Dining: Swimming in Seafood

Restaurants offer cuisines of the world, but local fish make you shout, “Wahoo!”

In Bermuda, “wahoo” is more than just a fun interjection to express exuberance. Wahoo is an athletic game fish, a vigorous mackerel, silvery blue in colour with a sweet taste like albacore.  

As an international crossroads, Bermuda offers plenty of American, British, French, Italian, Portuguese and Caribbean cuisines, and a growing list of Asian flavours.

Seafood
The seafood here practically leaps from the ocean onto your plate, and you can’t go wrong with the basics: local fish, pan-seared simply, served with a nice citrus vinaigrette.

If you see wahoo on the menu, order it. Look for the wahoo steak. Prepared properly, it will be superb. For lunch, try a light and healthy wahoo salad — lean protein amid pickled ginger, dried cranberries, carrots, arugula, salt, pepper, lemon and lime zest, some virgin olive oil, and a dash of rice vinegar.

But wait, there’s more! Red snapper, grey snapper, yellowtail snapper and the ubiquitous rockfish: All are abundant, fresh and rewarding in Bermuda.

Bone Fish Bar & Grill

September to March, try the spiny lobster, split down the middle and finished on the grill. A first cousin of the Maine lobster, around here the tasty crustacean is called “guinea chick.” Popular despite the price: Go for it!

Traditional Bermudian fish chowder arrived with the first colonists, then got spiced up here. The local staple starts with a rich, flavourful stock of fresh white fish, often rockfish, with a few heads and tails. Onions, potatoes, carrots, tomatoes and celery bulk it up. Pawpaw, bay leaves, peppercorns, cloves, thyme, parsley, bacon, sherry peppers, ground pepper, salt and a dash of black rum — OK, a couple of dashes — make this chowder sing.

Long, slow simmering is key to good chowder. Practically every Bermudian restaurant has its own take on the dish, but The New York Times gushes over two places: Hog Penny, a classic English pub, and the Lobster Pot, a nautical restaurant, both in Hamilton.

Outerbridge’s Original Sherry Peppers sauce — 50/50 flavour and fire — is an institution here, made from a secret recipe of 17 peppers, sherry wine and herbs. Ages ago, Royal Navy sailors used it to spice up bland or expired rations. Today it just makes a great chowder better.

Rockfish appears on every menu — steamed, broiled, baked, fried or grilled. Mussels are cherished, and a popular dish is mussel pie, filled with steamed mussels, fresh papaya, onions, potatoes and bacon, spiced with curry, lemon and thyme.

Harbourfront Restaurant, Sushi Bar & Grill Room

Until recently, you could find conch chowder and fritters. But alas, the giant sea snail is dwindling in number, thus protected here and illegal to import. Shark is not as popular as it used to be, but traditional shark hash can still be found often.

For a Bermudian Sunday breakfast, order codfish and potatoes served with bacon, tomato sauce, hard-boiled eggs, bananas and avocado slices. The salted codfish comes from New England or the Maritimes. The bananas are local. The dish is featured in many restaurants, and variations include creamed codfish and codfish cakes.

Terrestrial Food
Bermudian agriculture was built by onions — both the edible kind and the human kind. The large, flat, yellow-skinned, mild-flavoured Bermuda onion probably originated in Italy or the Canary Islands. It came with English settlers around 1616, and by the 1830s it was a big export. Bermudians started calling themselves onions and calling their islands the Onion Patch.

Onions still figure in many local recipes, including the onion pie, onion soup, onion casserole, onion biscuit bread, onion sandwich, onion soufflé, even glazed onion for dessert. By the 20th century, however, the onion business had moved to Texas — to a town now called Bermuda.

Henry VIII Restaurant & Pub

While Bermuda’s thin soil and dearth of acreage discourage most agriculture, these islands are not without their succulent crops. Bermudians grow potatoes, principally Pontiac red and Kennebec white. They also grow many fresh fruits, including strawberries, guavas, Surinam cherries, bay grapes (sea grapes), avocadoes and bananas.

Tasty jams, jellies, pies, sherbets, walnut breads and wines are coaxed from local Suriname cherries, which look like miniature pumpkins. Flaming cherries are served with rum and vanilla ice cream. Guavas are made into jelly to complement the johnnycake, a cornmeal bread simple enough for fishermen to cook at sea without burning down the boat.

