With over 150 restaurants on Grand Cayman, ranging from simple jerk chicken stands, pizza and hamburger outlets (no McDonalds franchise, though), to dining rooms featuring five-star haute cuisine, there's a spot for virtually every budget, and every culinary whim. Gourmets won't be disappointed...There is, however, no truly Szechwan restaurant, no Japanese (although there are sushi bars) or Vietnamese eateries and no real deli (like those in Montréal specializing in smoked meat).
Needless to say, the following is in no way an attempt to list all restaurants on Grand Cayman (a few of which we haven't tried) that are worthy of mention. Nor is it a directory of dining spots that have paid for an advertisement. The few, selected restaurants below are simply those, in various price categories, that have become our favourites over the last nineteen years; dining spots that we feel offer consistent satisfaction and good value -- considering their pretentions, price, service, and quality of ingredients and food preparation. While we have eaten out often, here and in several other countries, consider ourselves to be "difficult", and enjoy preparing our own culinary delights, we do not pretend to be professional restaurant critics.
Nevertheless, these establishments have also fared well in the opinions of our guests, who have invariably been satisfied and have confirmed our reasons for selecting them. Although we do have our "favourites" among these favourites, there's no particular order to the list below, and no attempt here to rank one against the other.
We'll strive to update and extend the list to eventually include every Grand Cayman restaurant that, for one reason or another, is worthy of mention and recommendation. Given our limited time and resources for this undertaking, your help is, of course, invaluable. Your experiences, comments and suggestions would be most appreciated.
At Portofino, in Gun Bay (just past East End, about 13 miles east of Turtle Nest Inn), manager Ramesh and his capable staff assure you of
excellent Italian and local dishes, and seafood specialties using the fresh catch of village fishermen. With advance notice, they'll even
prepare an authentic Indian meal. The setting is on the water and secluded, and the service informal, but efficient. Lunch and dinner are
served, as well as an affordable Sunday brunch. Their bruschetta appetizer and grilled filet steak in a cream of leek and mushroom sauce
are a must!
Hours: 11:30am - 5:00pm/5:30pm - 10:00pm (six days a week, closed on Monday)
Tel: (345) 947-2700
Fax: (345) 947-2701
E-mail: none
Website: (under construction)
Price: 
Finally re-opened, renovated, and better than ever! Situated in Breakers, just a couple of minutes east of Turtle Nest Inn, this oceanfront landmark is open for lunch and dinner, and boasts a
very professional serving staff, and a first-class wine selection. The Lighthouse offers a creative menu of local seafood and Italian dishes, a
screened patio, a new, expansive, and very pleasant bar area, and an air conditioned Port Room in which you can enjoy a good Cuban cigar. Their dock
remains to be rebuilt, so that you'll have to wait a while before you
can dine again over the water!
Hours: 11:30am - 5:00pm/5:30pm - 10:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 947-2047
Fax: (345) 947-2324
E-mail: captaing@candw.ky
Website: www.lighthouse.ky
Price:
The Brasserie restaurant, well hidden in Cricket Square (George Town), is a sleeper. In spite of the French name, the menu is eclectic,
ranging from Italian pasta, to Mediterranean dishes, oriental-style specials, classics like rack of lamb, and even Spanish tapas. However
difficult to categorize, the cuisine at The Brasserie is probably the most imaginative on Grand Cayman. Serving lunch and dinner, the best
bet here for a pleasant surprise is always the daily dinner specials. No culinary sampling of the island is complete without at least one
visit. The tasteful "plantation" decor is a pleasant visual surprise, as well.
Hours: 11:30am - 2:30pm/5:30pm - 10:30pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 945-1815
Fax: (345) 945-2081
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Located at the rear of the Grand
Harbour Shopping Centre, in Red Bay Galleria Plaza -- where the Hurley's
supermarket is located -- the main restaurant (the Brick House) is flanked by a
sports bar at one side (Davie Jones Sports Locker), and a coffee shop at the
other (the Brew House), belonging to the owners of the Brick House.
