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Which Sandals Resort Has the Best Food? [Reviewed 2025]
- Jonathan & Angela
- May 2
- 9 min read
Updated: May 3
You’re here because you want to know which Sandals resort has the best food. You’re also here because food isn’t just an “extra” when you go on vacation. My wife and I are the same way.
I may be one of the few people to have had jerk chicken at every Sandals resort in the portfolio. So I know a thing or two about the dining experiences at each resort, and with Angela being a vegan, we can confidently say that Sandals can do it all, even if you have dietary restrictions.
Here’s the quick answer you’re looking for:
Sandals St. Vincent: Hands-down the best overall dining, offering upscale Caribbean flavors and fine dining that rivals top U.S. restaurants.
Sandals Grenada: Known for incredible seafood, casual gourmet experiences, and the best fish ‘n’ chips you’ll find at any Sandals.
Sandals Royal Curaçao: Fresh, modern menus with larger portions and a unique island-inclusive dining program you won’t find anywhere else.
Sandals Dunn’s River: A brand-new "Sandals 2.0" resort featuring upgraded international dining options, more local flavors, modern plating, etc.
Sandals Grande St. Lucian: Best variety across the board, with everything from overwater seafood dining to beachfront sushi under the stars.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly why these five resorts stand out, from ingredient quality and menu diversity to guest feedback and our personal experiences on property.
Ready to find your perfect foodie paradise? Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents: Jump to Section
How We Ranked the Best Sandals Resorts for Food
When Angela and I help our clients choose the right Sandals resort, food is always a top priority, especially for honeymoons, anniversaries, or once-in-a-lifetime trips. With that in mind, we used a proven system based on real-world experience to rank the resorts you’ll see here.
Food Quality
First and foremost, quality matters. We look at freshness, flavor, presentation, and overall consistency. One huge advantage at Sandals, especially in Jamaica, is that 96% of ingredients are locally sourced and brought from farm to table within 24 hours. You can taste the difference in everything from the jerk chicken to the fresh-caught snapper.
Global Gourmet Cuisine
We also considered the variety of cuisines a resort offers. From authentic Italian and Asian fusion to Caribbean seafood, French fine dining, and vegan options, the more variety, the better. Nobody wants to eat the same thing every night on vacation.
Guest Reviews
We combined our personal experiences, feedback from hundreds of Rivage Travel clients, and insights from foodie communities.
Special Dining Experiences
Signature experiences matter. Overwater dining, curated tasting menus, private sunset dinners, these unforgettable meals can transform a great trip into something magical.
Authenticity
Lastly, we rewarded resorts that embrace local flavors. Resorts that integrate real Caribbean cuisine, not just international dishes, stand out. When you’re traveling to the islands, you should get a real taste of the islands.
# 1. Sandals St. Vincent: The Foodie’s Dream
When it comes to food, Sandals St. Vincent isn’t just good, it’s world-class. From the moment Angela and I first stepped foot on property, it was clear this was a game-changer for Sandals. The dining here isn’t just “good for an all-inclusive.” It’s genuinely on par with some of the best restaurants we’ve experienced in New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, and that’s saying something.
Best Overall Quality
Every meal at Sandals St. Vincent reflects a serious commitment to quality. Ingredients are locally sourced and fresh, menus are creative without being fussy, and the service feels as polished as a high-end city restaurant. Guests regularly tell us that their dining experiences here exceeded anything they expected from an all-inclusive resort.
What to Try
Buccan: If you can only have one dinner here, make it at Buccan. This fine-dining Caribbean restaurant highlights elevated local flavors in a modern, elegant setting.
The Pier: A stunning overwater seafood experience where the sunset views are just as impressive as the grilled lobster and fresh snapper.
Vincentian Local Specials: Don’t miss the resort’s special local tasting menus, rich stews, spicy seafood, and bold island flavors you won’t find at older Sandals properties.
Unique Experiences
One of the touches that truly sets St. Vincent apart is the complimentary butler water transfer for Butler Elite guests. Trust me, this is a smooth, scenic ride that kicks off your trip in style. Plus, Buccament Bay’s private setting creates the perfect atmosphere for sunset dinners that feel intimate, luxurious, and a world away from the crowds.
Note: Buccan is extremely popular (for good reason). We recommend reserving a table through the app 14 days prior to arrival, or better yet, let your butler secure it in advance.
