11 Delicious Dishes to Enjoy in Tortola

Visiting new destinations is all about immersing yourself in the local culture, soaking up the atmosphere, and indulging in the cuisine. Tortola is a favorite stop for cruise travelers, thanks to its fantastic food and unique dining experiences. While you're there, consider swimming with dolphins or taking a boat trip to Jost Van Dyke Island, where you can dive to explore a shipwreck. As you delve into the excitement of Tortola, you'll inevitably work up an appetite for some mouthwatering dishes. Luckily, you'll discover a range of exotic fruits, surprising flavors, and original Tortola specialties that have made their way into American cuisine.

For those seeking a culinary adventure and wondering what local delicacies to sample in Tortola, here are 11 must-try dishes during your stay.

1. Roti

Influenced by Indian cuisine, Tortola’s Roti is a delicious savory pastry filled with spiced or curried meats wrapped in a light, fluffy dough. It’s an ideal option for a quick bite while you explore the island or enjoy some local shopping.

chicken roti from Tortola served in a petite basket

2. Pates

Pates (pronounced patties) are similar to Roti, featuring spiced meats or vegetables encased in flatbread and deep-fried. Their pocket-like design makes them easy to carry. If you're planning a scenic drive around the island, be sure to grab a few for your group to enjoy on the go.

3. Soursop

This spiky fruit is abundant on Tortola, readily available in grocery stores and from street vendors. Many describe its flavor as a delightful blend of pineapple and banana, featuring citrusy notes and a creamy texture. Soursop is also a popular choice for juice on the island. While savoring the exquisite Tortola cuisine at dinner, check the menu to see if a soursop drink is available to complement your meal.

a collection of spiky green fruits known as soursop from Tortola

4. Fungi

For a taste of local home cooking, be sure to order Fungi (pronounced Fun-jee) if you see it on the menu. This delightful side dish is crafted from salted cornmeal dough, often enhanced with okra. These dumplings can be enjoyed either as a side or on their own.

5. Sorrel

One of the joys of traveling is discovering locally grown herbs and spices. Sorrel is a herb that flourishes here and is readily available in local grocery stores. With a flavor reminiscent of kiwifruit, it’s frequently used in soups and other dishes. You may even find Sorrel Tea served in local restaurants.

sorrel herb from Tortola used to brew delicious iced tea and traditional tea

6. Callaloo

A must-try dish during your cruise to Tortola is Callaloo, a local stew. Featuring ingredients such as taro or dasheen leaves, okra, meats or fish, onions, and spices, its flavor may remind you of a Louisiana gumbo.

7. Johnny Cake

Perfect for snacking while you explore and shop in Tortola, Johnny Cake is a tasty baked or fried dough typically made with cornmeal. If you're planning a shore excursion during your visit, this could be the ideal local treat to enjoy during your adventures.

four Johnny Cakes frying in a pot in Tortola

8. Conch

Conch (pronounced conk) is a staple in Bahamian and Caribbean cuisine, thanks to its abundance in the ocean waters surrounding the islands. You’ll find conch chowder and conch fritters featured on menus throughout Tortola. This mollusk is best when tenderized, ensuring you enjoy its distinctive flavor while local chefs prepare it to perfection for your meal.

9. Jerk

For a taste of local barbecue, don’t miss out on the jerk flavors that Tortola has to offer. The smoky and spicy profiles can be found on chicken, fish, and other meats, giving you a true taste of the island's barbecue delights.

jerk chicken from Tortola being grilled over an open flame

10. Salt Fish

For a taste of local seafood, try a dish featuring salt fish. Typically made from Cod caught off the shores of Tortola, this dried and salted fish offers a dense, boneless option. It's commonly used as a flavorful ingredient in chowders and stews.

11. Rice and Beans

If you enjoy southern-style rice and beans, you’ll appreciate the Caribbean roots of this classic dish. Often served as a side, you may also encounter variations like rice and peas or simply a seasoned rice dish. Pair it with local main courses for a meal you won't forget.