If you’re looking for restaurants in Bonaire, I promise you’re going to find a good one. Dining on this island is excellent and far exceeds what most expect given it’s an island.
There is a wide variety of Bonaire restaurants, but whether you are looking for a casual food truck with fresh seafood or a modern restaurant with beautiful decor and excellent service – you’ll find everything under the sun on Bonaire Island.
On this island you’ll find everything from fancy sit-down restaurants, to delicious cash-only food trucks, to vibey beach clubs you can spend an entire day at.
Many people ask if dining out in Bonaire is “expensive”
The cost of eating out in Bonaire can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the type of restaurant, the menu items, and the location. Bonaire is a popular tourist destination, and as a result, there are a variety of dining options available, ranging from fast food to high-end restaurants.
In general, dining at casual or mid-range restaurants can be relatively affordable, with prices ranging from $10 to $30 per person. However, dining at more upscale or specialty restaurants can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $30 to $100 or more per person.
Expensive is relative, isn’t it?
I used to live in NYC and SF, which makes the rest of the world feel relatively inexpensive. I often ate the local catch of the day ($24-$30) and drank at least a few glasses of wine ($10-$12 each). In my opinion, for what you get, eating out in Bonaire has good value for your money.
Are there cheaper options on the island?
Why yes! The grocery store! I loved shopping at Van Den Tweel (more info on that below) and there are some VERY lovely wine shops on the island that I’d buy cases of wine at a time at.
Sebastian Restaurant ($$-$$$)
This popular restaurant serving fresh ingredients with a mediterranean flair has two locations. One is in the popular downtown Bonaire with beautiful sunset views area while the other is a more casual vibe on the opposite side of the island in Sorobon.
A popular dining destination that is known for its contemporary cuisine, friendly service, and beautiful setting.
Sebastian offers a range of dishes that are inspired by international flavors and local ingredients. The menu includes items such as fresh seafood, grilled meats, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options, among others.
Sebastian Restaurant is known for its romantic atmosphere and beautiful views, making it a popular choice for special occasions and romantic dinners. The restaurant may also offer live music or other entertainment, making it a lively and engaging dining experience.
What is it MOST known for?
Sebastian is one of the best spots for a sunset dinner. Get the local catch of the day and enjoy a great wine list and an even better view.
Read more and see their latest menu here.
Kite City Food Truck ($-$$)
Bonaire has several food trucks and this is one of the most popular ones. Kite City Food Truck is located right on Te Amo Beach across from the airport.
Known for serving fresh fish sandwiches and wraps, don’t miss out on the catch of the day. Also equally important, don’t forget to bring cash and something to sit on while enjoying the views at the beach!
Want to SEE all these restaurants? See the full video below!
Food trucks are becoming increasingly popular in Bonaire, as they offer a fun and unique dining experience that combines convenience, affordability, and delicious food. If you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal while exploring the island, Kite City Food Truck is a great option to consider.
Jibe City Hang Out Beach Bar ($-$$)
A chill spot to watch beautiful ocean views and kite surfers and wind surfers zipping around? THIS is your go-to restaurant.
Jibe City Hangout Bar is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is known for its lively music, dancing, and social events. The bar may offer a range of drinks, including cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as light snacks and food items.
Jibe City Hang Out Beach Bar is located in Sorobon right on the water. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite after being in the water OR just come here and enjoy their beach chairs or beach beds that are IN the water.
They’ve got a full bar (and also serve coffee) and on the food menu they’re serving up sandwiches, salads and dutch cuisine.
Keep an eye on their website because they do have a BBQ night that I had my eye on…
Speaking of Jibe City – if you’re interested in what WIND SURFING is like and what other activities there to do on Bonaire when you’re NOT scuba diving, checkout this blog post or see the video below!
Between 2 Buns ($-$$)
Between 2 Buns in Bonaire is a dining establishment that specializes in serving sandwiches and other food items. The restaurant is known for its delicious food, friendly service, and affordable prices.
A casual spot with indoor and outdoor seating this is your go-to for burgers and sandwiches with REALLY fun cocktails.
This sit-down restaurant oddly has fabric seats, so plan on sitting outside if you’re fresh from a dive or the beach. It’s one of the few places that is AIR CONDITIONED (very important when Bonaire is scorching hot in the summer). Don’t miss out on the delicious pastries.
Come to Between 2 Buns for breakfast sandwiches, burgers or salads for lunch or a casual grab and go dinner.
