Our Favorite Restaurants in Curaçao

When we’re in Curaçao, dining out is one of the things we look forward to most. The island offers an amazing mix of casual beach bites, fine dining, and local treasures that you just can’t find anywhere else. Below are some of our absolute favorite restaurants — not ranked, just a curated list of places we keep going back to, each with its own vibe and flavor.

Zest Beach Café – Barefoot dining at its best

Zest Beach Café is our go-to spot when we want to unwind after a beach day or watch the sun dip into the sea. Located right on Jan Thiel Beach, this café offers fresh bowls, burgers, sandwiches, and great drinks — all with your toes in the sand. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and perfect for any time of day.

Zest Restaurant – Elevated dining by the ocean

Just next door, Zest Restaurant brings a more refined experience. Think freshly caught fish, juicy steaks, pasta with truffle, and carefully selected wines — all served under swaying palms with the ocean nearby. We love coming here for special dinners, though honestly, every visit feels like a special occasion.

Zanzibar – Lively, laid-back, and full of flavor

Zanzibar always delivers good vibes. The atmosphere is upbeat and friendly, and their wood-fired pizzas, chicken satay, and curries are among our favorites. It’s a great place for casual dinners, and on Fridays, it often turns into a lively gathering with music and dancing.

Brisa do Mar – Just around the corner, always a win

Located just a 2-minute walk from Casa Lapalapa 19, Brisa do Mar is a gem of a place — super convenient, and full of local charm. The food is simple but delicious, with plenty of grilled fish and Caribbean dishes. The setting is laid-back, with a breeze from the water and friendly staff that make you feel right at home.

De VisBoer – The best fish on the island

This is hands-down one of our favorite spots. De VisBoer may look unassuming from the outside, but the quality of the seafood speaks for itself. Freshly grilled, perfectly seasoned, and served with a smile — it’s authentic, affordable, and absolutely delicious. It’s located right by the harbor, just a short walk from Casa Lapalapa 19. You can eat at one of the shaded tables or take your meal to go. Either way, it’s a local experience not to miss.

Mosa Caña – Creative dishes in a tropical setting

For something a bit trendier, we love Mosa Caña. It’s a lively garden-style restaurant with a focus on shared plates and bold flavors. Their menu is globally inspired, featuring creative takes on street food, tapas, and fresh cocktails. The setting is beautiful — think string lights, cozy corners, and a boho-chic vibe.

The Gouverneur – Historic charm with a harbor view

Located in the heart of Willemstad, The Gouverneur combines stunning views of the colorful Handelskade with a great dining experience. It’s our top pick when we’re exploring the city. The food blends Caribbean and European influences, and the terrace overlooking the harbor is the perfect spot for lunch or dinner with a view.

De Don (Truk’i Pan) – Late night comfort food done right

Sometimes, nothing hits the spot like a Truk’i Pan. De Don is our go-to food truck when we’re craving burgers, ribs, or loaded fries after a long day. It’s casual, affordable, and full of flavor — perfect for those nights when you want something easy but satisfying.

Hemingway – Beachfront dining from sunrise to sunset

Hemingway is the kind of place where you can have breakfast in your swimsuit or sip cocktails by candlelight. Located at LionsDive Beach Resort, this restaurant is open from morning till late, offering everything from pancakes and omelets to grilled fish and pasta. The location is stunning, the food is always fresh, and the atmosphere screams vacation.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a beach bar with cocktails at sunset or a cozy spot for fresh-caught fish, Curaçao has something for every mood and moment. These restaurants have become part of our Curaçao rhythm — and we hope they’ll become part of yours too.