Enjoy these tasty island dishes while grooving to island tunes as the sun sets on yet another remarkable day in the islands. Both locals and visitors enjoy fish fry events at Arawak Cay.

17. Sushi Rokkan

Best for: Freshly made sushi, seafood and cocktails.

There is no better place to enjoy fresh and delicious seafood than on an island in The Bahamas. Most of your seafood favorites will be easy to find in this territory, but if you’re looking for delicious sushi, you may have to look a little harder. Sushi Rokkan fills that void by serving some of the best sushi in The Bahamas.

If you visit this restaurant in Nassau during your Bahamian vacation, you can expect to find a variety of fresh fish options, cocktails, and Asian-inspired entrées. Takeout and dine-in services are available, so you can choose whichever option best suits your mood. If you love sushi, you’ll appreciate the wide variety of dishes available here, as well as the award-winning saké list. Pair your meal with a tropical cocktail for a memorable Bahamian twist.

Sushi Rokkan is located at the Old Fort Bay Town Center. This restaurant is on the casual side, and it’s open from Monday to Saturday.

Bahamian food favorites to try during your Nassau vacation

Great food really takes a vacation to another level, and there are many different dishes to try in The Bahamas. Once you get to this gorgeous Caribbean isle, your main task will be learning how to identify them. And that's precisely where we come in. Here's some signature Bahamas food and drinks and details on what you can expect in terms of ingredients and flavors:

• Fried Plantains: When done correctly, these will have the right consistency; not too firm, and slightly sweet. Fried plantains go well with almost anything, but they’re most commonly found on barbecue plates, alongside jerked meats, or alongside a regular meal.

• Conch Salad: Diced conch meat mixed with chopped bell peppers, onion, tomato, salt, and pepper. Everything is tossed in a lime, lemon, and orange juice marinade. The marinade slightly ‘cooks’ the conch, but otherwise, your conch salad will be mostly raw, similar to a ceviche.

• Johnny Bread/Johnny Cake: A sweet baked treat that’s a mix between cake and bread and is usually served in block shapes or slices. Johnny cake is typically eaten as a breakfast side or as a snack. The dish is made with milk, shortening, sugar, flour, and baking powder, and pairs well with butter, jam, soups, and stews.

• Grits: Inspired by the American south, grits are a popular breakfast item in The Bahamas. This is typically served hot, buttered, and paired with a protein-rich side, such as tuna salad, corned beef, or eggs. Grits are made from coarse cornmeal that has been topped with butter.

• Guava Duff: A spongy cake with diced guava filling that is coated with a guava rum sauce before it’s served. Best for a sweet treat at breakfast or dessert. This cake is spiraled like a pinwheel and it is best served hot!

Good to know: In Nassau and looking for a food tour? Visit Arawak Cay to take in the Fish Fry experience. At Arawak Cay, you’ll find a strip of restaurants ranging from fast-casual to sit-down. Restaurants in this area are known for serving authentic Bahamian food at a reasonable cost. There are also other fish fry events on the other Bahamian islands.

The best restaurants in Nassau: Experience the foodie capital of The Bahamas!

At Sandals Royal Bahamian in The Bahamas, sushi and art are the perfect pairing!

Nassau shines brightly in terms of culture, local cuisine, and nightlife. This is one of the best places to learn about The Bahamas’ food culture. If you’re headed to these islands and not sure where to stay to experience the best food, the all-inclusive resorts in the Bahamas are a great option. Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau has 10 top-rated restaurants and 8 bars that you can enjoy during your stay. With so many incredible options, it's not hard to get a real taste of The Bahamas!

Aside from the food, there’s lots to love about vacationing in The Bahamas. With an all-inclusive getaway in these islands, you can forget about all else and focus on enjoying your vacation. Hopefully, this includes spending as much time as possible on this territory’s beautiful beaches of both glistening white and pink-hued sands.

So, here’s to enjoying the finest food in the islands and making some amazing food-filled memories in Nassau!

Picture: The all-inclusive Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau, The Bahamas.