Top Restaurants in Santa Cruz
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Santa Cruz Food Guide: 10 Must-Eat Restaurants & Street Food Stalls in Santa Cruz
Discover the best restaurant in Santa Cruz, Aruba including Yemanja Woodfired Grill, L.G. Smith's Steak & Chop House, The Flying Fishbone, Gostoso, Barefoot Restaurant, Carte Blanche Restaurant, 2 Fools and a Bull, Gelatissimo Bistro, Huchada, Italy in the World
Things to do in Santa Cruz
1. Yemanja Woodfired Grill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Yemanja is relaxing and welcoming with a passion for tradition and excellence. Serving international food with strong Caribbean influences prepared on our wood fired grill. Also, offering healthy foods with an extensive vegetarian menu and catering to all your dietary needs, such as vegan and gluten-free. Seating is either inside (air-conditioned) or outside on a cozy Terrace. Both inside & outside Seating are non-smoking.
Reviewed By tamegan327 - Ithaca, New York
This was my second time eating here and it did not disappoint 2 years later. We started with Calamari Trio which was plenty for 3.
My friends and I got 3 different entrees and shared them, the grouper special, grilled seafood medley and grouper (pangasius) fillet, which is my favorite. The sides are all very good and plentiful. The service was very good. I highly recommend making a reservation and eating here when visiting Aruba.
2. L.G. Smith's Steak & Chop House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Situated in one of the most upscale locations in Aruba, L.G. Smith's Steak & Chop House has a sweeping view of Oranjestad's downtown marina and the bustling boulevard. We proudly offers delicious American Steakhouse fare: juicy cuts of aged, USDA-inspected Certified Angus Beef, sizzling hot from the grill; delectable appetizers from both land and sea; and tantalizing desserts, including the Signature Mascarpone Tart. Our comprehensive wine list which was recently nominated by Wine Spectator Award of Excellence includes premium selections from around the globe to superbly compliment each course. New is our weekly a la carte Brunch. Every mid-morning on Sunday, L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House delights each guest by delivering a culinary experience that’s handprepared by our chefs, who are well versed in pairing soups,salads and specialty desserts with mimosas, a la carte style. And, last but not least, you will be pleasantly surprised by our reasonable prices.
Reviewed By allisonbinney - Washington DC, District of Columbia
Just had our second meal in the past five days at L.G. Smith’s restaurant. It was our favorite place. Great drinks, great food, great wait staff and bartenders. Everyone remembered our name. The steaks are the best around. The crab cake and shrimp appetizers were...MoreDear allisonbinney, I really thank you for sharing your positive experience in LG Smith with he rest of the users. It is great to see that you enjoyed every single meal served during your dinner. Best regards.
3. The Flying Fishbone
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4 reviews
Beach side dining, with even tables in the water. Great international menu, extensive wine and cocktail list and spectacular sunsets!
Reviewed By Teach_Travel_REC - Staten Island, New York
Several friends had told us how wonderful this restaurant was before we went to Aruba so we pre-booked a reservation and looked forward to it. Since this restaurant is quite a distance away from the high-rise,and low-rise hotels,we scheduled our reservation toward the end of...MoreThank you for dining with us! Our apologies for the underwhelming dining experience.
4. Gostoso
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1 reviews
Gostoso a local favorite restaurant, that serve a blend of both Portuguese and Aruban Cuisine, which is designed to delight even the most discriminating Palate. With our cozy and small atmosphere and impeccable service at a reasonable price “Gostoso Restaurante” will be your next favorite neighborhood Restaurant.
Reviewed By Kent B - Noord, Aruba
Last week four of us locals decided we wanted to try a place we used to like but haven't been in a while , Gostoso .We occasionally run into Jose' , the owner , and enjoy seeing him , very affable person . All of us remembered his unique and varied menu and reasonable prices .. His menu is still varied and interesting , but we were all surprised at his prices . We expected them to be higher than before , but they were higher than we expected . I suppose what really disappointed us was that after you order , there is no bread offered and if you ask for any , it is delivered on a single bread plate , one finger size slice per person , no bread plate , no butter ,and as you'll see later on your bill , a $2.50 charge . Now come on Jose' , as we say in the south , that is just plain chinchi ! His food is good , but as we realized , we could have gone to Pinchos for about the same money , and it is always great , including the beautiful view , or for just a little more Chalet Suisse , Aruba's best in our opinions !
