Grand Cayman is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, particularly when it comes to seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The island’s restaurants offer an incredible variety of flavours, highlighting fresh, local ingredients in ways that are both innovative and true to Cayman Islands’ tradition. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey, highlighting five must-try local dishes, each from a different top restaurant in Grand Cayman. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply looking to explore the island’s cuisine, these dishes will give you a true taste of local food in Grand Cayman at the best eateries.
- Cayman Islands’ conch fritters – Duke’s Seafood & Rib Shack
Duke’s Seafood & Rib Shack is known for its relaxed atmosphere and hearty portions, making it a favourite among locals & visitors alike for some of the best comfort food in Grand Cayman. Located close to the beach, not far from the Ritz Carlton, Duke’s has an exceptional location. One dish that stands out as a true representation of Cayman Islands’ flavours is their delicious conch fritters. Conch, a type of shellfish native to the Caribbean, is a staple in Caymanian cuisine, and Duke’s cayman style conch fritters are some of the best on the island.
The fritters are made by mixing finely chopped conch meat with onions, peppers, and a blend of local spices. The conch mixture is then deep-fried to golden perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, these conch fritters are the perfect appetiser to start your meal at Duke’s. If you’re craving some familiar comfort foods for your tastebuds, to be served alongside your Caribbean classics, try the coconut shrimp or the tasty wings coated in hot sauce. Although shrimp may not be local to Cayman, the coconut shrimp are a vacation must-try at Duke’s. Still hungry? The Caribbean steam pot is one of the best dishes on the whole island, better than any rundown you may try. Pair these dishes with a cold beer or a mudslide for the ultimate Caribbean dining experience in the Cayman Islands.
- Cayman Islands’ seared snapper – Guy Harvey’s Boathouse Grill
Guy Harvey’s Boathouse Grill, located in the heart of George Town, is known for its upscale dining experience with stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. One of the standout dishes on their menu is the seared snapper, which perfectly encapsulates the fresh, vibrant flavours of the Caribbean. It’s even better than a fish fry in our opinion!
Snapper, a popular fish in Caymanian waters, is seared to perfection, giving it a crisp exterior while keeping the flesh tender and moist. It’s served with baby potatoes and sautéed green beans, plus a drizzle of citrus-infused sauce that enhances the natural flavour of the fish. This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves fresh Cayman style seafood and is looking to experience a sophisticated take on a local Cayman Islands favourite.
For another local favourite at Guy Harvey’s, the fishcakes are an elevated version of a British classic. Tender grouper, snapper & salmon is crusted in panko and crisped to perfection. Grouper, served in many caribbean dishes, is mild yet distinct in flavour, adding to the texture & sweeter notes of the fishcakes. The famous Boathouse ceviche is also worth ordering for a true taste of the Cayman Islands. Ceviche pairs so well with the many distinctive options from the wine list. Don’t miss out on trying grouper, snapper & the fresh catch of the day to tickle even the most discerning taste buds in Grand Cayman!
- Warrior bowl with jerk chicken – Fresh Kitchen & Coffee
Fresh Kitchen & Coffee is a haven for health-conscious diners in the Cayman Islands, offering dishes that are as nourishing as they are delicious. A star on their menu is the Warrior Bowl with Jamaican jerk chicken, a dish that brings together Caribbean flavours with a focus on wholesome ingredients. It’s a Cayman style protein bowl!
The Warrior Bowl features a base of brown rice and quinoa, topped with specially seasoned Jamaican jerk chicken, which is marinated and grilled to capture the authentic smoky, spicy flavours of Caribbean jerk. It’s a spice rub from Jamaica that’s better than any hot sauce you’ve had! Similar to allspice, jerk seasoning is so addictive, there’s no doubt you’ll be coming back for more! The bowl is loaded with an array of fresh vegetables, including avocado, roasted yams (similar in flavour to cassava), and greens, all drizzled with a tangy lime dressing. This dish is the perfect blend of bold Caymanian & Jamaican flavours and balanced nutrition, making it a top choice for a hearty, yet healthy, meal.
- Cayman Islands’ blackened mahi – Craft Food & Beverage Co.
Craft F&B Co., located on West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach, is well-known for its creative and flavorful dishes in the Cayman Islands. One of the highlights of their menu, a caymanian favourite, is the blackened mahi, a dish that showcases the restaurant’s ability to elevate local ingredients with a modern twist.
Mahi-mahi, a fish known for its firm texture and mild flavour, is seasoned with a blend of spices before being pan-seared to create a beautifully blackened crust. It’s served with baby bok choy, bulgur salad and a perfectly sweet mango butter sauce, which add a sweet and tangy contrast to the spiciness of the fish. Blackened mahi-mahi is a traditional favourite at Caribbean fish-fry locations, so a great choice for something truly locally inspired. This dish is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the combination of bold Caribbean flavours and contemporary culinary techniques.
- Coconut steamed mussels – Saltwater Grill
Saltwater Grill is also located on West Bay Road, and offers an elevated yet relaxed dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood right in the heart of Seven Mile Beach. It’s a frequented location for Caymanians and tourists alike. A dish that stands out on their menu is the coconut steamed mussels, which brings together the rich, creamy flavours of coconut with the briny sweetness of fresh mussels. It’s a favourite flavour combination in the Cayman Islands.
The mussels are steamed in a broth made from coconut milk and local scotch bonnet peppers butter, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exotic. The coconut milk adds a creamy richness to the dish, while the scotch bonnet peppers cut through the creaminess for a delectable depth of flavour. Served with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth, these mussels are a perfect representation of the fusion of Caribbean and Asian influences that can be found in Caymanian cuisine.
For another must-try local favourite, order the cayman style lobster tails. Served grilled with garlic butter, roasted potatoes and sautéed asparagus, it’s an unforgettable local dish. Cayman style lobster has a distinctively different taste, sweet, tender and delicious. They are lobster tails as you’ve never had before. Don’t forget to indulge in a delicious cocktail like a Cayman style mudslide to pair with your meal!
- Special mention, fried sweet plantain – Roasters Chicken
They may not be a main course, but the fried sweet plantain at Roasters Chicken certainly deserves an honourable mention. Roasters Chicken is a great option for last-minute comfort food cravings as a delivery-only option on island.
Join Bite Club for delicious local rewards
Exploring the culinary delights of Grand Cayman is a journey worth savouring, especially when it includes these exceptional local food dishes at a range of fantastic eateries. From the seared snapper at Guy Harvey’s Boathouse Grill to the coconut steamed mussels at Saltwater Grill, each of these restaurants offers a unique taste of the Caribbean, and the Cayman Islands in particular, that will leave all you foodies wanting more. Better yet, you can always pair your local dish with a local drink, like a mudslide, to make the experience truly unforgettable.
As you dine your way through these fantastic spots, don’t forget to take advantage of the Bite Club rewards program, the only program of its kind in the Cayman Islands. By joining Bite Club, you can earn points every time you enjoy a meal at a participating restaurant. You can then use those points as cash next time you visit. It’s the perfect way to make your dining experiences even more rewarding while exploring the best that Grand Cayman has to offer.
So, whether you’re a local or a visitor, make sure to indulge in these must-try dishes and sign up for Bite Club to enhance your culinary adventures in Grand Cayman.
