If you’re a regular reader, you already know that I’m a huge fan of eating locally when traveling (you might call it one of my travel commandments). So while on our Caribbean cruise this spring, I was constantly looking for local eats. Here are two of my favorites:
Cocorico Cafe, Dominica
We found the Cocorico Cafe the best way possible: by asking a security guard stationed outside the courthouse where he would go for lunch. We found out what to order at the Cocorico Cafe the best way possible: by asking our local driver, Oris, what local dishes he likes to eat (& what local beer he likes to drink!).
Bottom line: always ask the locals.
Cocorico Cafe is located at the end of the main street in Roseau, past the tourist shops. Just keep walking, it’s there. Dishing up service with a smile since 1996, this small cafe features Caribbean flavors with a little bit of French flare (the owners are from northern France), & even wifi (a popular feature for restaurants in Caribbean cruise ports). The small restaurant has indoor (non-air conditioned) seating & a few outdoor tables. There was an eclectic mix of folks inside – but we were the only tourists.
We cracked open two Kubali, the local beer, & ordered up heaping plates of hot food. My jerk chicken was perfectly spicy, the husband’s fish in coconut curry sauce (a local delicacy) creamy & flavorful. They were both served with red beans & rice & a little salad. The meal was fresh, local, & excellent.
Sarafina’s, St. Martin
Judging both by the line stretching along the pastry case & the fact that every person I tell that we went there says “Oh, it’s so good, isn’t it?!” Sarafina’s is something of a St. Martin institution. Located on the French side of the island in the capital of Marigot, Sarafina’s is as authentic of a Patisserie as you’ll find outside of Paris. We arrived mid-morning, just as all the locals were lining up for their morning pastry & cafe au lait. Thinking we would be all smart & local, we decided to order our pastries en francais (or should I say en high school francais). In true American fashion, we botched our “J’voudrais…” horribly & were snapped at by the French woman in line behind us. Yes, now the experience felt authentic. We sat down at a tiny bistro table straight out of the Left Bank & sank our teeth into heaven. The chocolate eclair was silky & rich & melty & fluffy & lovely. The pistachio macaroon – my weakness – was nutty & crisp & fresh. The chocolate macaroon was crisp & chocolaty & tresbien.
Cocorico Cafe
Bay Street (just after the High Court of Justice)
Roseau, Dominica
767-449-8686
If you’re coming from the cruise port, walk to the end of the pier & turn left. Keep walking.
Sarafina’s
Boulevard de France
Marigot, St. Martin
You’ll see it… it’s right on the main drag. One of the largest restaurants, all outdoor seating.
We had breakfast at Cocorico almost every morning during our recent vacation on Dominica. SO good! Can’t wait to do it again. Glad we’re not the only ones who think it is a great little local spot.
Yes, I agree! When vacationing my husband and I always walk around, looking for the restaurant packed with the most locals. We have had the best meals in the places where we didn’t even know what we were ordering.