If dishes like garlicky grilled octopus, spicy lamb sausage, or ginger and honey duck magret pique your fancy, check out the Bohemian in Noord. Enter the garden courtyard and find yourself seated under a beautiful jungle canopy complete with a stage for live music every night and an expansive outdoor bar. This is a great place to take friends and family as the atmosphere is sure to impress.

Brunch or dinner, you can’t go wrong at Bistro de Suikertuin with its charming rustic interior and relaxing outdoor patio. The unlimited champagne brunch is definitely not to be missed, its a really fun experience where you order one small dish at a time, as many as you like! Their dinner is equally good and full of local flavor like Keshi Yena, chicken curry, as well as Dutch specialties.

My favorite hang-out spot on the island, hands down. The freshest fish, the best cocktails, and it’s all right on the beach. I seriously can’t say enough about this place. I prefer to eat at their bar, but the restaurant at the end of the pier, Pelican’s Nest, is also delicious and a perfect place to catch the sunset. Get Gary’s delight, lightly battered grouper fingers served with homemade hot sauce and tartar sauce. Follow that up with some super fresh ceviche or shrimp tacos and you’ve got yourself the perfect meal. Don’t forget to try a cocktail, my favorite is the Hibiscus.. trust me.

After a long day at the beach (and beach bars) you may be in the mood for a pizza. Amore Mio is the place, located a short walk from the beach in Noord, this restaurant specializes in authentic wood fired Neapolitan pizza. Truly the best pizza on the island, my favorite is the Tartufo e Salsiccia. You could get take out, but they actually have a great atmosphere with a chic bar, perfect for people watching on the strip.

Need a break from seafood? I ensure we make reservations at Tandoor every time I visit Aruba. Also in Noord, don’t be put off by the tourist traps around it, this place is the real deal. The staff is very friendly and helpful and if you sit out on the balcony you’ll get a nice breeze and a great view of the busy strip. I always get the lamb saag (mutton saagwala) and a mango lassi.

Perfect family restaurant right on the beach, like tables actually in the sand. The only restaurant that each member of my family can agree on, especially for all-you-can-eat rib night. Check out their site as they have other daily specials and entertainment like karaoke and dancing. It’s overall just a really fun place that doesn’t skimp out on the food quality or service.