If you’re planning a trip to St. John and looking for the best restaurants in Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, you’re in for a treat. This lively harbor town is not only the gateway to stunning beaches and outdoor adventures—it’s also one of the top dining destinations in the Caribbean. From casual beach bars to refined dinner spots with global flavor influences, Cruz Bay’s restaurant scene offers something for every palate and occasion.
Here’s your complete guide to the must-visit restaurants in Cruz Bay, including links to menus, websites, and more.
Best Restaurants in Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Breakfast & Brunch — Start Your Day Right
Cruz Bay Landing
A local favorite just steps from the ferry dock, Cruz Bay Landing combines classic breakfast fare with hearty island favorites. It’s been recommended by travelers as one of the best spots for morning coffee and breakfast before exploring the island.
Good for: Breakfast burritos, omelets, pancakes, casual outdoor dining.
Sun Dog Cafe
Sun Dog Café offers open-air courtyard dining in the heart of Mongoose Junction. It’s known for its diverse breakfast and brunch menu, including vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus excellent coffee and cocktails later in the day.
Good for: Brunch, outdoor lunch, casual dinners.
Sam & Jack’s Deli
For something quick, delicious, and local, Sam & Jack’s Deli serves great sandwiches, salads, and desserts—perfect to grab and take to the beach or enjoy with a drink in town.
Good for: Light lunch, take-out sandwiches, sweet treats.
Casual & Waterfront Dining — Lunch with a View
The Beach Bar
Set right on the beach at Wharfside Village, The Beach Bar is famous for tropical cocktails (think Painkillers and Rum Punch), juicy burgers, seafood baskets, and vibrant sunsets over Cruz Bay. Its lively atmosphere makes it perfect for lunch or afternoon drinks after a day at the beach.
Good for: Lunch, beach views, happy hour.
High Tide
Just a few steps from the ferry dock, High Tide serves breakfast through dinner with outstanding harbor views. It’s a go-to for fresh seafood like mahi-mahi sandwiches, conch fritters, sushi rolls, and island classics.
Good for: Lunch, casual dinner, cocktails with a sunset view.
The Roti King
This highly rated food truck offers delicious Caribbean rotis that locals and visitors rave about. It’s a must-try for lunch if you want a quick, budget-friendly meal with big flavor.
Good for: Street-style Caribbean food, casual bites.
Dinner & Special Evenings — Best Restaurants in Cruz Bay
18°64° The Restaurant
Located in Mongoose Junction, 18°64° serves fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, sushi, and seasonal specialties in a stylish yet relaxed setting. Perfect for a night out after exploring the town.
🔗 Website: https://1864therestaurant.com/
Good for: Seafood dinners, raw bar, cocktails.
Extra Virgin Bistro
A standout among the best restaurants in Cruz Bay, Extra Virgin Bistro focuses on Mediterranean-inspired dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s ideal for fine dining or a romantic dinner.
🔗 Website: https://www.extravirginbistro.com/
Good for: Dinner, upscale dining, wine pairing.
La Tapa Plage
La Tapa has earned a reputation for its Mediterranean and Spanish-inspired menu, now served in a beautiful beachside location right in Cruz Bay. Expect fresh seafood, tapas, and an intimate dining vibe.
🔗 Website: https://www.latapastjohn.com/
Good for: Tapas, beachside dinner, European-inspired cuisine.
The Lime Inn
A long-time Cruz Bay favorite, The Lime Inn serves classic Caribbean cuisine and seafood with Caribbean flair. It’s a perfect spot for dinner after a day of snorkeling and beach time.
🔗 Website: http://www.thelimeinn.com/
Good for: Dinner, Caribbean flavors, casual fine dining.
Local Favorites & Hidden Gems
The Longboard
A local favorite for laid-back meals and craft cocktails, The Longboard blends island vibes with creative comfort food—great for a casual dinner or evening drinks.
Good for: Casual dinner, inventive cocktails, chill vibe.
The Windmill Bar
Loved for both food and one of the best sunset views in Cruz Bay, The Windmill Bar is a great choice for dinner with a scenic backdrop. Travelers often recommend it for its relaxed atmosphere and live music.
Good for: Sunset views, casual eats, live music.
Uncle Joe’s Barbecue
Barbeque
If you’re craving smoky BBQ, Uncle Joe’s serves up ribs, grilled chicken, and classic sides in an outdoor setting—perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Good for: BBQ, outdoor eats, casual dining.
Additional Cruz Bay Spots to Explore
- Downtown Sips – Coffee by day and wine bar by evening.
- Coco Jim’s Cafe – Smoothies and light bites.
- Ronnie’s Pizza an Mo – Pizza and casual meals.
- Cafe Roma – Classic Italian fare.
- Wharfside Cafe – Casual Mexican in Wharfside Village.
Tips for Dining in Cruz Bay
- Many of the best restaurants in Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands become busy in high season (December–April), so dinner reservations are recommended for places like Extra Virgin Bistro, La Tapa Plage, and 18°64°.
- Expect fresh seafood and Caribbean-flavored dishes across menus—conch fritters, grilled mahi-mahi, jerk-spiced dishes, and tropical cocktails are island favorites.
- Outdoor and waterfront dining is part of the experience—sunset dinner with a harbor view is one of Cruz Bay’s highlights.
Whether you’re looking for casual beachfront eats, local favorites, or fine dining with island flair, Cruz Bay’s restaurant scene delivers unforgettable meals and vibrant local culture alongside every bite. 🌴🍷