In 1850, Bermuda imported loquats to encourage the birds to stop eating its expensive citrus fruits. Instead, the humans developed a taste for the yellow-orange plum-shape fruits, as liqueur, chutney, jam, pie and straight from the tree.

Other local favourites include Portuguese red-bean soup, a spicy contribution of the Portuguese farmers who came in the 19th century. In Bermuda, comedian Bob Hope once quipped, “Every restaurant here has a smoking and non-smoking section. The smoking section’s for people eating the Portuguese red-bean soup.”

Savoury cassava pie dates to Bermuda’s earliest days. The pie involves eggs, chicken, pork, sugar, nutmeg, mace and more — not exactly lean cuisine.

Try the traditional “peas and plenty,” black-eyed peas cooked with onions, salt pork and rice. Hoppin’ John is cowpeas, rice, and salt pork or bacon eaten as a main dish or side. Banana meatloaf is just like regular meatloaf, except with a sweet banana thing goin’ on. The Bermudian version of sillabub, an indulgent dessert from the days of King Henry VIII, involves layers of the local guava jelly, plus thick cream and sherry.

The Lobster Pot Restaurant & Boathouse Bar

Atmosphere
Like the Brits, the Bermudians enjoy their pubs. A typical pub lunch might be fish and chips, bangers (sausages) and mash, or shepherd’s pie, a pint (or two) of ale, and a rousing discussion of sports and politics.

Exemplars of the pub life include Flannagan’s Irish Pub on Front Street in  Hamilton, with fine ales and stouts, local and international dishes, and a dining area with a stage for entertainment. The Frog & Onion Pub in Royal Naval Dockyard, with traditional and not-so-traditional pub pies, serves up soups, salads and entrées, plus a good mix of locals and visitors. Other good pubs include The Dog House and Hog Penny in Hamilton, White Horse in St. George’s, the Swizzle South Shore in Warwick and Swizzle Inn in Baileys Bay.

Bermuda cuisine means fine dining beachside — gazing over sparkling pink sands onto royal blue waters with the golden sunshine reflecting off the bright-white yachts. The only thing even more indulgent might be dining aboard that yacht, gazing back at the islands, accompanied by your most valued friends, family members or business associates, while the attentive crew ensures you don’t lift a finger except to sip your favourite cocktail. MV Venetian and Lady Boats offer unforgettable evenings, with glittering views of Bermuda’s shoreline.

Diners here may dress up more than in the States or the Caribbean. For fine dining, men wear a jacket, maybe a tie (at least khakis and a collar), and women wear a dress or skirt. Jeans, T-shirts and sneakers, however, fetch looks of disapproval.

Many places automatically add 15 or 17 percent to the bill as a gratuity. Beware of tipping again if you are not sure. Cigarettes are smoked outdoors.

Best Bets
Here are some of our favourite places — pubs, ice cream shops, casual and fine restaurants, resorts, yachts and nightclubs.

64° Bar & Grill takes flight at the beautifully redesigned Port Royal Golf Course, overlooking the breathtaking, world-famous 16th hole. The contemporary design of the bar incorporates seating inside and out. Chef Troy Smith is at the helm and is set to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Savour the passion at the new 64°. (234-0974, www.bermudabestrestaurants.com)

Delight in authentic Italian cuisine delivered with real fine-dining flair in a stylish yet relaxed family atmosphere. The chef at Bacci, in The Fairmont Southampton, has creatively blended the very best of classic Italian traditions with the latest world-class cooking trends to create a symphony of original recipes and blended flavours from select regions of Italy. Each item is presented like a work of art, and each evening the culinary team selects special dishes to enhance its à la carte menu. Bacci is a celebration of the life, wine and great food of Italy. You will always be greeted with hospitality, warmth and enthusiasm, and you will want to return again and again. Bacci opens daily from 6 to 10 p.m. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Barracuda Grill

Barracuda Grill is one of Bermuda’s most celebrated restaurants and the place for outstanding seafood and chops. The grill has won several Best of Bermuda awards. Meet in the très chic bar and enjoy martinis made to share. The breathtakingly stylish Barracuda, found at 5 Burnaby Hill in Hamilton, features warm mahogany, plush banquettes and a sumptuous dining room, hinting at a time of luxurious passenger ships, popping champagne corks and refined dining. Irresistible seafood and chops, prepared with expertise and passion, grace the white linens. (292-1609, www.barracuda-grill.com)

