The diversity of Aruba’s food options is as varied as the population of people who have made this beautiful island their home and the history that makes this country so interesting. From great food, fantastic atmosphere, and great views, Aruba restaurants offer menus that will blow your mind and have your taste buds tingling all the way home. There are many things you will remember about your Aruba vacation, and hopefully food will be one of them!

Aruba’s cultural heritage dates back long before Spanish influences that began around 1500 BC. The natives of Aruba had created intricate dishes using local ingredients found on the abundant island that produces fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, along with shellfish from the nearby ocean and inland animals that can be hunted.

When the Spanish arrived on the island, they brought some new plants and animals along with their own food heritage. Spanish recipes mixed with the local way of doing things until the Dutch arrived in 1636, adding a third and important influence to the pot that is Aruba’s food culture that we recognize today.

Traditional Aruba cuisine includes many different types of soups and stews that use common ingredients found on the island, namely goats or lamb and locally grown vegetables. Fish is also a common staple for stews or soups. Pastechi is a popular snack that is like a shepherd’s pie: a pie filled with beef or cheese that can be eaten throughout the day before larger meals.

As Aruba is an island, many of the ingredients used in dishes today are imported from around the world, because the things the island produces naturally are not enough to feed the many thousands of people who live here. . Although the ingredients are imported, many island chefs use fresh ingredients in their dishes and go out of their way to serve wonderful and healthy food for the people who enter their restaurants.

Caribbean-style food is what you’ll find in abundance in Aruba, from formal restaurants to beachside snack shacks. Here you will find Balchi di Pisca, Cool Island Soup, Cala, Bolita di Keshi and more local favorites! Find a restaurant that serves local cornbread and you won’t be able to forget it – this local delicacy, when done right, can change your life.

In Aruba you can also find international cuisine from around the world. Food from Argentina, Asian countries, Italy, and more make their home in Aruba, reflecting the diversity of the people who live here. Some of the most popular restaurants serve seafood cooked in a variety of ways, which is sure to appeal to people from all over the world. Teriyaki to sushi, fish and chips to grilled salmon; You will find what you are looking for on a plate somewhere delicious on the island!

Of course, to add to an already fantastic meal, try Aruba’s national beer, Balashi, or another local favorite called Dushi Aruba. When in doubt, just follow your nose!