Smokers can indulge at the sports bar, and in the bar area of the Brick House
itself -- as well as on it's outdoor terrace. Very good bloody caesars,
and a very extensive menu that'll have something for everyone -- from
interesting appetizers and salads to hamburgers and sandwiches, pizza (baked in
a wood-burning oven), pasta, and main courses of seafood, lamb, etc. The
pizza is pretty good, as are the spinach salad, the BBQ ribs, and the chicken
caesar wrap. Conveniently located from Bodden Town -- well before George Town
and most traffic.
Hours: 10:30am - 11:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 947-3456
Fax: (345) 946-6397
E-mail:
john@nextlevelcayman.com
Website: none
Price:
Excellent food and service at a superb, oceanfront location in South Sound. Although the Grand Old House hosts a number of wedding
celebrations and seems to present itself as a restaurant for "special occasions", it's not really any more expensive than a number of other
upscale dining spots on Grand Cayman -- and more worthy of its pretensions than many. It's a big operation, with various dining areas
inside and out, and a pier jutting out into the Caribbean. The size of the restaurant and some of its marketing may give it somewhat of a
"tourist trap" image, but a number of recent visits certainly disproved the idea. The food -- continental and Caribbean fare -- was
consistently delicious and fresh, the service attentive and efficient, the choice of wine extensive, and the ambience most romantic. It's open
for lunch during the week, and for dinner seven evenings a week.
Hours: 12:00pm - 2:30pm (weekdays)/6:00pm - 9:30pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 949-9333
Fax: (345) 949-0635
E-mail: grandold@candw.ky
Website: www.grandoldhouse.ky
Price:
The Reef Grill at the Royal Palms boasts original, expertly-prepared cuisine, both for appetizers and main courses, as well as top-notch
service and a very extensive wine list. Excellent fish dishes (like their renowned sea bass), lamb and steak, and a couple of delicious pasta
dishes --and the daily specials are always worth a try. A delicious and intriguing appetizer is the roasted garlic with black olive tapenade
and flavored oils. Try for a table on the casual, outdoor garden terrace, right on Seven Mile Beach and seperated from the Caribbean by
the Royal Palms beach bar -- a good spot for live music and dancing, and belonging to the same owners as the restaurant.
Hours: 6:00pm - 10:00pm (Monday to Saturday, during the low season)
Tel: (345) 945-6358
Fax: (345) 945-6360
E-mail: rpalms@candw.ky
Website: www.reefgrill.com
Price:
A recent addition to the many dining spots here, and one not to
be missed by amateurs of Asian food. The best Thai cuisine
on Grand Cayman is located in Elizabethan Square, right in downtown George Town.
Yindee, the owner/manager/chef offers superb dishes (for
both lunch and dinner) that compare favourably with the best Thai food we've
eaten anywhere. Prices are quite reasonable for the island, and this applies as
well to the limited but decent wine selection. To start, there are very good chicken satay skewers
served with a peanut sauce and a small cucumber salad -- both outstanding. Other
excellent appetizers are the Thai egg rolls and cold spring rolls. Among main
course choices, we've so far tried the spicey basil chicken and the ginger fish,
and raved about both. As well, don't miss the vegetarian Phad Thai noodles
(i.e., without the chicken or shrimp options). A combination of clear rice
noodles, tofu, bean sprouts, cabbage, scallions and a dash of peanuts, no Thai
meal is complete without this classic, but originally-prepared dish.
Hours: 11:30am - 2:30pm/6:00pm - 10:00pm (Monday to
Saturday)
Tel: (345) 949-6141
Fax: (345) 945-7697
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Top-notch, Northern Italian cuisine with a Caribbean flair, and a broad and interesting wine selection, expertly served in your choice of
two large rooms (one with superb macaws and parrots, the other overlooking the lagoon) or on their screened, outdoor terrace.
Pappagallo is situated in Barkers (West Bay), at the extreme northern tip of Grand Cayman, so count on about a 45-minute drive from
Turtle Nest Inn. But the restaurant's location, in a bird sanctuary beside a natural lake, like its thatched roof, is what makes dining here an
exotic experience.