Sit and watch the sun go down from the terrace of Blackbeard’s Hideout, overlooking Achilles Bay in St. George’s, for cocktails, lunch or dinner. A popular local spot with casual atmosphere and great food, this true Bermudian experience is not to be missed. It is also great for private functions. (297-1400)

Blu Bar & Grill

Blû Bar and Grill is ideally located to showcase fabulous views across the Belmont Hills Golf Course and stunning sunsets and water views over Great Sound. Blû offers great food characterised as bold American cuisine and steakhouse with a south-western flavour. This effervescent restaurant provides a wonderful atmosphere with wines and service to match. Visit for dinner any day of the week or treat yourself to a delectable Sunday brunch. (232-2323, www.diningbermuda.com)

Dockyard’s newest dining experience is at Bone Fish Bar & Grill. With an exquisite view of Bermuda’s breezy Great Sound; an award-winning, top rated chef at the helm; plenty of fresh fish and top-grade meats, how can you go wrong? Bone Fish Bar & Grill offers locals and tourists alike a reasonably priced menu with seafood, homemade pasta, great wines from around the world, draft beer and desserts to die for. Dine in the main restaurant or alfresco on the sun-drenched deck. All are welcome at the newest happening place to eat in Dockyard. (234-5151, www.bonefish.bm)

Sun, sand, food and fun: Amidst The Fairmont Southampton’s beautiful pink sand beach, the Cabana serves up all your favourite cocktails and lunch favourites. From the infamous Dark ’n’ Stormy, Yellow Bird and piña colada, to the islands’ best hamburgers, this place is the best for lunch, open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

An Italian family-style restaurant in the heart of Dockyard, Café Amici brings friends and family together to enjoy the spirit of Italian culture and cuisine, enjoying laughter, exceptional food and each other. Executive Chef and Owner Livio Ferigo has created a menu with many of the dishes that he enjoyed while growing up in Italy. The café offers a friendly, intimate atmosphere, with casual attire and uncomplicated, affordable Italian fare, as well as a traditional Bermuda codfish-and-potato breakfast every Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon. Located at the corner of Clocktower Mall, the staff of Café Amici looks forward to serving you a flavourful, relaxing meal, open seven days a week, serving breakfast 9–11 a.m., lunch to 4 p.m. and dinner 6–9 p.m. Buon appetito! (234-5009)

Blu Bar & Grill

Café Cairo (upstairs) on Front Street in Hamilton, and The Dog House (downstairs) offer and unbeatable combination for food and fun. Both are open until 3 a.m. with late-night menus and an eclectic vibe that draws both visitors and locals. Café Cairo offers an exotic fusion cuisine of Middle Eastern and European dishes against a background of Middle Eastern-inspired décor that includes a Sultans Tent room that’s perfect for groups. The smooth transition to a hip nightclub after 10 p.m. will keep you dancing to the wee hours. Downstairs at The Dog House you will find Bermuda’s best selection of beer on tap and the coldest bottled beer in town. Wide-screen TVs, the best electronic games, DJs and live entertainment are all masterfully mixed to provide a casual, fun atmosphere, with an imaginative food and special beverage menu that you can enjoy in the bar or the spacious veranda till 3 a.m. (295-5155)

The Cellar is the hot spot after dinner. Lounge or dance the night away to the best of the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and 2000s with Bermuda’s best DJs. It opens from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. (3 a.m. on weekends), located in The Fairmont Southampton, across from the Willow Stream Spa’s indoor pool on the mezzanine level. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Set into the rocks of the South Shore, open to sunsets and starlight with the sound of waves lapping nearby, Coconuts at The Reefs resort has earned praise from Frommer’s as the islands’ most romantic spot for an alfresco sunset dinner, and was voted Best Place to Fall in Love by The Bermudian magazine. Linger over cocktails at the Sand Bar while exploring the menu of fresh Bermudian fare. Reserve in advance for dinner on the beach, and dig your toes into the pink sand while enjoying an intimate meal, complete with tiki torches and the sea whispering in your ear. Call for reservations. (238-0222, www.thereefs.com)

Ferrari Bar @ LV'S boasts an elegant and sophisticated atmosphere offering entertainment for the mature crowd. This venue is perfect for all occasions, from a private business luncheon in the upstairs area, to a birthday or anniversary celebration catering to as many guests as you would like. Choose delectable tidbits from the menu, coupled with elegant wines and relaxing music. Ferrari Bar also offers daily happy-hour specials and weekly events sure to suit everyone’s fancy. It opens Monday to Thursday noon–1 a.m., Friday noon–3 a.m. and Saturday 8 p.m.–1 a.m. (296-3330, www.diningbermuda.com)

