Five places to eat like a local in St. Kitts

A stroll from the capital of Basseterre, down-to-earth Caribbean food served in casual-chic surroundings has earned this distinctively local eating spot a solid reputation for quality and consistency. The menu varies daily, but you can look forward to hearty fare such as curried conchs, stewed saltfish, pigtail soup and spicy jerk chicken. Vintage reggae is a bonus. 

Basseterre

You won’t find seafood any fresher than at this popular bar and restaurant on the outskirts of the historic fishing village of Old Road, and that’s largely because the owners catch all their fish and lobsters themselves. Dishes are served straight off the grill with filling family-recipe johnnycakes among the sides. Live entertainment is a regular addition.

Island Main Road

A vegetarian heaven, OJ’s is a landmark serving salt- and meat-free Rastafarian fare in the heart of Basseterre.The array of homecooked ‘Ital’ dishes regularly includes pastas, chunks of sautéed soya, peas and rice, ground provisions (sweet potato, eddoe, tannia and yam) and fresh local juices.

Basseterre

A fixture on the ever-popular Frigate Bay strip of beach bars, Shiggidy Shack is an ultra-casual hangout popular with both locals and savvy tourists. The unpretentious menu features fresh fish and lobster and if you snap up a beachfront table you can eat your selection (the fish burgers are superb) with your feet dangling in the sand.

Frigate Bay

Locals and tourists love this slice of down-to-earth St. Kitts tucked away in a corner of Basseterre’s bustling Port Zante cruise ship complex. Owner Beverly offers an enticing range of local favorites and her most popular dish is a savory saltfish bake. Other modestly priced options include stewed chicken with peas and rice and crisp fried fish.

Basseterre