
A ROAD TRIP AROUND
Visiting Sicily, the island right off the boot of Italy was undoubtedly, one of my favorite vacations. The deep history dating back to the beginning of known human societal existence, it’s critical location in the Mediterranean as a strategic stronghold, this 170 mile Long Island, has a coastal road that is about 922 miles long. It is triangular in shape and the symbol is a Trinacria, with lores about using a three-legged Medusa as protection, based on the three corners. With wild verdant coastlines and an active volcano, UNESCO world heritage sites all over, especially The Valley of the Temples, it is easy to spend months there and still miss things. The food, wine and stunning vistas are undoubtedly some of the best in the world.
I hope this page helps you plan your trip.
XO, Michelle

When you visit SICILY, you quickly realize—
Ancient civilizations over thousands of years have made their mark on Sicily food, architecture and culture. Seeing the historical influences in person is so transformative. We have been to other cities all over Europe, but the impression that Sicily leaves is unlike those I have felt in other places. Maybe it’s because I have Sicilian and Campanian roots, but the deep influence of ancient civilizations are woven into the fabric of this lively and beautiful place. Greeks, Phoenicians, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, and other European powers have left their marks, the island has been a crossroads of cultures and empires. As an American with history beginning in Columbus date 1492, and 1620 Puritans, Sicily’s ancient history goes back thousands upon thousands of years from around 1300 BC. At one point in history Syracuse was the most populous Greek city. The more we learn about the Greeks, the more in awe we are of them as well. Through tyrants and conquerors, the mafia and facists, Sicily has managed to hold the course and become a top travel destination for tourists from around the world. We have learned like any former corrupt countries, there is a thin veil between the old days and the new, but we always felt safe everywhere we went. This strategic and historically valuable piece of land is a rugged and gorgeous place, but very hot in the summer, when prices are highest and there are many people. We recommend visiting in spring or fall. The must see places are definitely worth it, but do not undervalues some of the quieter places to really get a sense of what the island life there is about, without tourists and all the hoopla.
RENTAL CAR, ZTLs and PRESERVING RELATIONSHIPS
Definitely rent from a well-known company with good reviews in Sicily. Pick the smallest car you can that fits your bags in the boot with the cover over them, so that if you have to part somewhere with your luggage in the car it is hidden and out of sight. Each old town has a ZTL section where tourist vehicles are not allowed to pass. Even if you see the signs say “aprire” open—do not trust it. You may get a ticket anyway. Just do not enter the ZTLs no matter what your hotel says. If you use the apps, there are catches to using them properly and it’s all in Italian, to keep you guessing we assume. We were inclined to think that they make it difficult so that people make mistakes and they can charge fines anyway. Your GPS will send you into crazy places so before you get close to the old towns or your hotels, which are most likely in these cool areas of these cities—pull over and look at the roads. Some are just alleys and some say “via” or road when it is just a walking alley, sometimes with steps. It can get frustrating for the driver, so pull over, get your bearings and find parking outside the ZTL, which means walking to your hotel with your bags, or taking a taxi. Ask the taxi before hand how much it is to go from A to B before you commit to the ride.
DAILY PLANNING
Most of your time will be spent exploring, so bring along very comfortable clothes and sun cover. Some villas are high up in the hills and tricky to get to for the drivers, so we usually bring all essentials for the day with us when we leave every day, including a change of clothes for dinner. Beaches have bathrooms and changing areas usually, so plan for those scenarios. Trekking back up to the villa is time consuming or car, which we recommend leaving parked while you are in a city. Everything is very walkable. So, make sure everyone has everything they need for the entire day, depending on how hard or far it is to get back to the villa. Sunset is an important time in Sicily. We usually plan for sunset and to have an apertivo, and make sure you have reservations for dinner. People dress up in Sicily, so slouchy American clothes may leave you wishing you up’d your game a little. People look beautiful and dressed, so putting a couple fancier things in your bag is a good idea.
Be you. This is how we roll….we are not very fancy, but there is ample room for big hats long sun dresses and linen, for men and women. Enjoy the festive fashion of the island.

WHY SICILY?
It is not for everyone and can be a little tricky to plan your travel with a lot of logistics if you are doing a road trip. The ZTLs make picking places to stay and parking a little challenging.
We suggest picking a side instead of doing the whole island. With 7-14 days, you can do 1/2 the coast of one side in a calm and unhurried way, with a couple stays as home bases and a few day trips.