Silk Thai Cuisine

Bermuda’s only Irish pub is an incredible mix of locals, ex-pats and tourists in cosy, tasteful surroundings that give Flanagan’s its famous, exciting atmosphere, split into two separate bars: main bar and Outback Sports Bar. The main bar has a large dining area, stage for the entertainment, and balcony overlooking Hamilton Harbour and Front Street. The Outback Sports Bar is down a level, with 23 flat-screen televisions to watch any sporting event. (295-8299, www.flanagans.bm)

Elegance, charm and superlative service await you at the Fourways Inn. Long recognised as one of Bermuda’s finest gourmet restaurants, Fourways Inn offers a first-class dining experience and an award-winning wine list in a historic 18th-century manor-house setting. An old-world “peg leg” bar on the premises provides a casual atmosphere for a cocktail before dinner or a relaxing after-dinner drink. Dining service is available Monday to Saturday, and on Sunday experience the inn’s extravagant, indulgent Sunday brunch. (236-6517, www.diningbermuda.com)

The casual Freeport Seafood Restaurant Bar and Sushi Bar serves up fresh local fish and other family favourites. Surf the Web or e-mail your friends at one of four computer terminals in the cybercafé. Just inside the Royal Naval Dockyard gate, Freeport caters to all appetites and budgets. (234-1692, www.freeportseafood.com)

Fresco's Wine Bar & Restaurant

At Fresco’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, you are invited to step into Bermuda’s first wine bar and the Caribbean’s only wine museum. Experience one of the most extensive selections of fine wines available on the islands. With a menu influenced by the globalisation of food trends, yet embracing the best of Bermuda-grown produce and the succulence plucked from surrounding seas, Fresco’s reinterprets traditional dishes in a modern style, aptly coined as New Bermuda cuisine. While each dish evokes a link to Bermuda, it sits alongside the new, the innovative and, of course, the divine. Shall we? (295-5058, www.frescos.bm)

Step back in time and drink up the historic atmosphere in the English pub-style Frog & Onion. At this unique pub in Royal Naval Dockyard, you can enjoy casual meals or elegant dinners. Children love the large game room. Join the Frog & Onion for one of the fine brews from its on-premises microbrewery, Dockyard Brewing Company. (234-2900, www.frogandonion.bm)

Golfers delight! Conveniently located on the golf course at The Fairmont Southampton, the Golf Hut offers sandwiches, salads, hot dogs, beer and refreshments. Perfect before or after a round of golf. Hours of operation are 8 a.m.–4 p.m. off season, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. in season. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Griffin's

With breathtaking views overlooking St. George’s Harbour, Griffin’s Bistro & Bar is located at The St. George’s Club on top of Rose Hill. Join them for lunch or dinner in the newly refurbished Harbour View dining room, and enjoy great food and friendly service. Griffin’s is the jewel in the crown of St. George’s. (297-4235, www.stgeorgesclub.com)

Hammerheads Bar & Grill at Snorkel Park Beach is the place to relax and unwind, island style. Enjoy delicious food, snacks and the most refreshing frozen cocktails and swizzles at the huge terrace bar while you take in spectacular beach and ocean views. Island favourites are served daily, and sunset dining features live entertainment on select weekdays. When the sun goes down, the nightlife heats up at the open-air, top-40 CLUB SPB Nightclub. (234-3100 bar & grill)

Harbourfront Restaurant, Sushi Bar & Grill Room

The Harbourfront Restaurant, Sushi Bar & Grill Room, located on the waterfront at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute, offers beautiful water views and is the perfect setting for any dining occasion, casual or otherwise. The varied menu features items from its popular sushi and tempura bar, dry-aged steaks and meats, and the freshest fish and seafood. A wide variety of seafood and meats prepared on the specialised robata grill — which uses charcoal and smoked wood chips — is also available. The restaurant opens Monday to Saturday for lunch 11:45 a.m.–3:30 p.m., dinner 6–10 p.m. and sushi happy hour 5–6:30 p.m. Sunday is for dinner only, 6–10 p.m. (295-4207, www.harbourfront.bm)