# 2. Sandals Grenada: Best Seafood and Casual Gourmet
If you’re a seafood lover or just someone who appreciates casual gourmet done right, Sandals Grenada deserves a top spot on your radar. Angela and I have stayed here multiple times, and every visit reminds us just how consistent (and delicious) this resort really is for meat eaters and vegans alike.
Incredible Seafood + Casual Gourmet
Sandals Grenada nails the balance between fine dining and relaxed island flavors. It's the kind of place where you can have a gourmet seafood dinner overlooking the ocean, then grab perfect fish ‘n’ chips by the pool the next day without missing a beat.
What to Try
Best Fish ‘n’ Chips in the Entire Brand: It sounds simple, but it’s a standout. Light, crispy, and full of flavor, better than many pub menus back home.
Neptune’s Seafood: Think fresh catches of the day, Mediterranean grilled fish, and lobster infused with island spices.
Butch’s Steakhouse: One of the most polished experiences at the resort, offering premium cuts of steak, surf & turf, and a romantic ambiance ideal for a special night.
One of the signature experiences at Sandals Grenada is staying in a SkyPool Suite, private infinity pools suspended high above the beach, with incredible views. And here’s the bonus: you can order room service from any of the resort’s restaurants.
Imagine dining on fresh seafood in your own private plunge pool at sunset... It's unforgettable!
# 3. Sandals Royal Curaçao: Best Portion Sizes and Modern Menus
Sandals Royal Curaçao brings a fresh twist to the Sandals experience, and when it comes to food, it’s a standout for those who crave both modern menus and hearty portion sizes. When Angela and I visited Curaçao, we were blown away by how the culinary experience felt elevated yet completely approachable.
Fresh, Global, and Generous
One thing you’ll notice immediately at Royal Curaçao is the generous portion sizes, something that’s not always guaranteed at resorts. Whether you’re diving into a Mediterranean seafood platter or savoring Latin fusion flavors, you’re getting bold dishes that actually fill you up.
What to Try
Aolos (Mediterranean Fine Dining): Sophisticated yet approachable, with standout seafood, lamb, and mezze platters infused with Greek and Italian flair.
Zuka (Latin Fusion): A creative mix of Caribbean, South American, and Mexican flavors, spicy, bright, and absolutely delicious.
Royal Curaçao offers something no other Sandals does yet: the Dine Around Program. When booking select upper-tiered butler-level rooms, you receive a $250 voucher to dine off-property at six hand-picked local restaurants, all included in your stay.
It’s perfect for adventurous foodies who want to explore Curaçao’s dining scene without pulling out their wallet.
How’s The Seafood Compared To Grenada And St. Vincent?
Curaçao’s seafood leans more Mediterranean-focused. Think grilled octopus, olive oil-brushed swordfish, and saffron seafood risotto. It's slightly lighter and fresher than the rich, spicy Caribbean styles you’ll find in Grenada and St. Vincent.
# 4. Sandals Dunn’s River: Best New Resort Dining Variety
Sandals Dunn’s River is a breath of fresh air. Part of the new “Sandals 2.0” era, it’s setting a new standard not just in luxury, but especially in food. Angela and I were among the first to experience it after opening, and the dining scene was incredible!
Fresh Concepts, Big Upgrades
Dunn’s River isn’t just another resort with a different backdrop; it’s a massive culinary upgrade compared to many of the older properties. Everything from the kitchen design to the service training and menus feels sharper, more curated, and more exciting.
What to Try
Rum Club Tapas Bar: One of the coolest spots we’ve found at any Sandals. Craft cocktails, island-spiced tapas, and small plates designed for sharing, it’s authentic Caribbean flavor without the watered-down tourist twist.
Edessa Greek Fine Dining: Mediterranean-inspired, with standout lamb dishes, feta-topped seafood, and perfect mezes.
Zuka Caribbean Fusion: A modern take on traditional island flavors, blending spice, citrus, and seafood into unforgettable plates.
Unique Experiences
Sandals Dunn’s River is built from the ground up as a “next generation” resort. You’ll notice better restaurant layouts, more innovative menus, upscale interiors, and an overall elevated dining culture.
It feels new in all the best ways!
# 5. Sandals Grande St. Lucian: Best Resort for Variety
If variety is your flavor of choice, Sandals Grande St. Lucian is the resort for you. Angela and I love how this property offers a little bit of everything: world-class dining, iconic overwater restaurants, and casual beachfront meals, all in one of the most beautiful settings Sandals has ever built.