A 2 night stay can be hectic, and a 4 night stay too long in some places. Plan accordingly. Most reasonable stays for 2-3 people are about 100-150 €, more for upscale locations, views, pools and or amenities.
Many towns are built into cliffs so make sure you are in tip top shape before going. Walk up hills and stairs to get yourself ready for 8 hours of walking in the sun. Water is not enough either, bring some electrolyte tabs with you. Warm weather can be exhausting so keep yourself healthy.
Celebrate "slow food" and "island time" to stop hectic lifestyles. Italians take hours to savor meals and conversations, so service is slow, be polite when you ask for something and if you have a time contraint, you can ask if it is possible to have a meal in that time. They may send you to someone else or seat you, knowing this. Americans are always in a rush.
Coffee is not to be taken away, but to order and drank in the bar or cafe. Bars serve coffee. Cappuccino is a morning drink in Sicily, so if you want to play along, they chuckle a little if you order it after noon time.
Italian Americans who boast about being Italian are a thing there…and from what we could tell the New York and New Jersey Italians kind of have a laughable reputation there, so keep in mind the “Tony Soprano-esque, get the mortadell and pick up the rigot” people exist and make the Italians cringe. I don’t blame them.
We found out that Worcester and Boston cannoli can hold a candle to the Sicilian ones we tried. Our favorite was in Taormina from Roberto.
TIMING STRATEGIES FOR FLYING:
The Off-Season Advantage Travel between the end of March-May or September-November for lower rates and fewer crowds. Sicily has been in a drought for 5 years, so the rainier spring is probably not very rainy.
Many properties drop prices in the off season. Monitor flight deals for best values and book flexible stays. You are not in your villa or room very often, unless there is weather, so we recommend a simple, clean place that has a washer, so you can revive your clothing and pack less.
GETTING AROUND
Rent a car: Sicily is hilly, and taxis add up fast, so if you can afford a rental, do it. We recommend well-known companies to rent from. Expect $60-80€/day depending on the car you want. Get a small SUV and remember that luggage has to fit. Groups may want a bigger car to fit more people.
Plan well: Your rental driver wants to enjoy vacation too. Plan excursions ahead of time and google tips about visiting. Many people write and review, so follow popular advice and tips about roads and GPS issues. Do not always trust your GPS. It is worse in the old towns than in the US.
WE HOPE YOU LIKE FISH AND PASTA:
Pasta and fish are the mainstays of Sicily, so try to get meat when you can. On a two week trip for non-fish eaters, pasta and pizza can make you scream “basta!” Try as many different things as possible.
Lunch menus can be as extravagant as dinner, so try to find sandwiches or cafes with pinnini or meat and cheese plates for smaller meals and cheaper options.
Dinner is served in 4 courses at every restaurant, an antipasto, primi, second or main, with dolce, dessert and coffee. They don’t serve the pasta with the protein. We felt like we were eating too much at every meal, so maybe share first course and apps, or avoid one or the other.
EXPERIENCES:
Take a charter off the coast in Palermo or around the coastal towns. They are offered everywhere.
The Valley of The Temples, Agrigento
The Scalle dei Turchi, Agrigento
The ancient city of Ortigia, walking the maze of streets in the daytime or definitely in the cool air at night after dinner to the square.
Capuccini Crypt, Palermo, not for the faint of heart
ISLAND TIME IN TORTOLA IS AKIN TO THESE 8 JAPANESE TECHNIQUES:
IKIGAI: Discover your purpose in life. Determine the reason you wake up each morning. Choose something that aligns with your strengths, passions, and the needs of the world. This is what gives life meaning.
KAIZEN: Focus on small improvements every day. You don't have to do everything at once, just aim to make progress little by little.
HARA HACHI BU: Practice mindful eating and moderation. Eat until you're 80% full and you'll feel more energized throughout the day.
GANBARU: Be patient and calm when it comes to expecting results of something you did. Try to do the best that can be done.
WABI-SABI: Find peace in imperfection. Recognize that nothing in life is perfect, including yourself and others. Instead of striving for flawlessness, find joy in the imperfections that make life unique.
KAKEIBO: Make a budget and stick to it. When you have your finances in order, you'll feel less stressed and more motivated to tackle your other goals.
SHOSHIN: Approach tasks with a beginner's mindset. Don't worry about being perfect or having all the answers. Just be open to learning and trying new things.