Awarded the Best of Bermuda Gold award in hotel dining by The Bermudian magazine, Harley’s Restaurant and Terrace, at the Fairmont Hamilton, offers guests an incomparable dining experience in a bright and airy atmosphere. Enjoy alfresco dining while taking in the breathtaking views and the spectacular harbourside setting under the beautiful Bermuda sky. Enjoy delightful international fare for lunch and dinner, with succulent entrées for one of the most unique seasonal dining experiences on the islands. Call for reservations. Smart, casual dress is suggested. Harley’s opens daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hours of operation vary seasonally. (295-3000 ext. 7806, www.fairmont.com/hamilton)

Zeudi Hinds

Henry VIII Restaurant & Pub together with the Sushi Bar is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, offering an array of dishes on the a la carte menu, Sushi and Casual Bar Menu, served in the Oak Room Pub and Terrace. Entertainment is provided on the weekends for your dancing pleasure.  Don’t forget Sunday Brunch from noon to 3 p.m., still only $30, plus gratuity. Bring your friends, there is something for everyone at Henry’s. (238-1977, henrys.bm)

Comfortable and sophisticated, the Heritage Court, in The Fairmont Hamilton, offers the most cosmopolitan setting in Bermuda for cocktails, cuisine and conversation. In fact, it has been deemed the place for “best exotic cocktails” in the Best of Bermuda awards. Here an extensive collection of fine rums, wines and champagnes create an ideal mood, while the menu showcases classic Bermudian dishes. Its fabulous afternoon tea service and delicate pastries and sandwiches have also garnered a Best of Bermuda award from The Bermudian magazine, and were named among the 10 best afternoon teas by enRoute magazine (Air Canada). The Heritage Court opens daily from 11–1 a.m. Afternoon tea is served from 2:30–5 p.m., reservations required. Smart, casual dress is suggested. (295-3000 ext-5779, www.fairmont.com/hamilton)

Hog Penny

Hog Penny is Hamilton’s oldest licensed establishment (1957) and the original inspiration for the Boston pub in “Cheers.” Featuring live entertainment in season, Gourmet magazine has exclaimed “love at first sight.” With great cuts of beef, genuine Indian curries and hearty, to-die-for comfort food, Hog Penny has won numerous Best of Bermuda awards. Set at 5 Burnaby Hill in Hamilton, it continues to be a favourite spot for locals and visitors. (292-2534, www.hogpennypub.com)

Island Cuisine specialises in affordably priced, great tasting, local Bermudian home-style dishes. The menu features a large selection for breakfast, lunch or dinner, to satisfy any appetite, along with a selection of wine and beer. Island Cuisine prides itself on fresh food and a family-oriented, friendly atmosphere. So stop by and enjoy your favourite island dish today, centrally located in Southampton at 235 Middle Road. (238-3287, www.islandcuisine.bm)

A place for the quintessential martini, Jasmine Lounge’s elegant and relaxing atmosphere, with live entertainment nightly, is great for light fare, lunch, afternoon tea or just a snack. Located at the lobby level of The Fairmont Southampton, dress is resort casual, and the lounge opens daily from 11 a.m.–midnight. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Experience the unique selection of premium-quality products on offer at Juice ’N’ Beans, Bermuda’s first and only all-vegetarian eatery, with exciting choices of custom fruit smoothies and health-boosting add ins and distinct and delicious varieties of premium organic coffees and teas. Juice ’N’ Beans also offers an all-vegetarian buffet of freshly prepared dishes and homemade baked goods, open from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday, 1–6 p.m. Sunday. (292-6454)

With its dragons and Asian mystique, L’Oriental’s restaurant entrance, next to Little Venice, entices customers up the stairs into a world of fusion cuisine. L’Oriental is the islands’ first Oriental fusion restaurant offering the combined tastes and delicacies of the Far East. The meticulously handcrafted pagoda and decor provide a unique backdrop to the teppanyaki table and sushi bar, which provides immaculately prepared sushi. This award-winning restaurant is well known for its food, service and outstanding interior. Opening hours are Monday to Friday for lunch noon–2:15 p.m., Monday to Sunday for dinner 6–10 p.m. (296-4477, www.loriental.bm)

Join friends aboard Lady Boats for an evening like no other. Dine with Bermuda’s finest caterers while enjoying an ever-changing view of the shoreline. Dance on the top deck, sip cocktails from the fully stocked bar or just find a quiet place to take in the views. These boats have hosted the Royal Family, celebrities and soon, you and your group. Check the website, call to make a booking or get more information, or e-mail ladyboats@northrock.bm. (236-0127, www.ladyboats.com)

Latin

Pulling its inspiration from South America, the Caribbean and Miami, Latin is an upscale restaurant, quick-service café and tapas bar, located at 29 Victoria St. in the centre of Hamilton. The restaurant is perfect for a power lunch, business dinner, gathering of friends or intimate dining experience, with cosy private booths inside or wicker armchairs overlooking the courtyard. The chef, who taught cooking in Mexico City, offers authentic paella de mariscos, chargrilled Bermuda yellowfin tuna and other lures. Choose among fine wines representing Spain, Portugal, Chile and Argentina.

