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.
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