Diners' Choice: Neighbourhood gem restaurants in Aruba

OpenTable

Updated December 05, 2024

Looking for the best restaurants that are the best neighbourhood gems in Aruba? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyzes nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favourite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Boutique Speakeasy

4.9

4.9 (33)

$31 to $50

Speakeasy

Oranjestad

About the restaurant

A place where unique drinks weave secret melodies, and create an unforgettable experience.

Dress code:
NO caps
NO hoodies
NO man purses
NO bodyshirts
NO beachwear
NO flip flops

Top review

Jennifer

Dined today

Great drinks and amazing service. Love the ambience.

Apotek Speakeasy - 21+ Only

4.8

4.8 (485)

$31 to $50

Speakeasy

Oranjestad

About the restaurant

Pioneers of the Caribbean cocktail scene, inspiring others to crave the classic and experimental art of the cocktail. Apotheek, which is Dutch for Apothecary, serves authentic remedy cocktails in Aruba's only Speakeasy. We are tucked away in a historic building... somewhere in Oranjestad. In order for us to best serve you, we request that you make a reservation. We also ask that you kindly comply with our House Rules while visiting our establishment. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the hotel area and come take a relaxing evening stroll through our capital, Oranjestad. We look forward to filling your prescriptions soon!

Top review

JustinVIP

Dined on Dec 17, 2024

Hidden gem in the heart of the tourist downtown. A must visit!

Pelican Nest Seafood Grill

4.7

4.7 (988)

$30 and under

Caribbean

Aruba

About the restaurant

The Pelican Nest Seafood Grill, opened its doors in 1994 and has been a favorite place for locals and tourists alike ever since.

Aruba’s favorite restaurant completely above the water offers many unique attributes; the spectacular view at any time of the day and especially during sunsets, the wide array of fresh seafood, a relaxing atmosphere, exclusive seating for dinner and the option while dining to feed the fish. Our Peruvian chef makes a famous and delicious fish ceviche.

The Caribbean, easy going yet professional atmosphere, the choice of fresh items on the menu, a courteous and friendly staff, the ever lasting sense of well-being and complete relaxation and enjoyment, what more could one require?

Top review

AnatolyVIP

Dined 1 day ago

Excellent as always! Love this place. Location is wonderful , but it’s the people who work there make jt such a special experience.

Discover more

4.7

4.7 (3830)

$50 and over

International

Aruba

About the restaurant

Madame Janette was founded on April 2nd 1999. The restaurant developed into a place, which offers fine dining in a casual atmosphere.
Karsten, a European Master Chef, trained in ‘old school’ traditions creates, with help from his knowledgeable international staff, tasteful and creative dishes.
Their combined worldwide experience gives their dishes an original flavor with a touch of Caribbean in it.
We call it the Madame Janette Experience!
We hope that you will have a wonderful dining romance.

Top review

Jonathan

Dined 1 day ago

Staff was warm, friendly and professional. Food was nicely presented and tasted excellent. Portions were large enough to share and desert was also great.

Discover more

Popular dish

The Original "Almond Grouper"

Popular dish

The Famous Bang Bang Shrimp

Popular dish

Tenderloin

L'Avenue Aruba

4.7

4.7 (63)

$31 to $50

International

Noord

About the restaurant

Nestled in Palm Beach's prestigious Cove Mall, L'Avenue Belgian Bistro awaits. Between Marriott, Ritz Carlton, and Holiday Inn, enjoy classic Belgian dishes with a modern twist. From hearty stews to enticing fresh mussels and Belgian fries, savor a culinary journey at L'Avenue. Join us for lunch and dinner in an ambiance seamlessly blending classic and modern, accompanied by daily live music at night. Indulge in our luxury sandwiches like the iconic croque monsieur for a midday treat in our air-conditioned comfort. Pair your meal with great wines and our exclusive Belgian beer selection for a truly elevated dining experience. Executive Chef Juan Ludeña leads our kitchen. As the sister restaurant of Papillon, we're honored to share 15 years of culinary excellence with you. Enjoy the serene view of our indoor garden, where chefs manage their herbs, adding a touch of freshness to your dining experience.