Hours: 6:00pm - 10:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 949-1119
Fax: (345) 949-3479
E-mail: papa@candw.ky
Website: www.pappagallo.ky
Price:
Grand Cayman finally has an Indian restaurant, and an excellent one at that. It's across from Seven Mile Beach (next to The Strand
shopping centre) and offers a lunch and dinner menu, as well as a recently inaugurated lunchtime buffet. The lunch menu includes even
sandwiches. There have been many talented Indian chefs manning the kitchens of quite a few island restaurants -- which invariably feature
one or two Indian dishes -- but, this is the first dining room dedicated to Indian fare. There are delicious vegetable samosas and "aloo
dosa" for appetizers, superb tandoori lamb chops (not to be missed) and chicken tikka kebab for main dishes, and very tasty vegetable sides like "aloo giobi"
(sauteed cauliflower and potatos), "masala dal fry" (lentil stew), and the mixed vegetable "korma". Main dishes are all served with safran
rice, raita, pappadum and Indian "pickles", and are quite reasonably priced. There's a decent wine list, as well.
Hours: 11:30am - 2:30pm (lunch, Monday to Friday); 5:30pm - 10:00pm (dinner, seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 946-2815
Fax: (345) 946-2816
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Located on the waterfront in North Side, this lively and informal beachfront restaurant and bar
serves good and reasonably priced Caribbean and Cayman fare. Known for delicious fish dishes,
Over the Edge is open for breakfast, lunch and
dinner, offers take-out meals and a seaside terrace. You can save money in the evenings by asking to see both the lunch and dinner menus.
They'll usually oblige and, aside from a choice of hamburgers and sandwiches offered at lunch, you'll find a number of dishes that are close
to those on the dinner menu, but at much lower prices. The menu and staff are
the same as The Edge, which regrettably closed its doors in Bodden Town at the
end of September 2003.
Hours: 8:00am - 10:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 947-2140
Fax: (345) 947-2108
E-mail: the_edge@candw.ky
Website: none
Price:
More of an informal "bar" atmosphere than one of a family
reatuarant, with a fairly young crowd of "regulars" -- but quite
welcoming and fun for people of all ages. There's a bar and dining tables
both inside and out on the front terrace at this fairly new restaurant across
from Seven Mile Beach (and the Marriott Hotel) and, for this category of dining
spot, we were impressed by many of the very reasonably-priced appetizers,
sandwiches, and main courses -- not to mention the well-mixed Bloody Caesar and
other cocktails. However, the wine list was quite limited and we were told
that it would soon be extended. Among our favourites are the (very generous)
spinach salad (CI$7.95); the chicken wings (CI$6.95, half-pound); the
"popcorn chicken" and "popcorn shrimps"; as well as the BBQ
pork ribs. The latter were excellent, meaty and tender! But, there
arte still many dishes we haven't yet tried.
Hours: 11:00am - 1:00am (seven days a week), but outside
bar serves a number of local dishes until 3:00am
Tel: (345) 946-6398
Fax: (345) 946-6397
E-mail: info@aquabeach.ky
Website: www.aquabeach.ky
Price:
Ristorante Ragazzi Pizzeria is located in Buckingham Square
Centre, just in front of the Hyatt Hotel along West Bay Road. Although the
complete menu features mainly fish, seafood and pasta -- and there's a selection
of daily specials -- Ragazzi's claim to fame are the many varieties of gourmet
pizza baked in a wood-burning brick oven, probably the best pizza on the island.
There's also an excellent wine list, including a number of choices sold by the
glass. Just across the parking lot, the owners of Ragazzi have opened Azzurro, a
caffe pasticceria offering homemade pastries, excellent Italian coffee,
sandwiches and salads. Hours for this lighter and quicker fare are 6:30am
to 6:00pm daily.
Hours: 11:30am - 11:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 945-3483
Fax: (345) 945-3743
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Also located in Galleria Plaza, across from Seven Mile Beach, PD's (Pirates Den) has more of a "bar" atmosphere, than one of a family
reatuarant, and is ideal for singles, couples and groups of friends. Popular and well-stocked bar featuring a broad range of beers,
excellent Bloody Caesars, but limited choice of wine. You can also rent Internet time on a couple of computers. Extensive and
reasonably-priced menu with breakfast, loads of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and a number of "home-style" meals. Try the spinach
salad and the "poutine" , a snack specialty from Québec that may sound like a weird mish-mash (fries and melted cheddar, covered with
BBQ gravy), but is delicious "junk food" (one order is plenty for two). And, there's a great Sunday brunch at CI$10!
