Savor Local Delights - Eastern Caribbean Street Eats

Johnny Cakes in St. Thomas

St. Thomas boasts a variety of uniquely named dishes. Fancy some goat water, kallaloo, or dumb bread? However, it's the ever-popular johnny cakes that are commonly enjoyed as a quick snack. These fried flatbreads can be eaten solo or paired with chicken and other substantial meals.

Roti in Tortola

Tortola showcases a vibrant blend of cultures: European, African, East Indian, and indigenous influences. The East Indians brought the roti to the island, and each culture has added its unique flair to this beloved street food. Roti is a crepe-like bread, fried and stuffed with spicy curry fillings, including beef, chicken, conch, whelk, goat, or lobster. This tasty snack is typically accompanied by a side of mango.

Conch Fritters in the Bahamas

In the Bahamas, conch fritters are a must-try. These deep-fried morsels are crafted from cornmeal and conch, a popular mollusk enjoyed throughout the Caribbean. For an extra kick, cayenne, onion, bell peppers, celery, and garlic are often added. Fritters can be savored alone or as a side to a more filling dish. Don’t forget the dipping sauce, a Bahamian blend of ketchup, mayonnaise, and spices.

Chicharrones in Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is renowned for its deep-fried delights. Bacalaito features thinly sliced codfish, fried to perfection for a crispy, salty snack. Pionono consists of meat wrapped in sweet plantains and deep-fried. Tostones are crispy green plantain chips typically paired with meat. Yet, if there’s one street food that defines the island, it’s chicharrones—salty, deep-fried chunks of pork fat, often known as pork rinds in the States. Healthy? Not exactly, but delicious!

Barbecue in St. Maarten

The French side of St. Maarten is hailed as the culinary heart of the Caribbean, offering French cuisine that rivals the finest Parisian bistros. However, it's at the casual barbecue spots called lolos where locals gather. Here, you can indulge in barbecued chicken, ribs, and fish while your toes dig into the sand. Many visitors can't stop raving about the ribs, marinated in vinegar and lime juice, then finished with a tantalizing dry rub.

Ducana in Antigua

Antigua is known for its ducana, a sweet potato tamale blended with coconut and sometimes pumpkin, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled. Seasoned with cinnamon, sugar, ginger, nutmeg, and vanilla, ducanas are commonly enjoyed as a sweet side dish to salt fish.

Salt Fish in St. Kitts

Salt fish is a staple across the Caribbean, but in St. Kitts, it is celebrated as the national dish. Historically, salt fish was essential for ships sailing the Caribbean during the age of exploration and piracy. This dish features cod that is salted and dried, frequently served at roadside stands and beach shacks. St. Kitts' iconic dish includes salt fish cooked with bell peppers, tomatoes, and garlic, accompanied by spicy plantains with ginger, onion, and chilis, plus coconut dumplings and seasoned breadfruit. Savoring this classic meal means you’re truly living like a local.