Local Cuisine: A Taste of the Virgin Islands

Embark on a culinary journey through St. Thomas’s vibrant food scene, where Caribbean flavors meet colonial influences to create a unique gastronomic experience. The island’s cuisine tells a story of cultural fusion, combining African, European, and indigenous cooking traditions that have evolved over centuries.

Start your culinary adventure with the national dish of the US Virgin Islands: fish and fungi. Fresh-caught fish, often snapper or grouper, is served alongside fungi, a savory cornmeal and okra mixture that pays homage to the island’s African heritage. Local fishermen bring their daily catch to seaside restaurants, ensuring the freshest possible seafood experience.

The island’s markets burst with tropical fruits and vegetables unique to the Caribbean. Sample sweet soursop, known locally for its health benefits, or try fresh coconut water straight from the fruit. Local vendors at the Charlotte Amalie market offer homemade hot sauces crafted from native peppers, each with its own distinct flavor profile.

Don’t miss the chance to try kallaloo, a hearty stew made with local greens, seafood, and spices. This traditional dish exemplifies the resourcefulness of island cooking, combining available ingredients into something truly memorable. Pair it with johnny cakes, fried bread that’s perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.

For dessert, discover local treats like sweet potato pudding and coconut tarts, often made from recipes passed down through generations. The island’s rum cake, infused with locally produced spirits, offers a taste of the Caribbean’s rich rum-making tradition.

Local food trucks and roadside stands offer some of the most authentic dining experiences, where you’ll find dishes like curry goat, pates (local empanadas), and grilled spiny lobster served with traditional sides like plantains and rice and peas.