SHININ-YOKU: Spend time in nature - it's scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve your mood. Take a walk on the beach, breathe in fresh sea air, and let nature recharge you.

PACKING for the bvi
There is no reason to over pack for this trip. It is a long day of travel and you will not want to be lugging around more than you need. Tortola is a very relaxed place and the regulars are all relaxed too. If you are over dressed, you kind of look like you don’t have the inside track, so relax and pack just what you will need. Most restaurants have people sitting with feet in the sand or just plain sandy feet. No worries. Nobody cares. Actually, the more confident you are in your “beach presence”, the more you will enjoy not giving a shit. ; ) You’ll know when cleaning your feet is appropriate!
Pack ONLY What You Know You’ll Wear + use
Bring only tried and true favorites that you know will be comfortable and practical. You will wear these repeatedly and ignore everything else in your suitcase.
Use a Small CARRY-On
Bring a small suitcase, you’ll naturally be mindful of what you pack, they fit in the overhead and are cheaper on the ferry.
avoid waiting for baggage
It takes 15-20 minutes sometimes for luggage to come out in St. Thomas, so a great way to beat the crowd to the taxi is to pack light and zip outside of the airport to your ferry ($) or water taxi ($$$). You can enjoy a cold drink and bite to eat at The Petite Pump Room above the ferry in Charlotte Amalie or one of the nearby restaurants after you check in with your passport and tag your bags for the ferry with “The Bagman”. Tip him well. Remove any valuable items from your carry on. I usually take my laptop out and drag it with me, just to be sure. Sometimes they throw the bags onto the ferry. Avoid well-loved objects and electronics leaving your sight, just to avoid loss or issue. Keep them with you. Common sense for all travel.
WHEN in Doubt, Leave it Out
If there are items that you’re not sure about, don’t pack them. Likely, you won’t miss them. You don’t really need warm clothes or more than one sweatshirt. If you always wear a few outfits because of ease and comfort…those go in first. It is hot there, so fabrics that show sweat or make you hot, think twice. Most villas have washer and dryers. Definitely book one with. Beach towels and your fave items will need a washing after a bit, so consider having a W/D a must.
BASICS items for a bvi trip
Here are some items everyone will want to have on hand.
SPF shirt: At least one long sleeved SPF shirt, just in case. The sun is harsh and I always pack one.
Bring Ziploc Bags: I usually bring 4 large bags and about 6 quart bags. You will need them for all kinds of things. You can order them with your grocery items too, but expensive to just use a few. They are also great for making flat ice packets for the cooler and to put any wet clothing in for the trip home. I stash a few in my back pack or beach bag as well. You will use them!
2-4 Bathing Suits: A must for a 7-10 day beach vacation. That way, you’ll have one to wear while the other is drying.
Workout/walking/hiking Outfit: If you’d like to exercise, you’ll want to take along a workout outfit so you can use the gym in your hotel or participate in a session of beach yoga. This outfit can double as casual wear.
1 Hoodie, Pashmina, Sarong or Sweater: This is nice to have to layer, especially at night or lounging. A sarong can be used on the plane to keep you warm, as a wrap from the sun or cool nights, or a coverup for the beach. I bring a small one and a big one and use them all the time, and also can complete an outfit or disguise one you wore yesterday.
Light Windbreaker: It does rain on and off, so if you can pack a light windbreaker in your bag, why not? Not a must. Most villas have umbrellas to use too. We never take them.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses with UV protection are a must when it comes to your eyes. You will be uncomfortable without them.
Hat: Hats will protect your skin and eyes from the sun, even when your sunblock wears off.
2-3 Tanks or Tees: Tanks and tees are staples.
2-3 Pairs of Shorts: Shorts are cool, comfy, and will work as the base of a casual daytime outfit. If you like rompers or jumpsuits, you can use them to replace shorts/tee sets.
Shoes: Shoes can be bulky and heavy, but having the footwear you’ll need will help you get the most out of your trip. Fly in a pair of sneakers, and pack in your bag a pair of comfortable, lightweight sandals for the town and beach. If I can fit one back up pair, I bring in case something happens. The last think you want to do is run around looking for shoes. There is not much shopping on Tortola, although you can find small boutiques here and there.
Sleeping: Minimalist tip: a couple of extra comfy T-shirts and shorts can be worn to sleep and double as casual wear.
