Eating and Drinking in Jolly Harbour 🍴
Roti
Your guide to dining in and around Clearwater Villa
One of the many reasons we love being at Clearwater Villa is the freedom to choose between cooking at home or dining out locally, all without ever leaving Jolly Harbour.
Dining In: Your Home Kitchen in Paradise
The villa is fully equipped for those who enjoy cooking (or mixing a few sunset cocktails). Inside, you’ll find an American-style fridge freezer with a water and ice dispenser, oven, hob and grill, microwave, and even an American toaster oven.
Coffee lovers are spoiled for choice with a kettle, percolator, and cafetière, and for the tropical touch, there’s a blender ready for your morning smoothies or evening piña coladas. Outside, the gas barbecue makes alfresco dining a pleasure, perfect for a grilled fish supper or a casual beach-style dinner under the stars.
And when it’s time to clean up? The dishwasher makes that easy, too.
Eating Out: Our Favourite Local Spots
Even though Clearwater Villa has everything you need, you’re on holiday so here are some of our top dining recommendations, all within Jolly Harbour.
Sea Dream
Open daily from 11am for lunch and dinner, Sea Dream is one of our go-to spots. The owner is Italian, so there’s a touch of Mediterranean flair to the menu alongside island favourites and casual dishes. The blackened Mahi Mahi is a standout, and the pasta dishes never disappoint. The setting is relaxed and friendly ideal for a long lunch or dinner under the stars.
Petal’s Café
A Jolly Harbour gem, Petal’s is open for breakfast and lunch. My go-to is one of her fluffy omelettes, but my daughter insists that no trip is complete without Petal’s French toast.
If you want to try a true Antiguan favourite, order a Roti, a West Indian-style curry wrapped in a soft chapati. Petal’s chicken and vegetable rotis are delicious. They often sell out, so it’s worth ordering ahead in the morning if you plan to stop by for lunch or take one away.
Local Drinks to Try
Wherever you eat, don’t miss out on the local juices; fresh ginger, soursop, or tamarind. The ginger juice is my favourite, though be warned, it packs a spicy kick!
When it comes to something stronger, Carib beer is the local staple, and of course, rum reigns supreme. A rum punch is always a good idea; I’m partial to a Antiguan old-fashioned, which is less sweet but equally refreshing.
Al Porto
If you have a car or golf cart, Al Porto is worth the short trip, although walkable it is located opposite the golf course, with lovely views over the harbour. While I’m not a huge fan of their pizzas, the daily specials are consistently excellent, especially the fish dishes.
Sandra’s Beach Bar & Grill
For a true Caribbean vibe, Sandra’s is the place to be and it’s just a short stroll from Clearwater Villa. Sitting right on the beach, it’s my favourite spot to watch the sunset with a drink in hand. The food is good, local, with daily specials and plenty of charm. Try their old-fashioned rum punch, it’s my top recommendation for your first evening on the island.
Epicurean Supermarket
If you prefer to stock up or grab something quick, Epicurean in Jolly Harbour has everything you’ll need. The selection includes both English and American brands ,with many UK items imported from Waitrose.
Their takeaway bar is perfect for a beach picnic or poolside lunch. The daily dish often features chicken or fish with rice and vegetables, but you’ll also find fried chicken and other local favourites. It’s quick, tasty, and great value.
There are always new restaurants opening in Jolly Harbour, but these tried and tested spots are my favourites. Whether you’re cooking at home, grabbing a beachside lunch, or enjoying dinner with live music by the marina, Jolly Harbour makes it easy to eat well - island style. 🌺