Something New Every Night
Sandals Grande St. Lucian shines because of its sheer range. Whether you’re craving sushi, fresh seafood, or a gourmet steak dinner under the stars, you’ll find it here, without feeling like you’re repeating yourself halfway through your trip.
What to Try
Gordon’s Overwater Grill: Easily one of the most stunning dining venues in the Caribbean. Dine on surf & turf, fresh swordfish, and grilled lobster, all while the ocean sparkles beneath you.
Soy Sushi: Cozy, high-quality sushi made to order. A must-do for seafood lovers.
Barefoot by the Sea: Casual beachfront dining, literally with your toes in the sand, offering grilled seafood, tropical salads, and Caribbean classics.
Bombay: this is always one of our highlights when visiting here and is amust do for anyone who enjoys a good curry.
Overwater dining at Gordon’s is perfect. Watching the sunset while enjoying a perfectly cooked filet or seafood platter is the kind of moment you’ll remember forever.
Plus, Barefoot by the Sea adds a totally different vibe, laid-back, breezy, and perfect for a romantic yet relaxed lunch or dinner.
But Wait, There’s More! Consider This When Choosing
Before booking your Sandals vacation solely based on or influenced by dining, there are a few important tips that Angela and I always share with our clients. These small details can make a huge difference in your overall experience and help you get the most out of your foodie getaway.
Lobster Season Timing
Lobster season generally runs from July through April, but it varies slightly depending on the island. For example, Barbados' season starts later in September. Outside of these months, lobster is off the menu to protect local populations. If seafood is a big part of your vacation vision, make sure your travel dates align with lobster season!
Dining Reservations
For the most popular restaurants like Buccan at Sandals St. Vincent and Gordon’s on the Pier, you’ll need to book reservations as soon as you arrive. If you’re staying in a Club or Butler level accommodation, we highly recommend letting your concierge or butler handle reservations for you as they know exactly how to time it so you don't miss out on the best experiences.
Pro Tip: Sandals is now allowing guests to book one dinner reservation 14 days prior to arrival though the Sandals app. This is how.. 1) Go to your booking 2) Select your restaurant 3) Book your reservation
Drink Expectations
While the dining at Sandals has reached incredible levels at many resorts, the drink menus can sometimes lag behind. Premium wines and spirits are included, but if you’re expecting craft cocktail bar-quality drinks (think custom mixology menus), you might find the offerings a bit more basic.
Places like Rum Club at Dunn’s River and select newer bars are beginning to change that, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Off-Resort Dining
If you want to expand your food experience beyond the resort walls, Sandals Royal Curaçao is currently the only property offering an Island-Inclusive Dining Program. This allows you to eat at select off-property local restaurants, included in your stay.
It’s an incredible way to experience the true flavors of Curaçao while still enjoying the ease and benefits of Sandals service.
Ready to Plan Your Perfect Foodie Getaway?
If food is a big part of your dream Caribbean vacation, you deserve a Sandals experience that’s unforgettable in every way.
At Rivage Travel, Angela and I have personally visited every Sandals resort, and we know exactly how to match you to the one that fits your flavor, style, and occasion.
Let’s make your next meal in paradise something truly special. 👉 [Book a Free Consultation ➔]
FAQs: Foodies Planning Sandals Vacations
Which Sandals Has The Most Restaurants?
If you're someone who loves having endless dining options, the Barbados properties are your best bet. By staying at either Sandals Barbados or Sandals Royal Barbados, you get dual-resort access, meaning you can enjoy over 20 different restaurants without leaving the property.
It's easily the largest combined dining selection anywhere in the Sandals portfolio.
Is The Food Worth Upgrading To Club Or Butler Service?
In our opinion, absolutely, yes. Club and Butler guests have priority access to dining reservations, which can be crucial at the most popular restaurants like Gordon’s and Buccan. Beyond that, the upgraded service means personalized dining suggestions, 24 hour in-room dining from top restaurants, an upgraded room-service menu, and a more luxurious overall experience.
If food is a highlight of your trip, the upgrade pays for itself.
Which Sandals Resort Offers The Best Vegan And Vegetarian Options?
For plant-based travelers, Sandals St. Vincent, Sandals Grenada, and Sandals Royal Curaçao really stand out.
Each of these resorts features expansive vegetarian and vegan menus that go far beyond basic salads or pasta. Think jackfruit tacos, vegan curries, dairy-free desserts, and locally inspired plant-based creations that are satisfying, inventive, and full of Caribbean flavor. Yum!
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