For quick service, JavaJive features specialty coffees, fresh baked goods and lunches to go. For a bit of South Beach scene, try Rumbar, where fresh oysters sit on crushed ice, and you can while away an afternoon sipping and nibbling Nuevo Latino cocktails and tapas. (296-5050, www.latin-rumbar.com)

Little Venice Restaurant & Wine Bar is Bermuda’s first Italian restaurant, celebrating over 40 years of fabulous service and fine food, and is touted as the best Italian restaurant in Bermuda by The New York Times and The Boston Globe. This restaurant is dedicated to producing an authentic taste of Italy with meticulously prepared classic and contemporary Italian specialties. The adjoining wine bar offers the islands’ most comprehensive wine list, providing excellent selections from around the world. Little Venice opens Monday to Sunday for lunch noon–2 p.m., dinner 6–10 p.m. (295-3503, www.littlevenice.bm)

The Lobster Pot

A salty restaurant, The Lobster Pot and Boathouse Bar is Bermuda’s oldest fish eatery, and has a faithful following among visitors and Bermudians. Service is friendly, prices are fair and the menu is enticing. There is always a good selection of fresh seafood from local and foreign waters. Specialties of the house include fish chowder, a succulent seafood feast, pan-fried local fish topped with banana and almonds, escargots and live lobsters. The staff welcomes you for lunch Monday to Friday 11:30 a.m.–4 p.m., and dinner daily 5:30 p.m. until closing. Reservations for both lunch and dinner are advised; closed on public holidays. (292-6898)

MV Venetian is luxuriously equipped to ensure that any event, ranging from a private social soiree to a fancy corporate affair, is a spectacular success. Lavish, well-appointed staterooms and state-of-the-art communication systems provide the perfect setting for a relaxing day cruise or an overnight voyage. The well-established catering service offers the finest cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner, supported by the best crew available in Bermuda. (295-3503, www.littlevenice.bm)

No visit to the Royal Naval Dockyard area is complete without a visit to the Nannini Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Parlour in Clocktower Mall. Open seven days a week featuring only Häagen-Dazs ice cream, sorbets and frozen yogurt. Treat yourself to one of the 16 flavours in a cone, sundae or milk shake. It can even be packed for you to take home. Nannini also offers a variety of indulgences from Italy. So give yourself a treat and visit the Nannini Häagen-Dazs Ice Cream Parlour. (234-2474)

The premier dining experience in Bermuda: Exquisite French-inspired cuisine is presented with style and elegance in the luxurious ambience of what could well be a royal yacht. Within its luxurious brass and mahogany interior, the Newport Room, a AAA Five Diamond award-winning restaurant at The Fairmont Southampton, completes the setting with crystal, silver service and bone china for an unparalleled dining experience at any occasion. It opens in season Monday to Saturday from 6:30 to 10 p.m., jackets required. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Seafood lovers delight! Perched above the beach on the South Shore, Ocean Club is one of Bermuda’s favourite restaurants. Its Asian-infused menu is the specialty, and naturally, only the freshest fish, delivered by local fishermen each day, will be found. The sunsets are dazzling, and the service, outstanding. During the summer months, alfresco dining is available on the fabulous terrace overlooking the shore. At The Fairmont Southampton, Ocean Club opens each evening during the season from 6 to 10 p.m. Dress code is casual. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Ocean Echo Restaurant at The Reefs

Perched high atop the cliffs, Ocean Echo’s impressive wall of windows complements each meal with a striking panorama of glittering ocean. The menu emphasises classic Bermudian cuisine and re-mastered favourites such as pan-fried rockfish, grilled beef tenderloin, seared maple duck breast and local fish cakes, served in rooms lined with cedar beams and Bermudian artworks. Ocean Echo hosts an extensive Sunday brunch, voted Best on the Island by The Bermudian magazine for its dizzying array of treats, spectacular balcony seating and famously impeccable service. Call for reservations. (238-0222, www.thereefs.com)

