Taste of Paradise: Top 5 US Virgin Islands Food & Drink

Visiting the US Virgin Islands? You’re in for a treat, and that includes the delicious food and refreshing drinks! So, forget the typical tourist traps. Let’s explore the culinary side, that can truly make your visit unforgettable, of St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas. We’re talking about mouth-watering dishes and beverages that’ll have you thinking about island life long after you’ve returned home. Get your taste buds ready for some fantastic island flavors! Plus, learning a bit more about these treasures will makes your trip way more memorable.

#1: Callaloo Soup – A Taste of History

First up, there is Callaloo Soup! It’s more than just a soup; it is genuinely a bowl of island heritage. This leafy soup, whose history shows West African roots, usually showcases callaloo greens (similar to spinach), okra, coconut milk, and a variety of meats or seafood. What makes it extra awesome? Everyone seemingly has their version! cooks its version, So you’ll discover little twists depending on who makes it.

Imagine a warm, comforting bowl on a breezy day. The creamy coconut milk mixes with the earthy greens. Bits of crab or salt pork add a savory punch. It is like getting a warm hug from the islands themselves! Now, I once had Callaloo Soup at a tiny restaurant in St. Croix, it was, apparently called “The Callaloo Pot.” It came topped with a single, perfectly fried dumpling. Seriously, it changed my entire outlook on soup! Anyway, I recommend seeking out those small, local spots for a great, and even more authentic, taste.

#2: Fungi – The Cornmeal Masterpiece

Next, there’s Fungi, (pronounced “foon-ji”). This one, it is almost always a crowd-pleaser! So, it’s basically a savory cornmeal dish. Often compared to polenta or grits. You know, It’s certainly a great and classic side that pops up everywhere! Think creamy, slightly dense cornmeal. It’s flavored up with okra and butter, often served alongside stewed meats, fish, or veggies. It’s the sort of food that’s really humble, yet unbelievably satisfying. You might ask why cornmeal is so tasty! so tasty. Well, it is because its the base in lots of cooking and also it has a great earthy flavour to begin with.

Fungi works as, usually, an amazing flavor absorber, complementing nearly anything you pair it with. One time, I sampled it with some stewed saltfish at a food fair on St. Thomas. The contrast, like, between the salty fish and creamy cornmeal? Perfect! When you order Fungi, prepare for a hearty helping. It will likely fill you up and make you ready for some exploring or beach lounging!

#3: Conch Fritters – Crispy, Golden Goodness

Ah, Conch Fritters: those tiny, golden bites of happiness that make for the perfect snack. Ground conch (a type of sea snail). It is usually mixed with a flavorful batter and fried to a delicious, golden crisp. This, it goes well with a spicy mayo or a tangy dipping sauce, I am serious. Plus, you can find conch fritters just about everywhere: beachside shacks to fancy restaurants, so, its pretty common here! What sets them apart is seemingly the skill in preparing them. You, for sure, want the fritters crunchy on the outside and tender inside. tender inside. They also have an unique taste to them that stands out from regular meals!

They should be light and airy, not overly greasy, to be awesome! A few years back, while wandering around St. John, I found a beach bar that made unbelievable conch fritters. Crispy, well-seasoned, and oh-so-tasty with an ice-cold local beer, that made for the great beach day! Seek out those fritters during happy hour and just enjoy the views. You’ll love them.

#4: Cruzan Rum – The Spirit of St. Croix

Okay, you can’t talk about the US Virgin Islands without a shout-out to Cruzan Rum! It is the signature spirit of St. Croix! It’s been crafted by the Nelthropp family for generations! Visiting the Cruzan Rum distillery is like, a great experience where you can, naturally, sample their lineup, that might range from the light and smooth white rum. Plus there are all sorts of flavored varieties. From the classic dark rum to the single barrel expressions for serious rum aficionados! Take the tour, it might teach you some may teach the rich history behind the making of this popular island spirit!

Now, my preferred way to enjoy Cruzan Rum involves sipping it in a simple cocktail on a balcony. One time I saw the water at Cane Bay in St. Croix glow! Mixing it into a Dark ‘n’ Stormy (Cruzan Dark Rum with ginger beer and a lime wedge) truly hit the spot. Or sample it neat so you appreciate the unique flavor. No matter how you have fun with it, experiencing Cruzan Rum can surely be essential to soaking up the island vibes!

#5: Bushwacker – The Ultimate Island Cocktail

Finally, there is the Bushwacker. The “It” drink to try if you’re wanting to sip an adult milkshake on the beach! Said to have been made first on St. Thomas at the bar, named, “Whiskey’s Landing”, Bushwackers are made with a mix of dark rum, coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua), chocolate liqueur, cream of coconut, and milk, all mixed until very smooth and, frequently, served with a drizzle of chocolate syrup! Yeah it really taste like a dessert, in other words. Some bars seemingly include their own twist on this treat by adding, sometimes, amaretto or a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Keep in mind, though: these could be pretty rich. One Bushwacker would, definitely, be sufficient if you plan on continuing to bask in the Caribbean sun all day. During one of my stays to St. Thomas, I was at a waterfront spot! Soaking up that sun. That I was introduced to this famous, yet so tempting, drink by one of the locals. Yeah, its great chilling out, watching the sail boats pass by, so, make a point of grabbing a tasty beverage!. Just one word of advice: pace yourself with Bushwackers! You won’t You won’t regret.