Sailing to Bermuda: 8 Essential Dishes You Must Experience

When planning a voyage to Bermuda, the spas, golf courses, and pink sandy shores are just a glimpse of the allure you'll encounter. The island's cuisine is equally captivating, offering fresh flavors straight from the ocean, enhanced with local ingredients. From rum-infused pastries to zesty condiments, Bermuda presents a diverse array of delicacies waiting to be sampled. Here are some culinary highlights to enjoy during your cruise to Bermuda.

1. Ocean-Fresh Fish

In this idyllic island setting, nothing compares to enjoying fresh fish from the nearby waters. Seek out local eateries that showcase the catch of the day for the best selections from the sea. Grouper and wahoo are popular choices. Bonefish Bermuda features the daily catch on its menu at market price, served in true Bermudian style with a rich black rum reduction and topped with toasted almonds and banana.

2. Bermudian Breakfast

The classic Bermudian codfish breakfast was once a daily favorite among locals. While many families now reserve it for Sundays, visitors can still find it served regularly at numerous hotels. This dish typically features boiled or steamed salt codfish, accompanied by either an onion and tomato sauce or a buttery onion sauce. It is served alongside boiled potatoes, a hard-boiled egg, and a banana, with some restaurants also adding avocado to the plate.

3. Spicy Pepper Jelly

Pepper jelly, or pepper jam, is a beloved Bermudian delicacy that can be enjoyed in countless ways. With its perfect balance of spice and sweetness, it delivers a flavor that’s truly unique to the island. Spread it on toast or scones, drizzle it over grilled meats, or use it as a dip for your favorite appetizers. Be sure to try the award-winning pepper jams from the Bermuda Jam Factory during your stay, and consider picking up some from the duty-free shops to take home with you.

4. Fish Chowder

Regarded as the national dish of Bermuda, fish chowder embodies the essence of the island's culinary heritage. Originally made from leftover fish bones, contemporary recipes showcase a more refined flavor profile. Expect a hearty mix of onions, tomatoes, carrots, and celery, complemented by tender pieces of fish and a blend of aromatic spices. The dish is enriched with a splash of black rum and sherry pepper sauce for an extra kick.

For some of the finest fish chowder on the island, visit Henry VIII. This version of the classic soup features Gosling's rum and Outerbridge's sherry peppers. You can order a bowl with your lunch or dinner, or enjoy it as part of one of the restaurant's set menus, which includes a delightful four-course meal featuring local favorites like Bermuda rum cake for a well-rounded culinary experience.

5. Hoppin’ John

Hoppin' John, also known as peas 'n' rice, comes in a variety of forms in Bermuda. Although this dish isn't originally from the island, it has become a local favorite. Legend has it that the recipe arrived with a French prisoner of war in the 18th century. Central to this dish are black-eyed peas and rice, with optional ingredients like tomato, paw paw, ground beef, sausage, bacon, chicken, and Bermuda onion. It’s typically seasoned with thyme and garlic for added flavor.

6. Rum Cake

Rum cake is a decadent buttery dessert that showcases the island's beloved liquor. A well-made rum cake is both moist and airy. While the base flavors can differ from cake to cake, each one is generously soaked in rum, imparting that signature island taste. Numerous bakers offer rum cake, but Horton's is renowned for some of the best on the island. If you want to delve deeper into Bermuda's famous rums, consider booking the Gosling's Sunset Rum Cruise during your visit.

7. Fried Fish Sandwich

For a quick and casual bite, you can't miss the fried fish sandwich while in Bermuda. This dish is a favorite among tourists who find themselves hungry after exploring the streets. Traditionally, the fried fish sandwich is served on whole-wheat toast or raisin bread, generously topped with tartar sauce. Common additions include hot sauce, lettuce, tomato, and onion.

Art Mel's Spicy Dicy is often hailed as the best place for a fried fish sandwich on the island. This generous dish is perfect for sharing, featuring snapper fried to a light, non-greasy finish in soybean oil.

8. Rum Swizzle