Seven Must-Try Dishes in Antigua

If you’re like many, the mere mention of Antigua brings to mind a Caribbean paradise filled with clear blue skies, pristine white beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. While this captures the essence of what you’ll find in Antigua, the island holds much more beneath its surface.

Deeply rooted in tradition and boasting a vibrant and engaging culture, Antigua offers more than just stunning natural scenery; it’s a place that captivates both your imagination and your heart. This perfect blend of beauty and ambiance is beautifully represented in its exquisite cuisine, rich history, and the natural charm that sets it apart.

As you soak in the sights and sounds at this popular destination, explore the rainforest canopy, or simply stroll along the sandy shores, be sure to indulge in these dishes during your trip to Antigua. They’re bound to satisfy your appetite, brighten your mood, and make your visit to Antigua unforgettable.

1. Conch

The exquisite conch is truly more than just an attractive shell. Famous for its beautifully spiraled exterior, which has been featured in numerous pirate tales and nautical adventures, the conch is a versatile shellfish that stands out from other seafood options. Antigua adds its unique touch to conch, creating a meal that’s truly unforgettable.

Harvested from the island’s own warm waters, the conch in Antigua is delightfully sweet, with a texture that falls somewhere between clams and calamari. Thanks to its local abundance, you can enjoy conch in various forms, including chowders, curries, ceviches, or deep-fried fritters. However, on a warm day in Antigua, nothing beats the light and refreshing taste of conch ceviche paired with your favorite cool drink.

2. Ducana

If you’re pondering what to try in Antigua and seek a dish that showcases the island's rich array of native ingredients, ducana is your answer. Similar to tamales in preparation and texture, ducana combines grated sweet potatoes and coconut, seasoned with an assortment of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed to perfection for a savory delight.

Typically enjoyed as a side dish, ducana offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds, making it a perfect accompaniment to the seafood specialties served all over Antigua. Be prepared for the aromatic experience when the banana leaf is unwrapped; the heavenly scent will fill the air, and you might find yourself momentarily lightheaded with anticipation.

3. Fungee and Pepperpot

While pepperpot is a popular dish throughout the Caribbean, we assure you that Antigua’s rendition is one of a kind. In fact, fungee and pepperpot is recognized as Antigua’s national dish and can be found across the island. At first glance, the pairing of fungee—a cornmeal dish made with okra—and pepperpot—a rich stew—may seem unusual, but together they create a tropical harmony.

Consider fungee and pepperpot as Antigua’s equivalent to Irish bangers and mash or, more classically, a hearty beef stew served with a generous helping of mashed potatoes. The pepperpot, loaded with a variety of island spices, meats, and hearty vegetables, combined with the mild, polenta-like texture of fungee, presents a delightful blend of flavors and textures, ideal for a fantastic lunch by the breezy shores of Antigua.

4. Souse

If you're packing your cruise itinerary full of adventures and exploring the many activities in Antigua, you'll need a light, refreshing meal for those warm, busy days. Fortunately, souse is the perfect choice for such a hectic schedule and is easily accessible to help revive your energy.

This chilled, light dish has qualities of both soup and ceviche and is usually made with pickled pork, although you can also find chicken versions in some eateries. Souse features a clear, light broth infused with an array of peppers, onions, lime, and a touch of spices to provide a refreshing kick, making it an excellent option for cooling down on a hot day. If you find yourself shopping in Antigua and in need of a quick energy boost, souse might just be the remedy you’re looking for.

5. Saltfish

Often enjoyed alongside ducana or fungee, saltfish is a beloved staple in Antiguan cuisine that tantalizes your taste buds with a blend of salty, savory, and sweet flavors. Typically made from cod caught in local waters, the fish is cured in salt for 24 hours before being rinsed and boiled with peppers, onions, and spices. The result is a dish that is both simple and incredibly satisfying, showcasing the beauty of straightforward cooking. However, don’t mistake simplicity for ease; it requires a skilled hand to make this dish truly shine.

6. Local Lagers

Naturally, no meal is complete without something to wash it down. Antigua boasts several local lager breweries that add their unique twist to microbrewing. With recipes passed down through generations, Antiguan lagers are typically light, refreshingly crisp, and perfect for enjoying on a sunny day at the beach.

7. Tamarind Balls

As you relax on the beach with a local lager in hand and craving a quick snack, tamarind balls are a must-try Antiguan treat. These sweet and tangy, peppery, and chewy traditional bites are made from the flesh of tamarind fruit mixed with brown sugar, formed into snack-sized balls, and rolled in granulated sugar for an extra burst of flavor.

To truly embrace the essence of your cruise vacation, make sure to indulge in Antigua’s culinary delights while surrounded by the sights and sounds of this Caribbean paradise. Both your taste buds and your memories will be grateful.

Please note that activities on board, shore excursions, and dining options may differ based on the ship and your chosen destination.