There’s no better way to truly discover a vacation destination than by eating like a local, and The Bahamas is no exception. When visiting Nassau Paradise Island, an authentic Bahamian dinner is an absolute must! Combining Spanish, West African and British influences, the flavors of The Bahamas will take you on a culinary journey you won’t soon forget.
So, on your next vacation to paradise, savor the tastes of the island with these 10 must-try meals:
Grouper – The Bahamas is known for its fresh seafood dishes and one of the most frequently enjoyed catches on the island is the grouper – a fish with light flavor similar to that of bass or cod. Commonly grilled or fried, it is a delicious regional dish that you won’t want to miss.
Conch – A must-try meal list wouldn’t be complete without conch (pronounced “konk”). This Bahamian specialty can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including cracked conch, conch chowder, conch fritters, and conch salad. No matter which way you choose, it will definitely be one of your most memorable meals in paradise.
Peas n’ Rice – Pigeon peas, a common bean of the Caribbean, with rice is a staple in The Bahamas. As a signature side dish for local fare, there’s no way you can leave paradise without trying this island classic.
Souse – No dinner is complete without an appetizer and souse (pronounced “sowse”) is the number one choice for Bahamians. This scrumptious, savory stew combining onions, lime, celery, peppers, and meat is beloved on the island. After just one bite, you’ll know why!
Traditional Bahamian Macaroni and Cheese – If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food while visiting Nassau Paradise Island, look no further than traditional Bahamian macaroni and cheese. Across The Bahamas, this mouth-watering meal is a must for Sunday dinners and holidays, and is sure to make you feel right at home.
Bahamian Johnny Cake – As the unofficial bread of the Bahamas, the Bahamian Johnny Cake is a local must-eat! While the word “cake” conjures up visions of sweet treats, Johnny Cake resembles more of a cornbread or another dense loaf, and is a delicious addition to any meal.
Bahamian Rock Lobster – A distant relative to the American lobster, Bahamian rock lobster is a local delicacy that’s definitely worth a try. Enjoy these tasty crustaceans broiled, minced or used in a fresh salad.
Guava Duff – Enjoy the perfect ending to your meal with the island’s iconic guava duff. This traditional Bahamian dessert combines guava and sweet dough, with a special rum or brandy butter sauce drizzled on top. It’s decadent and delicious – what more could you ask for?
Rum Cake – A taste of rum is a requirement while visiting Nassau Paradise Island – it is one of the most popular beverages in The Bahamas after all. And rum takes center stage in the Bahamian rum cake, a traditional island favorite sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Tropical Fruit – With a variety of fruit trees in paradise, Bahamians love to indulge in fresh fruit. When it comes to local fare, fresh guava, mangoes, tamarind, soursop, sapodilla, melons and passion fruits make for a tasty treat anytime of the day.
To learn more about Bahamian cuisine, visit Nassau Paradise Island and indulge in a bona fide Bahamian meal at one of our many dining options. Need a drink to wash it all down? Quench your thirst at these top watering holes.