Under things: Undergarments are another necessity. When packing them, think about the cuts and fabrics of the outfits you will be wearing to ensure the underwear work with your outfits. Pro tip: Try them out before you pack.
Socks: I usually pack one extra pair than the one I am wearing. Pack more if you are going to be wearing sneakers or running, etc. We are usually barefoot or in flip flops. Most villas have washer/dryer, but not all. If you are by the water, a lot of things will not dry all the way either, so make sure you leave in the sun and secure. Breezy days send things flying.
Accessories: Keep accessories to a minimum, taking only those you know you’re going to wear. It is hot and why fuss? Most people are earthy surfer types and folks that are over dressed look out of place. This is a casual, surfy vibe. While getting a little cleaned up for dinner in a nice sun dress and dress shirt is nice, most places you can roll in off the beach. If it’s after happy hour, you may want to do a “rinse and hold”.
Jewelry: Avoid bringing any pricey jewelry while beaching in case of loss. Also, we never bring expensive watches or anything with us. No need.
Water bottle: A must for your daily drinking water.
Gear: I pack some first aid and pharmacy items in a bag, including Bacitracin, Band-aids, Immodium, Tums, Advil, Excedrin, Tissues and I keep a little roll of TP, because you never know when you will be out and about and it will be needed.
WATER usage on the island
Conserve water at all times. Tortola’s only water source is the rain and desalinated sea water. Conserve and take only 5 minute showers, lovingly referred to by our Chapman friends as “rinse and hold”. What you do before happy hour if your villa is down low.
Buy big jugs of bottled water to fill our water bottles and avoid lots of small water bottle waste. All trash is your responsibility to sort and bring to the trash pick up areas. The visitor guides in the villa usually tell you where they are. For West End, there is one on Zion Hill Road near the ball field.
Trash
As a rule, we empty trash every day if there are food remaining in it at the villa. It is an island and lots of critters are attracted to trash and fruit. Never leave any food out at all. Nothing. Open bag of chips—-secure tightly and put it in a ziplock bag. Be sure to wipe counters and floors of crumbs and anything sweet.
Ladies
2 Cover Ups: On a beach vacation, you just may be wearing a coverup more than any other item of clothing (except perhaps your bathing suit). Take along one or two that are fashionable enough to pass as dresses so you can walk around town in them if you’d like.
Dressy Outfits: Simple dresses are perfect and easy for a beach vacation. Maxis or long skirts are nice but it can be very hot there even at night, but they do pack a punch and are perfect for day or night. A couple dressy outfit are nice for dinners at restaurants, like Brandywine, Bananakeet, or The Sugar Mill or Long Bay’s 1748.
guys
2-3 SPF Shirts: If you are concerned with sun exposure, long sleeved spf shirts are a must. You will see many people wearing them everywhere. Protect yourself from UV rays.
2-3 Button Ups: A button-up may be considered the masculine equivalent of feminine bathing suit cover-ups. You can easily throw one on with a bathing suit when going to and from the beach. It will also come in handy for semi-formal occasions.
2-3 Shorts: A few nice pairs of shorts to wear pre or post beach out to breakfast or to happy hour and dinner. Most men wear dress shorts out to dinner, even at nicer restaurants.
5-6 T-shirts: Easy peasy.
A Pair of khaki or Prana-like, or linen Pants: Having the versatility to throw on a pair of light weight beach pants if you’d like to is always nice, especially for nice dinners.
ESSENTIALS
Forgetting anything causes a lot of snafu once you arrive. Wasting vacation hours driving around looking for things is very annoying, especially for your designated drivers. Many essentials from home are not available on Tortola. Don’t spend your vacation running around looking for shit you forgot or just thought you would purchase there. There really are only 3-5 full groceries on the island and they are all 20-50 minutes away. If you forget anything, be a champ and call a taxi —take initiative o go out and track it down instead of putting your whole group out.
Cash is needed everywhere and the few ATMs do not always work. Nanny Cay, Cane Garden Bay, Road Town have ATMs. Bring $1000 cash and separate it into 3 different places in your baggage. Never check a bag with cash in it or anything you want to keep as a rule when traveling anywhere. This includes laptops, cameras or any electronics or jewelry. Just don’t do it, ever.
Toothbrush/Toothpaste (easily found but stores are 20 min away, so easily an hour trek)
Reef Safe Sunblock - help protect the marine life (easily found)
Deodorant (easily found)
Razor *very hard to find
UV protective Lip balm (easily found)
Shampoo/Conditioner (easily found)
Moisturizer is hard to find. Coconut oil to moisturize: coconut oil can be picked up at the grocery store.
