The island’s most beloved institution and, for many repeat visitors, the defining St Barts meal. Maya’s has been feeding the island’s most discerning guests for over 30 years — a terrace above Gustavia’s Public harbor, lantern-lit tables, a menu that changes with the market, and a tuna tartare that has become something close to legendary. The wine list is serious. The crowd is international and discreetly distinguished. If you book only one restaurant in St Barts, book this one.

Insider tip: Request a table on the outer terrace. The harbor view at night is worth the extra ask. Don’t skip the rum baba for dessert.

The most romantic dinner on the island, full stop. Le Gaiac sits on the clifftop of Hotel Le Toiny’s property, overlooking the wild, surf-facing Atlantic from a position of extraordinary drama. The chef works with local seafood and island-grown produce to produce modern French cuisine of genuine ambition. The tasting menu is the correct choice. The wine list is exceptional. Arrive at sunset and stay for the meal — it is designed to take three hours and earns every minute.

Hidden in a garden just inland from Saline Beach, L’Esprit is the island’s most intimate fine dining experience. Chef Kenny Atcheson produces French-Caribbean fusion with precision and genuine creativity — not the derivative fusion of lesser restaurants, but cooking that reflects a deep understanding of both traditions. The setting — open-air, garden-lit, beautifully designed — is one of the most beautiful dining rooms in the Caribbean.

The finest Italian food in the Caribbean. The pasta is made in-house daily. The risotto is exceptional. The burrata is flown from Italy. The terrace overlooks the Grand Cul de Sac lagoon, and the light at lunch — reflecting off the pale water through the teak furniture — is extraordinary. Non-guests are welcome and should absolutely come. Order the pasta, the branzino, and at least one bottle of Gavi di Gavi.

Walking distance from Gustavia port, Do Brazil is the island’s most beloved casual institution — and one that some regulars would rank alongside the fine dining rooms for the totality of the experience. The caipirinhas are cold and properly made. The grilled fish is freshly caught. The setting — Shell Beach’s distinctive pebble-and-shell shoreline, facing due west — produces what many consider the finest sunset view on the island. Arrive for a late lunch and stay until the sky goes dark.