If you’ve got kids, they have a small playground out back.
Joe’s Bonaire ($$-$$$)
They’ve been around for over 10 years, serve up an international menu and they even make their own (sweet) liquor. They serve to you after your meal for a really lovely post-meal treat.
Joe’s Restaurant offers a range of dishes that are inspired by local and international flavors. The menu may include items such as fresh seafood, grilled meats, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options, among others.
The setup of Joe’s is very traditional of many Bonaire restaurants. There is no real “indoor” seating, it’s an open setup and some tables are “under the roof” while others are outside in the open.
Translation: if it’s hot out, this might not be the restaurant for you.
HOWEVER, if it’s a typical beautiful Bonaire evening, come here for dinner (get the local fish) and this was some of the best service I got on the island.
The Beach, Bonaire ($$-$$$)
Hello vibes. The Beach Bonaire is a restaurant to checkout daytime for daybeds on the beach with cocktails in hand.
Located across The Grand Windsock resort and also next to the airport, it’s a fun spot to watch the planes coming in.
This restaurant wins on a fantastic wine list and a really great (large format) beach club-like vibe, but it was a miss on the food when I was there. I ordered the local fish and no one wants to eat fish that SMELLS like fish. To be honest, I’m still going back for the atmosphere, because the I’m sure it was just an off-night (but I’ll likely be a champ drinking champagne for dinner).
One of the BEST things about this spot? Direct (and very easy) access into the ocean. Also, don’t miss running and jumping off the dock into the water!
Osaka Sushi ($$-$$$)
Head upstairs in Downtown Bonaire to a Osaka sushi restaurant with indoor and outdoor (balcony) seating. Portions are small (and prices are high, expect to pay at least $20 per roll), but the fish is fresh and the service is friendly!
Ocean Oasis ($$-$$$)
Ocean Oasis Bonaire is a VERY vibey spot with great atmosphere that’s not to be missed if you love live music (potentially some late night dancing), day time beach club, and delicious food options.
Ocean Oasis offers a range of dishes that are inspired by local and international flavors. The menu may include items such as fresh seafood, grilled meats, pasta dishes, and vegetarian options, among others.
Ocean Oasis is known for its stunning ocean views, making it a popular choice for romantic dinners or special occasions. The restaurant may also offer live music or other entertainment, making it a lively and engaging dining experience.
Whether you come day-time for poke bowls at lunch or dinner time for the catch of the day, Ocean Oasis is a great spot to relax and enjoy the ambience, food and great service.
Located a little bit more “south” on the island, this spot is more “luxurious” than the other spots I’ve mentioned. It’s also why I love coming back here!
Chef’s Bonaire ($$$$)
Chef’s Bonaire offers an exceptional dining experience on Bonaire Island, combining exclusivity and culinary excellence.
Known for its intimate setting, the restaurant only accommodates 20 guests per evening at 7:00 PM in a cozy U-shaped arrangement, with the addition of two more private tables for those seeking a more secluded experience.
Due to its popularity, it’s essential to plan ahead as there’s a four-month waiting list. The best approach is to register your desired dates on their website to increase your chances of securing a reservation for this sought-after dining destination.
The dining experience at Chef’s Bonaire goes beyond the ordinary, blending local flavors with innovative cooking.
What truly enhances the experience at Chef’s Bonaire is the wine pairing. If you have even a slight inclination towards wine, the pairing here is not to be missed. Each wine is carefully selected to complement the courses, and with an unlimited pour policy, guests can savor a variety of exquisite wines throughout their meal.
Remember to plan well in advance to secure a spot in this exclusive dining venue for an unforgettable evening that promises to be one of the most enjoyable experiences on the island.
Number Ten ($-$$)
Number Ten, nestled in downtown Bonaire, is a refreshing escape from the island’s heat, offering an air-conditioned, stylish space perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a coffee break.
The restaurant’s modern and inviting decor creates a comfortable atmosphere for diners. Its menu is a delight, especially renowned for delicious bagels and the standout mushroom toast, reflecting the kitchen’s flair for combining traditional and innovative flavors.
Coffee enthusiasts will find their haven here, with the coffee noted for its exceptional quality. Overall, Number Ten presents itself as a trendy, comfortable spot, ideal for those seeking a cool environment and a taste of Bonaire’s culinary diversity.
Brass Boer ($$$$)
Brass Boer, recognized as the top restaurant in the Caribbean, offers a remarkable dining experience in Bonaire Island.