Nail polish and remover are impossible to find, so bring a little bit if you think you will need them.
There is one cosmetic store, Hazem Beauty Supply in Road Town hidden behind the Rite Way on Flemming Street. It is pretty urban and carries a few American drug store brands, but do not expect to find any high end cosmetics anywhere.
BRING your own feminine products. Hard to find and you will not find your brands.
Tech
remote battery pack
phone + charger
laptop/tablet + charger
plugs are US plugs
TORTOLA, Our 6 favorite beaches
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Smugglers Beach, West End
Two of the coolest little shacks in the Caribbean, Nigel’s and Patricia’s are found at Smugglers Cove. A lovely, hard to get to beach. Sometimes rocky to enter, depending on sand shifts. One of our favorite beaches. Each shack has a portie hidden behind, but no formal facilities. Cash only.
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Long Bay Beach, West End
Long Bay Beach and Belmont are our favorite places to alternate days lounging in the sand or swimming. The resort has a wonderful beach bar for lunch and cold cocktails and beers. Our absolute favorite place to spend the majority of time. Shaded sand behind the beach bar is a nice space from sun. Note: There are 2 Long Bays.
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Cane Garden Bay
A very busy and touristy beach that has all the amenities. We only go here when there are no cruise ships in port. Lounge chairs are available. Indigo Beach Bar is one of our favorite place for happy hour and sunset too. Vishaal who runs it is wonderful.
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Josiah's Bay Beach
A long beautiful beach way out at the East End. There is a surf school and you can rent boogie boards. During Dec to Feb there is high surf and a big undertow. The sand is pink-tinged and the water is beautiful clear blue. There are a couple shacks to buy lunch and cold beers. Cash only.
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Trunk Bay Beach, North Side
Trunk Bay, Tortola is on the northern side of the island straight up from Road Town. It is a secluded beach with about 20 newer villas. There is a steep dirt and rock road leading down, so you will need to park at the top out of the way or have a 4WD to navigate down and back up. Most likely you will have the place to yourself or see someone walking their dog. It is gorgeous with super soft sand. No bathrooms. Primitive. Pack a cooler with lunch/drinks and waters if you are going.
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Brewers Bay
The best snorkeling we have found off the beach is at Brewers. If you stay to the left near the lava wall, there are corals and sea life along the reef. There is a little beach bar, Nicoles to grab a cold beer and some food.
Tips When Visiting Tortola Restaurants
Important things you might want to keep in mind when visiting the many best restaurants in Tortola, BVI:
Embrace Island Time: We cannot stress this enough. Island time is real. Life is often laid back and the same can be said for dining in Tortola. Meals take a little longer than you might be used to, especially if you’re ordering fresh seafood. Make reservations when possible especially at popular places. Instead of getting impatient, use this time to soak up the vibes, enjoy the company you’re with, and savour a drink. Be courteous to the staff, as they are all doing their best. Service is not the same level as in the states, so do not expect fast hustling servers. If you are hungry when you arrive, try to order an app and a round of drinks right when you are seated. Many Americans and tourists are very entitled, so do not be those kind of visitors. Talk to your servers, ask their names.
Happy Hour is real: We often pack what we need to go from beach to dinner so we don’t have to go back up the villa. Sometimes that is not possible. Sunset is a destination, so make sure you plan on where to be for happy hour and sunset. If you stay closer down the hill nearer the main coastal road, it is easier to run in for a rinse before dinner.
Carry Cash Always: While many restaurants and cafes in Tortola accept cards, many do not. It’s always a good idea to have cash, especially for smaller places, roadside stalls, or when tipping for excellent service. Most villas have safes, so leave reserve cash, laptops and jewelry in the safe. If there is no safe, be strategic and smart. Always lock doors and windows when you leave as common sense to avoid any incidents that can be avoided.
Reservations: Tortola’s restaurants can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you’ve got your heart set on a particular spot or it’s a special occasion, make a reservation. This ensures you won’t be left waiting or turned away. It can take some time to get from place to place so planning is a must, even for spontaneous people. Also, before you drive across the island, call ahead everywhere you go. Hours are just suggested on the island. For real.
