Top 10 Must-Try Foods in Dominica

Known as the nature island, Dominica truly embodies its title. When you have the opportunity to explore this port during a Caribbean cruise, you’ll be greeted by stunning landscapes, unspoiled beaches, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and countless spots for hiking and diving. Yet, the culinary delights of Dominica are an experience you absolutely must savor!

Dominica’s culinary scene is a vibrant blend of Caribbean, French, Asian, and African flavors, creating some of the most delicious dishes you’ll ever encounter. Emphasizing fresh, local ingredients, the island’s best restaurants, laid-back cafes, and small food stalls offer a diverse range of island cuisine that will leave you pondering your next meal in Dominica!

Keep these delightful options in mind during your visit to Dominica. Whatever you select, you’re bound to have a memorable experience!

1. Mountain Chicken

Ordering this dish might catch you off guard because it doesn't actually feature any chicken! Instead, mountain chicken refers to a type of giant frog that's indigenous to the region. The legs of this frog are the star of the dish and are celebrated as Dominica’s national delicacy. If you’ve tried frog legs before, you’ll know they taste remarkably similar to chicken. The legs are seasoned and fried, then served alongside local veggies like yams, yucca, pumpkin, and plantains.

2. Manicou

This unique dish from Dominica is a must-try! Manicou is made from opossum, which is either smoked over low heat or cooked in a stew and served with rice. It’s seasoned with a variety of spices, making it a true delight! Many restaurants have their own special spice mixes for smoking the opossum. When served in a stew, it comes loaded with fresh, local vegetables and a kick from scotch bonnet peppers!

3. Agouti

Another delicacy in Dominica, agouti resembles a cross between a squirrel and a guinea pig. This native animal is often prepared similarly to manicou. It’s typically served in a stew enriched with a spicy curry sauce and accompanied by a variety of vegetables, making for a filling and satisfying meal.

4. Callaloo Soup

A signature Creole dish, callaloo soup is a robust bowl brimming with a delightful mix of fresh, local vegetables, particularly the leaves of the callaloo plant, akin to spinach. This nutritious soup is enhanced with an array of herbs and spices, offering a healthful option as well!

5. Chatou Water

Surprisingly, chatou water isn't a fancy bottled spring water — it’s actually octopus soup! This delightful one-pot meal features chopped octopus along with dumplings and a variety of other ingredients, including assorted vegetables. It offers a unique flavor and a rich broth that you’ll truly enjoy.

6. Sancocho

This delicious stew can be made with either beef or chicken and includes local vegetables like cassava, melon, and plantains. Enhanced with a mix of herbs and spices such as cilantro, garlic, cumin, and paprika, this dish is topped with a savory sauce of onions and tomatoes. Once you try it, you’ll see why this hearty and comforting meal is a highlight of Dominica’s culinary offerings!

7. Sorrel Punch

This beloved drink from Dominica is a sweet and invigorating punch. Crafted from the sorrel plant, it’s boiled and blended with an array of spices and a generous amount of ginger, making it a notably healthy option. While it’s especially popular during Christmas, you can find it served year-round in various eateries across Dominica.

8. Codfish Sandwich

Fresh cod is expertly seasoned, then sautéed or fried, and served between two slices of crispy bread. It’s a simple yet incredibly tasty dish, providing a delightful boost of energy as you explore all the wonderful attractions Dominica has to offer.

9. Local Rum

On the island of Dominica, you'll discover a wealth of local rums. This beverage is undoubtedly the favorite among both residents and visitors to this beautiful port. Explore the numerous rum cocktails available at restaurants, cafes, and beachside bars until you find the one you love. Be sure to try some of the popular brands that are infused with unique herbs and spices, like rosemary and cinnamon!

10. Fresh Fruits

Dominica's cuisine prominently features fresh, local tropical fruits. You’ll find an abundance of mangoes, papayas, bananas, guavas, and pineapples, which you can enjoy as freshly squeezed juices, in cocktails, or incorporated into various dishes. As you explore the island, you might even get the chance to pick some ripe fruit straight from the trees!

As you can see, there’s a diverse array of dining options in Dominica. A Caribbean cruise to this island allows you to experience a good number of these delightful local dishes. Even if you prefer to avoid the more adventurous options like manicou or agouti, you’ll still find plenty of other foods that promise a wonderful and fulfilling culinary adventure.

Please note that the activities available onboard, the excursions at ports, and the dining selections may differ depending on the specific ship and its destination.