Savoring Curaçao: A Guide to Its Delectable Fare and Drinks

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Caribbean

While Curaçao's breathtaking beaches and captivating tours are undeniably enticing, the culinary landscape sets this destination apart. Whether you consider yourself a food enthusiast or not, the quest for exceptional cuisine can significantly influence your vacation choice. Fortunately, Curaçao rises to the occasion, offering a culinary experience that reflects a vibrant fusion of diverse cultural influences steeped in tradition.

To help you navigate this culinary paradise, we've compiled a list of the island's most renowned and beloved culinary offerings.

Curaçao’s National Dish: Kesi Yena

Keshi Yena is a flavorful embodiment of Curaçao's cultural heritage, earning its place as the national dish. Its history is as rich as its taste, and it is often prepared on special occasions. This savory delight harmonizes chicken, vegetables, and spices, with cheese binding these elements into a symphony of flavor. Rooted in African and Dutch influences, this dish is a must-try at select local restaurants across the island.

Bitterballen

Bitterballen is a favorite among locals. These fried, bite-sized snacks are made with beef or veal ragout and a creamy gravy filling. Bitterballen encapsulates the essence of Curaçao's culinary charm.

Curaçao's Seafood

The island's seafood offerings span a wide spectrum, from exquisitely seasoned grilled fish to tantalizing shrimp creole. Adventurous eaters can savor meticulously prepared lionfish and Rauwe Haring, a local delicacy. Dining at the island's best seafood restaurants showcases Curaçao's prowess in this culinary domain.

Stoba

Stoba emerges as a flavorful representation of Curaçao's cultural medley. This hearty stew boasts influences from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. It's not unusual to find locals enjoying Stoba for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This slow-cooked dish combines tender meats, aromatic spices, papaya, and fresh veggies to create a vacation-worthy culinary delight. Although the type of meat used in this dish varies, papaya is the signature ingredient that adds sweetness.

Stroopwafels

Among the Dutch confections gracing Curaçao, Stroopwafels reign supreme. These delectable treats, a fusion of waffles and caramel, offer a sweet addition to the island's sunny shores. Easily packed for tours, Stroopwafels provide a delightful taste of Dutch authenticity, a perfect snack to accompany your exploration of Curaçao's culture.

Ayaka

Ayaka, often savored during the holidays, swiftly became a standout dish for us. With unmistakable Latin American influences, this flavorful treat comprises seasoned meat, vegetables, and peppers wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed. Its festive nature shines brightest around Christmas.

Giambo

Giambo, Curaçao's version of Louisiana gumbo, reflects a fusion of African and Caribbean flavors. With an okra base, this island soup is made with an array of seafood and aromatic spices. Sampling Giambo unquestionably underscores the culinary diversity thriving within Curaçao's vibrant cuisine.

Curaçao's Drinks & Cocktails

The allure of Curaçao extends beyond picturesque vistas to embrace an impressive assortment of island beverages. Here are some top picks you will not want to miss during your Curaçao vacation.

Blue Curaçao Liqueur

This renowned product from Curaçao, crafted by the Landhuis Chobolobo Curaçao Liqueur Distillery from the laraha citrus fruit, stands as a vibrant testament to the island's tropical essence. Best enjoyed in cocktails like Blue Lagoon, Blue Margarita, or Sea Breeze, its bright blue hue and citrusy flavor are quintessential to the Curaçao experience.

Green Rum (Rom Berde)

This is a locally crafted rum, also known as Rom Berde. Its unique flavor profile makes it a distinct choice and is available exclusively on the island.

Fresh Fruit Juice

Who doesn't want to sip on an ice-cold, freshly-made fruit juice while exploring a beautiful island? Thanks to its abundance of fruit trees, Curaçao's diverse selection of freshly squeezed juices—ranging from local orange to sweet pineapple—beckons at various shops, restaurants, and street vendors across the island.

Batido

Refreshing beverages like Batido can be a great start or end to a beach day or just about any day when vacationing in Curaçao. A creamy fruit shake made from blending fresh local fruits, milk, and a touch of sugar, the Batido offers a delightful refreshment to savor against Curaçao's scenic beauty. This sweet treat is a great way to beat the heat on your Curaçao vacation.

Awa di Lamunchi (Lime Water)

An island favorite, this lime-infused drink, loved by both locals and visitors, serves as a refreshing reprieve, especially on hot days while exploring the charms of Willemstad or other parts of Curaçao.

Sandal's Dining Out Program

If you are a fan of eating out, then you'll love Sandals' Dining Out Program. Guests of Sandals Royal Curaçao will receive $250 in dining credit per room that can be used at a restaurant that is included in the curated list of participating establishments. Sandals Dining Out Program is an excellent opportunity for dining at a top-rated restaurant in Curaçao while on vacation.

As a Certified Sandals Specialist, I will be happy to plan your next Sandals vacation.