Check Facebook for Updates: Many Tortola restaurants are active on Facebook. It’s a good platform to check for any changes in opening times, daily or weekly specials, and any upcoming events or themed nights they might be hosting. With the ever-evolving landscape of island events and special dishes, Facebook is a reliable way to stay in the loop.
Engage with Locals: Locals often have the best recommendations for hidden gems or dishes to try! Whether you’re looking for the best conch fritters or a romantic spot for sunset views, a local’s advice can add that special touch to your experience visiting the best restaurants in Tortola. Talk to everyone. It makes getting connected to the island so much more meaningful. Now people know us, because we take the time to chat and catch up.
Share on social media: Local restaurants and businesses benefit so much from your photos and stories. Share and tag them!
TORTOLA, Our favorite restaurants
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1748 & Johnny's Beach Bar, Long Bay Resort
The restaurant at brand-new, delightfully laid-back boutique resort rebuilt after Irma in 2017, with 20 whitewashed suites opening directly onto the beach, with a spa and hillside rooms to follow. A thatched cocktail bar called Johnny’s and an open-air restaurant, Long Bay Resort has a wonderful garden to table practice, island fusion and a great sushi bar. The beach bar offers healthy lunch choices and this place is one of our favorite hangs day or night, especially when Steven or Clevon are working. The restaurant is more upscale and pricey, but there are lesser priced options. Definitely the place to splurge. The green curry shrimp are delicious. Call to book a rez at 1748.
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Indigo Beach House
Indigo Beach House is one of our favorite places for happy hour and sunset too. The creative food menu is delicious and the specialty cocktails are made with love. Many locals have their seat at the bar and Vishaal knows everyone in town. Order the cauliflower and tacos and a bunch of stuff to share. You will want to taste it all. A great place for sunset and also places you at Cane for some nightlife if you are looking for it. Vishaal who runs it is wonderful. Make rez from FB page or WhatsApp Vishaal. +1 284-343-5503 *CLOSED on Mondays
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Nigel's at Smugglers
Nigel is the Mayor of Smugglers. Nestled right in the tree cover that is growing back after Irma, this is one of our favorite places to hang out. He makes a mean painkiller and his food is outstanding. Don’t miss the Bush Dog. You will eat here a few times on your trip. Take it in. No pretense, just perfect. *No facilities. There is a porto.
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Patricia's Beach Bar @ Smugglers
While Patricia’s Beach Bar is the perfect shack on the beach under the palms. She fills the bellies of everyone that goes down to Smugglers because her BBQ in the air. She ends service right before sunset, so if you are in West End…you know she and her crew will be there grillin’ for you. Tip her well. She’s magical. *No facilities. There is a porto.
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Bananakeet at Heritage Inn
A wonderful place to go for happy hour and sunset or a lovely upscale dinner on the cliffside vantage point overlooking the channel between Tortola and Jost Van Dyke. The food is fantastic and the menu is available online to view ahead of time. The switchbacks are tight and steep and the parking tight, but so worth the views. A nice covered veranda works well if there is a little rain too. You may just see a rainbow. Call to book a rez.
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The Sugar Mill
The Sugar Mill restaurant is in an old plantation building right on the water in a small boutique resort that harkens back the way vacationers spent a holiday in the Caribbean decades ago. Filled with nostalgia and also a dark past of slavery, the stones tell stories of history in what is a transformed space with so much raw character. Known for risotto, you must order some as a side dish, but the Champagne scallops are not to be missed. Upscale. Book a rez.
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Omar's Cafe
Located in Soper’s Hole Marina. Go for breakfast. Get the eggs Benny on a bagel with spinach. Great coffee and we are ultimate coffee snobs. We love perfectly roasted and prepared coffee and this is better than most anywhere we have had coffee out. Locate on the water in Soper’s Hole, get there on the early side or you will have to wait. It is worth it. The marina and shops are lovely. (Pusser’s is a corp chain, we avoid eating there.)
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Omar's @ Sand Spit
Omar's always has a diverse vibe, and in their new place just at the bridge to Soper’s is "Omar's @ Sand Spit". The love for spicy Indian cuisine, the rare low lighting gives a contemporary environment that you don’t find in many places. There is a stage area with live entertainment. No water views or sunsets from here. Delicious food and great vibes. All the boats in port at the Soper’s fill these restaurants at night. Dog friendly outside.