Top review

Evgeny

Dined 4 days ago

Great restaurant in Aruba with a fairly unique vibe.

Italy in the World

4.6

4.6 (210)

$31 to $50

Italian

Oranjestad

About the restaurant

We are a small Italian restaurant that offers a wide variety of typical dishes and the best Italian wines, made in the most traditional way.
Homemade pasta, with various types of fillings; or the most traditional pasta such as bolognese, amatricciana, frutti di mare, putanesca, genovesa, gnocchi meat sauce, carbonara, lasagna, frutti di mare.
Meats such as Osso Bucco, Brasato stew, scalopina in wine, braciola, chicken parmiggiana and seafood dishes like Ciopino
All made to order while you enjoy getting to know our house....the oldest house in Oranjestad, the capital of Aruba

Top review

Rhonda

Dined 7 days ago

Excellent food- served well- service and food were great

Patrizia's of Aruba

4.6

4.6 (2094)

$30 and under

Italian

Aruba

About the restaurant

BRINGING A TASTE OF NEW YORK TO ARUBA, PATRIZIA'S OFFERS ITS FAMOUS FAMILY-STYLE TASTING MENU INCLUDING 5 APPETIZERS, 1 PASTA, 3 ENTREES, DESSERT, COFFEE FOR $60 PP! OPEN FOR DINNER ONLY WITH INDOOR AND OUTDOOR AL FRESCO DINING, GREAT MUSIC AND AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE.

Top review

Julia

Dined 2 days ago

Great service and great food! If you’re in the mood for Italian in Aruba, Patrizias is a must!

On The Rocks

4.6

4.6 (20)

$30 and under

Gastro Pub

Noord

About the restaurant

Welcome to On The Rocks - Craft Kitchen and Bar, located on Aruba's vibrant high-rise strip! Our venue is the ideal spot for a night out with friends, family, or that special someone. With a diverse menu featuring a variety of delicious crafted foods—from shareable starters to our signature double-smashed burgers and hand-cut fries—there’s something to satisfy every craving. Pair your meal with one of our handcrafted cocktails, expertly prepared by our skilled bartenders.

While you enjoy your food and drinks, soak in the lively atmosphere with beats from our in-house DJ, live bands, or catch the latest sports action on our screens. Our energetic ambiance and welcoming staff ensure a memorable experience for all. Whether you’re looking to relax after a long day or celebrate a special event, On The Rocks has everything you need for an unforgettable night out!

Top review

Lisa

Dined 3 days ago

Food was good. Service was a bit slow - drinks were delayed coming to the table and entrees were slower than expected. Overall good food, good location.

King Fred & Princess Diana

4.5

4.5 (77)

$30 and under

International

Aruba

About the restaurant

On October 4th, 2022 the Dutch red windmill opened her doors to Fred & Diana.

Diana is known for Diana's Pancakes, across Barcelo and before that, she was the owner of a similar pancake place next to the mill.

Fred is known for his former restaurants Chef's Tables, 2 Fools and a Bull and Fred Restaurant in downtown Oranjestad.

The two decided to work together and King Fred & Princess Diana was born. Diana delights guests with Dutch pancakes in the morning, while Fred takes the reins in the evening, serving a diverse range of international cuisine for dinner.

On the second floor you will find our souvenir shop that can be visited anytime upon request.

The third floor belongs to Frans, who is a well known bartender in the Aruban hospitality industry. He will serve you cold drinks for a reasonable price.

Top review

Melody

Dined 5 days ago

Great dinner experience! Lovely drink list, wonderful food, and great service!

Lola Taqueria / Craft

4.4

4.4 (531)

$30 and under

Mexican

Aruba

About the restaurant

Lola is an authentic Mexican Taqueria in the heart of Aruba's Palm Beach. Sharing a nice little spot with sister bar Craft, Lola is sure to delight your palate and stimulate your taste buds with fresh tacos, sumptuous cocktails, and an unmatched, groovy vibe. Come sit with us!

Top review

MeredithVIP

Dined on Dec 12, 2024

Food was good. Noise /music unbearable. Couldn’t wait to get out of there!

Explore Diners' Choice best of Aruba

Explore more Diners' Choice lists

International