Located within Delfins Beach Resort, it boasts stunning waterfront views, making it essential for diners to secure a table with a view when booking. The elegant setting perfectly complements the culinary delights.
The menu at Brass Boer is a fusion of traditional dishes and innovative trends, featuring a multi-course dinner with two options: the standard menu with well-prepared traditional dishes, and the ‘Surprise Me Chef’s’ menu, filled with avant-garde flavors.
My BEST tip? If you’re dining with another person, one should do the “surprise me” menu and the other should order a la carte. Then SHARE.
The “surprise me” menu is fun. It has unique aspects like watching bread rise at the table and a dessert menu that explores a range of flavors from sweet to savory highlight the restaurant’s creative approach. Brass Boer’s combination of scenic location and inventive cuisine makes it an unmissable destination for any visitor to Bonaire Island.
Make sure you make a reservation and time it with sunset with a table right along the water.
Foodies Bonaire ($$-$$$)
Foodies in Bonaire Island is a local favorite, renowned for its exceptional sampler platter. At $40 per person, this platter is a culinary highlight, offering a taste of the best on the menu, including the standout tuna tataki and beef skewers with truffle butter sauce.
The restaurant, situated with a view of the picturesque Sorobon Lagoon Bay, provides diners with a scenic backdrop, enhancing the overall dining experience. Foodies’ combination of delicious cuisine and beautiful location makes it an essential visit for anyone on Bonaire Island, promising a memorable meal in a stunning setting.
A reservation is a must so you can grab a table that has a view out to Lac Bay.
Caribe Food Truck ($)
The Caribe Food Truck, a popular spot on Bonaire Island, is known for its exceptional Catch of the Day wrap.
Easily spotted by its vibrant yellow color near Jibe City and the Hangout Beach Bar, it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The wrap, is A MUST. Grab one, sit along the water and enjoy one of the cheapest (and best) eats on the island.
Bagel and Bloom ($-$$)
Bagel and Bloom on Bonaire Island is a standout choice for breakfast and lunch, particularly known for its air-conditioned comfort in the tropical climate. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal.
Among its menu offerings, the avocado toast is a highlight, described as both massive and delicious. Additionally, Bagel and Bloom serves quality coffee, making it a favorite among coffee lovers.
This combination of a cool environment, tasty food, and great coffee positions Bagel and Bloom as a must-visit destination in downtown Bonaire for a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.
Melisa Sailing ($$$-$$$$)
Melissa Sailing in Bonaire offers an unforgettable combination of a scenic boat tour and dining experience. The adventure begins at 5:15 PM, and guests are advised to arrive early to ensure they don’t miss the departure.
The sail provides stunning sunset views of Bonaire, making it a worthwhile experience even for those primarily there for the scenery.
Guests are recommended to check the boat’s sailing direction to choose the best side for views, ideally facing the island on departure and the sunset when it occurs.
Comfort is key, with the boat decked out in cozy cushions and carpets for a relaxing experience. The meal, served in courses at the seating area, is enjoyable but plays a secondary role to the sailing experience.
Melissa Sailing stands out as a must-try in Bonaire, offering a unique blend of serene sailing and dining against a backdrop of breathtaking views.
Grocery stores and wine stores
Don’t want to eat out every meal or don’t want to break the bank? Go to a grocery store!
Unlike other islands I travel to, Bonaire has tons of fresh produce at reasonable prices (given it’s an island). I love shopping at Van Den Tweel for all groceries and Bottles for wine.
But what else is there?
Bonaire has a number of grocery stores and supermarkets that cater to the needs of both locals and visitors. These stores typically offer a wide range of food, household items, and personal care products.
Some of the most popular grocery stores in Bonaire include:
- Warehouse Bonaire: A large supermarket that offers a wide selection of groceries, household items, and personal care products.
- Super Foods: A grocery store that offers a range of products, including fresh produce, dairy, meats, and baked goods.
- Warehouse Plus: A large supermarket that offers a wide selection of groceries, household items, and personal care products, as well as a pharmacy and a post office.
- Van den Tweel: A popular supermarket chain that offers a range of groceries, household items, and personal care products.
Bottom Line
Bonaire is a fantastic island for dining out. While there are few “cheap eats” options, you can expect a great atmosphere, beautiful decor, and delicious fresh food.
Want to know about some of the TOP things to do on this island? Read on!