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Omar's Nanny Cay
Indian Fusionfrom breakfast to dinner, Rotis and cool vibes on the water in the marina shops at Nanny Cay. We love Omar’s. Drive all the way around to your right. There is an ATM and a small Rite Way grocery store for provisioning. We love all of the Omar’s places. Left my purse here once and the server kept if safe waiting for me to retrace my steps.
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Paradise Club
Located in Cane Garden Bay, Paradise is a great place for sunset and happy hour. The beers are cold and the food is great. Order the chicken wings. Feet in the sand until the sun goes down with some live music and this place turns into a dance club at night and restaurant upstairs. Many locals hang out here as well so it has a cool vibe. Book a rez for evening dinner.
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Tropical Fusion
Next to Long Bay is Tropical Fusion. We have had some nice meals there but it is never very busy. It is right on the water and a nice place to sit for sunset at the small bar. They had an award winning chef. No vibe really, just basic, we have not been in a while and always feel like we should. Adding it here so know. Poke your head in, it’s been a while. We just don’t understand how they are not learning from Long Bay at least.
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D' Coal Pot
Right on the water in Carrot Bay. The best sunsets in any month, incredible chicken wings and lovely staff that remembers us. Each entree is delicious. We have tried almost everything there. We love it here and return multiple times each trip. Known for local fresh fish and all around delicious Caribbean style food. Make a rez.
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Peg Leg at Nanny Cay
Bear left into Nanny Cay and Peg Leg is all the way at the end, facing St. John and Francis Drake Channel. A lively place where the pirates hang out. Super chill, locals, sailors and those in the know. Off the beaten path for regular tourists or cruise ship people. Basic island menu with daily features. Friday is BBQ night.
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Capriccio di Mare, ROAD TOWN
Traditional Italian cuisine served al fresco under a twinkling canopy of greenery and inside in an intimate setting. Fantastic food and atmosphere. Make a rez and check hours before driving all the way into town. There are 2, Road Town and Hodges Creek East End.
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Capriccio di Mare, Hodges Creek
Just opened at the end of 2024. Delicious traditional Italian cooking right on the marina in Hodges at East End. Worth a stop if you are driving back from Josiah’s Bay Beach, taking the less crazy shore road. There are 2, here and Road Town.
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Brandywine Estate, East End
A very fine dining experience in a truly special place. Anticipate a warm welcome to our little slice of paradise, where great food, beautiful views, a cool breeze and refined ambiance combine to make Brandywine a very unique place. Chef Regis and his wife, Claudine are wonderful. The French influence on the Caribbean food is to die for. This is where our friends Jen and Steve got married. Their photo is on the site. Check site for hours. Rez: +1 (284) 495-2301 or reservations@brandywinerestaurant.com
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Stoutts Lookout
You start seeing family names around the island. Stoutt is one of them. We love stopping at Stoutts on the way to or from wherever to either have a burger and a cold Carib or just a drink to take in the views and the breeze. Stop and chat if it’s not too busy. There are stories to be told. ; )
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The Admiral Pub
It used to be the dive shack that all the crew members from the cats hung out at, but since it’s renovation, it looks more liberated, sadly. We liked the dive vibe. Go there for cheaper eats. Excellent pizza. Right at the beginning of Soper’s on the right. Call before you go, sometimes the cook decides not to work. Island time.
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Quitos
Quito's Gazebo in Cane Garden Bay, founded by Quito in 1983, marks the birthplace of the infectious reggae beat that has captured hearts ever since. Over the years, this iconic establishment has seen numerous iterations, either shaped by human hands or the relentless force of hurricanes. Reggae vibes on Cane. Always a good time. Watch the cruise ship schedule and avoid Cane if ships are in, usually good by 3pm.
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Myetts at Cane
Walk through garden paths that open to on the beach dining, featuring fresh lobster, fish, shrimp, steak, vegetarian, standard pub-ish food. Sunset Happy Hour daily with special drink prices. There is always good music & live Island entertainment several days of the week. Reservations are recommended. Watch the cruise ship schedule and avoid Cane if ships are in, usually good by 3pm. Bring bug spray if you are there at sunset. ; )
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Glenns
Our hidden secret, Glenn’s stuffed shrimp. He is in a little shack next to Myetts near the bathrooms and parking lot. If we spend any beach time in Cane, it is in front of his place, eating orders of the shrimp. I think we may have booked a trip once just to have his shrimp. No web presence at all. We kind of avoid Cane unless we are meeting friends. We go for Indigo and Glenns.
