3 Best Restaurants in Montserrat

Formerly Tina's, this restaurant still occupies a pretty, green-and-white wooden building that's garlanded year-round with Christmas lights, a harbinger of the good vibes within, and it's still the best place to eavesdrop on island gossip, as government functionaries file in for lunch (at least when day-trippers don't take over). In a trim room or on a breezy though viewless verandah, dine on old-time dishes like souse or more upscale specialties such as velvety pumpkin soup, proper escargots, and tender lobster in a sultry creole or (even better) tangy garlic sauce.

This delightful coffeehouse percolates with strong java and lively chatter thanks to owners David, Clover, Sun, and Kristina Lea (the folks behind Gingerbread Hill up the road). Volcanic relics, old Montserrat Lime posters, and a wild collection of hats adorn the space. In addition to luscious lattes, you can order bush teas, yummy cinnamon rolls, apple tarts, pure frozen-fruit ice cream, and more. A competitor is always available for a spirited game of chess, darts, or dominoes. All the local artworks and products on the walls are for sale. Hours are irregular, so best to call ahead.

Five different rums power the knockout Olveston Rum Punch, while the animated chatter of locals, expats, and visitors generates its own potent buzz. Picture windows overlook the handsome verandah and gardens at this popular eatery, where chef Sarah Sweeney uses whatever ingredients are available—always creatively—often making fresh wahoo, garlic shrimp, or pork tenderloin. Her sublime sticky toffee pudding, luscious cheesecakes, and mango-ginger crumble are divine. Sailing etchings, period cabinets with mismatched china, and serenading tree frogs create the ambiance of dining at someone's country estate, Caribbean-style. Be sure to call ahead, tables are by reservation only.