Opus Café & Lounge is a chic urban retreat nestled in the city of Hamilton’s restaurant row, infusing Bermudiana Road with a welcome dose of modern design. A truly exquisite Bermudian lounge, Opus offers the finest selection of European coffees and international teas, as well as homemade patisseries, fresh salads and tapas. Opus evolves from an upscale café by day into a laid-back lounge by night, with a full bar and an extensive wine list. Nestled in the heart of Bermuda’s business district, Opus is the perfect venue in which to steal away from the bustle of Hamilton, by yourself or with friends over a tasse of espresso or a bottle of vino — sexy, cosy and sophisticated. (292-3500, www.opus.bm)

Pickled Onion

The renovated Pickled Onion restaurant — contemporary, upscale and casual — has Bermuda’s best martini bar in which to see and be seen. Popular with Bermudian professionals, it features live entertainment during the season. The chefs have won prestigious accolades from the Bermuda Culinary Arts Festival, Food & Wine magazine, The Washington Post and, most recently, “Giada’s Weekend Getaways” on the Food Network. The style is North American with global influences, and the goal is to be the best-value restaurant experience in Bermuda. Find it at 53 Front St., Hamilton, overlooking the harbour. (295-2263, www.thepickledonion.com)

Royston's

Its grand fireplace, rich dark wood and candlelight give Royston’s the warm feel of a traditional supper club. Named after the owner’s father, Royston’s incorporates details reflective of the real Royston’s tastes, even using his handwriting for their menus. Portions are ample and the wine list extensive, with items such as Gosling’s Bermuda Rum-soaked pork chops and beef Wellington. Diners enjoy views of the display kitchen, available for cooking demonstrations and wine tastings. The Wine Room, which can be reserved as a private dining room, features a custom-built mahogany wine storage unit holding close to 1,000 bottles. Call for reservations. (238-0222, www.thereefs.com)

Silk Thai Cuisine

Silk is the latest restaurant concept to take Bermuda by storm with Thai cuisine. Run by restaurant entrepreneur Claudio Vigilante, Silk offers a delicious blend of flavours from the kingdom of Siam. With its team of Thai chefs from the Shangri-La Hotel in Bangkok, patrons are treated to one of the fastest-growing ethnic foods in North America. This award-winning restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday, with dinner only on Sunday. (295-0449, www.silk.bm)

Blessed by the scenic tranquillity of Mangrove Bay, Somerset Country Squire is the place to go for picturesque lunches at reasonable prices. On a sun-drenched terrace lined by palm trees, the restaurant offers superb dining à la carte. Downstairs is a sports bar with excellent satellite coverage and lots of local character. (234-0105)

Speciality Inn, a very popular restaurant, pizzeria and sushi bar, is family-owned since May 2005, but was first established in 1985 with one of the current owners. Over the years, Speciality Inn has become a famous spot not just for locals but also for celebrities like Jimmy Carter and Clint Eastwood. Well known for a diverse selection of tasty cuisines, great service and reasonable prices, the restaurant has won numerous times in Bermuda’s Best of the Gold Awards for daily specials, pizzas, codfish-and-potatoes breakfast, and much more. Kid-friendly, with a welcoming yet relaxed ambience, Speciality Inn is located at Collectors Hill, 4 South Road, Smith’s Parish, open Monday to Saturday 6 a.m.–10 p.m., closed Sundays and public holidays, reservations not needed. (236-3133, speciality@northrock.bm)

Swizzle Inn

No vacation would be complete without a visit to Bermuda’s oldest pub, the Swizzle Inn, at Bailey’s Bay (293-1854), or their newest location, Swizzle South Shore, at 87 South Road, Warwick (236-7459). First sip the original Rum Swizzle, their deliciously potent national drink! Then on to the patio or indoors to enjoy the award-winning Swizzle burger or Bailey’s Bay fish sandwich, pizzas, or the best nachos or onion rings. Dinner includes local fish, steaks, classic pub fare like bangers and mash and fish ’n’ chips. After dinner, stick around for great live pub entertainment. Stop by for their hugely popular weekend barbecue menu with slow-smoked ribs, steaks, chicken and seafood. Portions are good and prices are reasonable. Be sure to leave your card or a message on the pub walls, which are covered with graffiti from previous “swizzlers.” Both locations are kid-friendly. Check out their gift shops, which offer a wide selection of Swizzle Inn / Swagger Out clothing and gifts. (www.swizzleinn.com)