5. Barefoot Restaurant
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3 reviews
Aruba is all about the fabulous Beaches during the day, and the many great restaurants at night. It is only logical that these two unique things of Aruba are combined into one! Luc & Gerco found the perfect spot to synergize great food, and a beautiful setting to create an experience almost unique on our island. When listening to the ocean caressing the shore, while wiggling your toes through the pearly white sand, why not let yourself be pampered by a gourmet dinner? Chef Gerco & Maitre d' Luc had a shared dream of opening up a restaurant here, but wanted something in line with what they enjoy on Aruba: the nearly perfect climate, the possibility to always be outside, the tropical feel... When opening their restaurant, they had these ideas in their heads, and it worked like a charm! Tables under a large palapa on a wooden deck with a view of the ocean, or outside under the Aruban nights sky, on the pristine beach... An original menu was created by Gerco and team, with some of the old school favorites as well as locally influenced dishes. With the help of the local wine suppliers, Luc made an extensive wine list, with wines from all over the world, and is always ready to pair a wine with your dinner. The experienced service team is friendly yet professional, ready to wow you from the moment you walk in, to make a fabulous evening into a great memory on Aruba!
Reviewed By PAUL C - WESTFORD
My wife & I with good friends went to dinner at Barefoot Restaurant while vacationing in Aruba.
The setting was spectacular, especially after the sun set. Prior to the sun setting it was a wonderful experience. It was our first dinner on a beach and with no shoes to boot.(pun intended)
We arrived around 6:30. The sun was slowly sinking into the Caribbean. The tables were arranged on the beach looking spectacular. The hostess led us to our table a few feet from the water's edge. It was beautiful. I could not imagine having dinner in a more magnificent setting than here.
Our waiter arrived quickly and drinks were ordered. We all opted for tropical drinks. It seemed appropriate. I mean how could one order a beer while sitting barefoot a few feet away from the caribbean with the sun setting behind us?
It was so relaxing with total comfort surrounding us as the waves gently splashed the shoreline and we sipped our cocktails while perusing the menu. We each ordered a seafood entree. I ordered the blackened Mahi-mahi. I asked the waiter for his recommendation. I was torn between the Mahi-mahi and Snapper "Old Amsterdam". the waiter recommended the Mahi-mahi.
After another round of drinks and numerous "kodak moments" picture taking, our meals arrived. The meals were delicious. There was not a morsel of food left for a seagull. We were in no rush so lingered on while enjoying the magnificent sun set and the lighting surrounding the dining area. It seemed as though we were on a movie set. It was breathtaking. Elegantly casual is the best description of the experience.
For dessert, my wife ordered Coffee Creme Brulee, which she loved. According to her, it was the best if not one of the best, she's had.
You must experience the Barefoot Restaurant while in Aruba. I'm sure it will exceed your expectations as it did ours.
6. Carte Blanche Restaurant
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
Carte Blanche is a restaurant for foodies, people who are open minded for an exquisite fine dinning experience, without limitations. Carte Blanche features a 14-seat elegant bar in a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. The highlight of the restaurant is Chef Dennis van Daatselaar cooking right in front of you a 5-course Carte Blanche dinner known as a “chef surprise”. Alongside him is Maitre d’ Glen Bonset pairing wines and mixing premium drinks
Reviewed By AvidSpartan - New York City, New York
We went to 2 Fools and a Bull the night before we dined here and thought that it couldn’t be topped; but Carte Blanche sure proved us wrong! Good food, good company. Our fave dish was the scallop on a bed of “potato salad” - amazing. Thanks, Dennis and Glenn!
7. 2 Fools and a Bull
Overall Ratings
5 based on 1 reviews
A 5 course dinner experience, a " one night only" in the house of the Fools!Starting at 7pm, till ? 18 seats only...An experience you wont forget!
Reviewed By Kellie T
We absolutely loved 2 Fools and a Bull!!! The experience whole coupled with the amazing food, truly made it one of my top 3 dining experiences ever!!!
It’s a set menu, so it definitely took me out of my comfort zone- but I’m thankful for that. I tried foods I probably never would have otherwise ordered on my own.