Hours: 6:30am - 1:00am (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 949-7144
Fax: (345) 949-9093
E-mail: webmaster@pdspub.com
Website: www.pdspub.com
Price:
"Durty Reid's Palace...a Beanery" has relocated from Red Bay Plaza,
and is now at Pedro Castle. It still proudly claims to offer "warm beer, lousy food and surly help". Casual "sports bar" and lots of finger
food, open for lunch and dinner. A few daily specials posted on a board, good chicken wings, and hilarious meal descriptions in menu.
Several large-screen TVs, a bar, and tables split between the inside dining room
and an outdoor terrace. A good spot for people in Bodden Town that
saves driving into George Town when just a drink or simple and informal meal will do. Service is fairly quick and usually friendly, and
the prices are right.
Hours: 11:00am - 10:00pm (seven days a week, bar usually open until 1:00am)
Tel: (345) 947-1860
Fax: (345) 947-1500
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Dragon Garden Restaurant has relocated from Red Bay Plaza, and
is now at the new Countryside Shopping Village. Small take-out spot with pretty good Chinese and Sechuan dishes,
prepared with no MSG. There are a couple of tables for eating in, but bring your own wine or beer -- they don't have a liquor license. A
good spot for people in Bodden Town, as this new shopping mall is only a few
minutes away (and closer than before), with a large Foster's Food Fair next
door. And, it's the closest place to satisfy a craving
for Chinese fare. In fact, the food is pretty decent -- especially the hot and
sour soup. Fast service -- you can phone in your order in advance, and it's usually ready
for pick-up upon arrival.
Hours: 11:00am - 2:30pm (lunch, Monday to Saturday); 5:00pm - 10:00pm (dinner, seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 947-1166
Fax: none
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Eats, in the Falls Shopping Centre (opposite the Westin Hotel), consists of a more family-oriented room and a "bar"-type room, and offers
take-out, good breakfasts and lunches, as well as reasonably priced dinners. Very popular for snacks, sandwiches, burgers and a range of
full meals. No cole slaw but, if you're into avoiding meat, try the tasty, oriental-style, vegetarian stirfry, served in small or large portions.
Hours: 6:30am - 11:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 945-5288
Fax: (345) 945-5749
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Very good and affordable chicken, roasted fresh in a tropical wood rotisserie, right in the front window. Chicken!Chicken!, in the West
Shore Center, across from Seven Mile Beach, also offers a large selection of vegetables and salads as side dishes. Apparently, much better
for your health than southern-fried chicken, with substantially less fat. Eat in or take out, you can buy just the chicken (quarter, half or
whole), or a full meal, with corn bread and choice of two sides. A tempting, fast-food option!
Hours: 11:00am - 10:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 945-2290
Fax: (345) 945-2291
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
On the subject of fast-food, if you're not in the mood to cook or go out, Domino's, with an outlet in Savanah, will deliver pretty good pizza
and "buffalo" chicken wings right to your condo at Turtle Nest Inn. Their pizza is offered with regular, thin & crispy, or deep-dish crust,
and your choice of toppings. Usually delivered within 30 minutes, they even accept major credit cards.
Hours: 4:00pm - 11:00pm (seven days a week)
Tel: (345) 947-1188
Fax: (345) 947-1394
E-mail: none
Website: none
Price:
Probably the best dining value on Grand Cayman -- just a mile east from Turtle Nest Inn, in Bodden Town, and run by Lorna Wood. Very
tasty jerk chicken or pork. A quarter chicken (leg and thigh), complete with rice and beans, spicy sauce and a slice of white bread, for only
CI$4.00! If you prefer white meat, you'll have to order a half chicken. A nice walk, if you eat on their "outdoor terrace" (a picnic table
under a tree). Otherwise, take the car, carry it back to the Inn, pop open a bottle of wine and enjoy. At these prices, we wouldn't dare ask
for a discount. If you're coming to Turtle Nest Inn to "go native", Mrs. Wood's jerk stand is a must!
Hours: 4:00pm - 10:00pm (Mon.. to Sat., incl.)
Tel: (345) 947-1850 or (345) 917-5365
Fax: (345) 947-1850
E-mail: kristalkitty@hotmail.com
Website: none
Price: