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Five local seafood specialties in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are a perfect place to enjoy fresh-as-it-gets seafood! Local catches served at some of the Cayman Islands’ best  restaurants pass practically straight from the fishing boats to the chefs’ hands – ensuring that you will always get the freshest, most flavourful dish. 

Check out our list of seafood dish recommendations in Cayman:

Blackened Mahi Mahi 

Mahi-mahi, also known as the common dolphinfish, is found in Cayman tropical waters. It is similar in flavour to grouper or snapper. When cooked with blackened seasoning, this rather sweet dish makes a delicious, protein-rich option for lunch or dinner. If you decide to pair it with wine, we’d recommend you choose a light, aromatic white, which should match mahi-mahi’s delicate taste.

Recommended restaurant: Saltwater Grill

At Saltwater Grill, you can enjoy a meal inside the conditioned dining room or embrace alfresco dining in an open-air garden patio all set amidst a modern Caribbean design. Saltwater Grill is renowned for its delicious seafood dishes, including Mahi Mahi.

What’s more, Saltwater Grill bar area offers some of Cayman’s most inventive cocktails – a great meeting place for pre or post-dinner beverages. Book a table today for great drink and food specials.

Conch fritters

If you love seafood in general, you’ll love conch fritters. Conch is a scrumptious shellfish, native to the Caribbean and beloved in Cayman! Conch fritters are great as an appetiser, finger food, or as a very tasty hors d’oeuvre to accompany your favourite tropical drink!

Recommended restaurant: Guy Harvey’s Boathouse Grill

Overlooking George Town’s stunning harbour, The Boathouse Grill offers a superb mix of Caribbean and International cuisine, with a focus on fresh, sustainable seafood including selections harvested from local waters. Enjoy a perfect sunset, nibbling on Conch fritters and basking in the views.

Book a table now for spectacular oceanfront dining and breathtaking views.

Mussels in red sauce

It’s time to mussel up! The quick-cooking shellfish is a great option if you’re looking for an elegant but uncomplicated meal. There are so many ways to serve mussels, but an all-time favourite are certainly mussels in red tomato sauce. The slightly acidic tomato sauce perfectly compliments mussels sweetness, making this simple dish bursting with flavour.

Recommended restaurant: The White Whale Pub & Ale

Located on the waterfront in the heart of the action, The White Whale serves locally brewed beer and delicious small bites. House specialties include fresh ceviche and mussels, as well as bar favourites such as crab cakes and conch fritters. Book a table to unwind and watch the sunset after a long day.

Thai red snapper

Like most seafood, red snapper can be quite a healthy choice. Snapper is particularly tasty when served with Thai flavours, making the dish sweet, sour and tangy! 

Recommended restaurant: Mizu Asian Bistro & Bar

Mizu is a stylish Asian-inspired restaurant and bar focused on finely tuned flavours and fresh, local ingredients for an authentic Pan-Asian menu. Located waterfront at Camana Bay, dine in Mizu’s intricate Asian-inspired interior or sit at the open sushi bar and watch the chefs carefully prepare your roll. Book a table now to experience Asian-fusion cuisine and some of the best cocktails on the island.

Seafood Grill 

If you want to try it all, we highly recommend a Seafood Grill. This dish is an absolute feast for the senses, with various flavors and textures that will leave you satisfied and craving more. 

Recommended restaurant: Saltwater Grill

A lobster tail, giant prawn, scallops, calamari, blackened mahi, and shrimp are all expertly cooked to perfection and served alongside roasted potato and sautéed vegetables that perfectly complement the seafood. Each bite is packed with juicy, succulent goodness that will impress even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal, the Saltwater Grill is an excellent choice you won’t regret.

Book a table today for great drink and food specials.

Special Mention: Seafood by the Bay 

If you want a unique and delicious dining experience, we recommend Seafood by the Bay. This weekly event occurs every Thursday at 5pm at the Waterfront Urban Diner. It features an impressive array of fresh seafood dishes and a selection of fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails. From succulent shrimp to delectable cayman mahi bites, you’ll be treated to some of the best seafood around while enjoying stunning waterfront views. Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, Seafood by the Bay is a must-try.

Book a table today for an event that will surely leave your taste buds satisfied and your stomach full.

You can’t go wrong with seafood in Cayman, so we’re sure you’ll have a great dining experience at each of these hand-picked locations. 
What’s more, all of the restaurants offer Cayman’s most popular rewards program for foodies, the Bite Club loyalty program! Simply download the app from Google Play Store or App Store and collect points at every visit. The more you visit a participating Bite Club restaurant, the more points you collect, and the more you can save on your next visit.

Join Bite Club

Download the Bite Club app today!