If you’re coming to Aruba I HIGHLY suggest you get yourself on the reservation and/or wait list when you book your hotel.
Unfortunately we hadn’t even heard of it until we got here. So we called and emailed daily and we just happened to luck out, that a nor’easter back home, allowed us to get in last minute.
I felt like a kid of Christmas when I got that call from Pauly, telling us we “you’re the lucky fools”.
Pauly is the front man, very dry humor but hilarious!!
Bas is the chef and he didn’t disappoint!!
My husband and I both agreed it was a 5 star experience.
8. Gelatissimo Bistro
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
Gelatissimo Bistro is one of our newest additions Giannis Group family, introducing the delicious treats and friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere. Using only the finest ingredients, personally selected by the owners and imported from Italy, Gelatissimo Bistro definitely brings you an authentic European ambience with a modern touch on the island of Aruba with a merge of traditional Dutch architecture, and Italian taste to downtown, Oranjestad. Our homemade Italian gelato has a vivid flavor and tease up your taste buds when experiencing one of our countless different flavors. Be sure to check out our all-natural and fresh sorbets as well. Which are made only with organic local Aruban grown fruits. You can experience our homemade Italian gelato at Bistro downtown in the heart of Oranjestad or at Gelatissimo Palm Beach right across the Radisson Resort and Casino. As part of Gelatissimo, we have created a cozy and comfortable Terrace where you can sit back and enjoy your day watching the trams pass by. Gelatissimo Bistro is definitely a different concept on the common path in the downtown area. If you're looking to enjoy a cocktail or a great place for lunch, in Aruba's downtown shopping center, Gelatissimo Bistro is your hip and trendy pick downtown, with a extended menu of choices to choose from. We have a diverse bar as well with our daily happy hour with the most exiting cocktails and martinis available. Offering a interesting lunch menu with fresh hot Panini', delicious fresh salads, hot lunch is what our customers have always raved about, especially our original Napoleon Pizza. We have the best cappuccinos and espressos on the island, made by your personal barista. The Gelatissimo Bistro "to go" option is always available as well if you would prefer to enjoy your Gelatissimo experience at home.
Reviewed By AnonEMuis - Washington DC, District of Columbia
Friendly staff served us great gelato on all three visits so far. Try the soursop for something different, or the Chillato (beer gelato). The dark chocolate is also divine. They also have all the usual gelato flavours - we tried, and enjoyed, nutella, hazelnut, and pistachio. It's in a nice location with lots of people-watching potential.
9. Huchada
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 22 reviews
Huchada is a friendly neighbourhood bakery located in the center of the beautiful island of Aruba. We have a broad range of pastries, cakes and other delicious snacks for take-out or enjoyment in our cozy Seating area.
Reviewed By Ashley0820 - The Netherlands
Huchada is by far the best bakery on the island. From traditional cakes, authentic snacks, hearty breakfasts, fresh juices, and tons of bread choices, to more modern desserts and snacks, there are endless options. The service is wonderful and the servers are friendly. Centered in one of Aruba's oldest streets, it attracts locals as well as tourists. There is a lovely front Terrace with plenty of room to sit and eat. Definitely recommend to anyone visiting the island to experience it how locals do. If you go during Christmas time there are extra treats to choose from, and on New Years Eve the bakery sells fresh Ollieballen (a traditional dutch pastry). I have been to the bakery for all three meals and was not disappointed for either one.
10. Italy in the World
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 111 reviews
Wine bar & high quality italian products
Reviewed By Stu C - Vineland, New Jersey
Finally had a chance to stop in for dinner. Very small place; only a half a dozen tables or so. Small staff; the owner is host, cashier, server and probably helps in the kitchen. Only 1 other cook in the back. If you go, plan on staying awhile because everything is cooked to order. The bread comes brushed with olive oil and seasoning with some freshly made pesto. Delish! I had the Spicy Pasta Caprese and my wife had the Tagliolini Bosolo, both specials. Mine was not really spicy, but good nonetheless. My wife's dish was pasta in a creme sauce which was also good. We split the Tiramisu, which was different than what we've had in the past but good. The chef is from northern Italy (Trento) and we're used to southern Italian cooking. Overall a good meal. No service charge is added and prices are par for the course for the island. Haven't had much Italian while on the island but this was good.