Temptations in St. George's specialises in great tasting, affordably priced food that satisfies any appetite. Enjoy a hearty breakfast bagel, delicious homemade soup, the best sandwiches in town, sinful desserts, ice creams and sherbets. Eat in or take out, open for breakfast and lunch Monday to Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (297-1368)

Zeudi Hinds

Tio Pepe is a very reasonably priced, home-style restaurant offering crisp, oven-fresh pizza, perfect pasta, all your Italian favourites, fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. Dine inside or outside on the terrace opposite Bermuda’s famous Horseshoe Bay Beach, open for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m.–10:30 p.m. (238-1897, www.tiopepebermuda.com)

Steeped in Bermudian history, the magnificent and historic Waterlot Inn, gracefully nestled dockside on Jew’s Bay, has been offering breathtaking sunsets and delectable Bermudian fare for over 320 years, and proudly boasts both AAA Four Diamond and Wine Spectator awards. Beamed ceilings and an inviting, gracious decor provide a wonderful setting to enjoy savoury prime steaks to please the most discerning connoisseur. Service is impeccable, but friendly. Located in The Fairmont Southampton, the beautiful outdoor terrace and adjoining gardens are ideal for a pre-dinner cocktail. You are guaranteed the best steak in Bermuda. Waterlot opens from 6 to 10 p.m. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

The White Horse Pub & Restaurant is Bermuda’s favourite pub and seafood restaurant, in St. George’s, well known for its creative and colourful dishes, friendly service and breathtaking views of St. George’s harbour. The pub offers covered waterside dining and an outdoor bistro area where you can soak up the sun if desired, not to mention you can feed the fish right below your table! It serves a wide selection of fresh local fish and grilled steaks, as well as your English and Bermudian pub favourites. When it comes to entertainment, nobody does it better, providing it day and night at the outdoor Native Islander Bar. Sit back and relax to all your favourite songs of the past and present while enjoying one of the bar’s signature cocktails made especially for you. For all you sports fans out there, this is Bermuda’s No. 1 sports bar in St. George’s, so sit back and enjoy wall-to-wall sports coverage of your favourite teams, from morning to night. The White Horse is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., bar open until 1 a.m. or later. Takeout is available. (297-1838, www.whitehorsebermuda.com)

Fairmont Southampton

It’s a family affair. Family food headlines the menu at Wickets, in The Fairmont Southampton. Join in for a hearty breakfast, or relax by the pool over lunch. Choose from a variety of family favourites, including soups, salads and sandwiches. Wickets opens every day during the season from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 9 p.m. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

Breakfast with a view: Off the main lobby of The Fairmont Southampton, Windows on the Sound offers breathtaking views of the Great Sound and an amazing breakfast extravaganza, featuring omelette and waffle stations, smoked salmon, breakfast pastries and breads, and many other morning favourites. On Sunday, the traditional and famous Bermuda breakfast buffet, featuring authentic Bermudian dishes, takes centre stage, available from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (238-8000, www.fairmont.com/southampton)

DID YOU KNOW? Bermudians are nicknamed "Onions" because of the famous Bermuda onions grown here. The island's nickname is "Onion Patch".

DID YOU KNOW? A Dark 'n' Stormy^TM is a traditional Bermuda drink made from Gosling's Black Seal Rum and Barritts ginger beer.

DID YOU KNOW? Jasmine, at the Fairmont Southampton, is the place for the quintessential martini.

DID YOU KNOW? Rustico in Flatts Village is a charming Italian restaurant serving innovative dishes with a twist: lobster tail wrapped in locally grown Bermuda spinach drizzled in a warm mango dressing and topped with prosciutto.

DID YOU KNOW? Steeped in Bermudian history, the Waterlot Inn at the Fairmont Southampton nestles gracefully on Jew's Bay and has been offering breathtaking sunsets and delectable Bermudian fare for more than 320 years.

For a complete restaurant profile, please use the links at the top of this page.

Make your Bermuda trip even more memorable with dolphins! Dolphin Quest offers fun, interactive dolphin encounter programs for all. Book your adventure today!

Have a fun-filled vacation with a cycle from Oleander. If you can ride a bicycle, you can easily ride an Oleander scooter. See all of Bermuda...reserve one today!

Getting Around Bermuda Relax, enjoy, save and see Bermuda by bus. A blue or pink pole indicates bus stops. If the pole is topped with blue, the bus travels from Hamilton; if the pole is topped pink, the route is toward Hamilton.