10 Best Restaurants in New Providence and Paradise Islands, Bahamas

Athena Cafe and Bar

$$ Fodor's choice

You're greeted with a welcoming "Opa!" at this family-owned authentic Greek spot where they serve up tasty lunches at moderate prices. Sit on the second floor among Grecian statuary or on the balcony overlooking the action below. Enjoy souvlaki, moussaka, or a hearty Greek gyro, a break from the Nassau culinary routine, in a relaxed and friendly establishment. Be sure to save room for one of their authentic Greek desserts. The baklava cheesecake is divine. Dinner is an option only if you eat very early; they close at 5 pm.

Bahamian Cookin' Restaurant

$$ Fodor's choice

Three generations of Bahamian women treat patrons as if they were guests in their own home. And the Bahamian food whipped up in the kitchen is as close to homemade as you can get in a restaurant. This simple locale is bustling with local professionals during the week and has also become a popular spot for cruise-ship passengers. Grandmother Mena swears their conch fritters are the "conchiest" you'll find. Takeout-only breakfast is served Monday through Saturday, while lunch is both sit-down and take-out the same days.

Crusoe's Restaurant

$$ Fodor's choice

This hidden gem is worth a visit even if you are not staying at the Comfort Suites; the casual and family-friendly, alfresco restaurant has enticing menus. The lunch menu is available whenever the restaurant is open and offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps, and salads as well as delectable desserts. Their guava brioche bread pudding is something you must try. For dinner, there is something for everyone if you're looking for a more substantial meal. It's a great spot for seafood, but they also offer a variety of meat, chicken, and vegetarian dishes.

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Syrah Cellar Cafe

$$ Fodor's choice

This intimate spot is usually packed with locals who reside on the eastern end of the island; be sure to call ahead to book a table. Dine surrounded by bottles of wine and, on some nights, live acoustic guitar. There's also an outdoor terrace. Choose from a variety of small plates: sweet-heat conch bites, BBQ pulled-pork poutine, and the grilled lobster crostini. There's also a selection of flatbreads, burgers, pasta dishes, and hearty meat and seafood entrees.

Viola's Bar & Grill

$$ Fodor's choice

This unassuming bar and grill is a consistent Paradise Island favorite with locals and savvy visitors. Their menu is a simple but tasty mix of standard American basics like burgers, pizza, sandwiches, and salads as well as Bahamian classics like curry chicken and conch fritters. Breakfast is strictly American style. The small al fresco bar and restaurant can get quite lively on weekends when the nightly karaoke gives way to professional live music.

Anthony's

$$

This lively, casual spot is one of the most affordable places for breakfast, lunch, or dinner this side of Nassau Harbour, but that doesn't mean it's cheap. The baby back ribs with a homemade barbecue sauce are among the most popular on this Bahamian and American fare menu. The extensive menu (60-plus items to choose from) includes seafood pasta, grouper and salmon, steaks, burgers, ribs, and salads. 

Seafront Sushi

$$

One of Nassau's hot spots, this simple restaurant has an extensive menu, including traditional rolls, sushi, and sashimi, as well as more innovative options that incorporate conch and other local delicacies. The volcano roll topped with their special conch sauce is a favorite. There are enough non-seafood options on the menu to satisfy anyone in your group. Friday and Saturday nights are really busy, and they do not accept reservations, so be prepared to wait for a table.

E. Bay St., Nassau, New Providence Island, Bahamas
242-394–1706
Known For
  • volcano roll
  • sushi worth waiting for
  • traditional tatami rooms
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: No lunch Sat., Reservations not accepted

Sharkeez Bar & Grill

$$

You may have a hard time picking your drink from the extensive menu of frozen concoctions at this upstairs spot. The Sneaky Tiki, with seven types of rum, is a favorite, as are the Sharkeez Volcano (which is set ablaze) and the Nassau Iced Tea, a twist on the "Long Island" traditional. Sit indoors or enjoy the fresh air and a fantastic harbor view on the long wraparound balcony with some basic American and Bahamian bar food. Finish up with guava duff for dessert. No matter what your sport, this is a good spot to catch your team in action on one of 10 big-screen TVs.

Woodes Rodgers Walk, Nassau, New Providence Island, Bahamas
242-322–8519
Known For
  • creative frozen concoctions
  • lively setting
  • theme nights

Sip Sip

$$

This famed Harbour Island staple has relocated to Marina Village on Paradise Island. Enjoy a variety of light bites featuring local ingredients, such as black bean hummus, conch chili nachos, or the delicious lobster quesadilla. There's also a salad menu as well as a few burgers and a grouper reuben. By the way, "sip sip" is the local term for gossip. 

The Pink Octopus

$$

One of the only restaurants on the far eastern end of the island, this cool spot is situated within a high-end gated community. The two-story, chic island-style building gets a cool ocean breeze from the beach just outside, and there's a bar situated poolside. The fish tacos are a favorite, or for something more hearty, try a beef or lamb burger piled high with toppings or the whole roasted snapper. 

Yamacraw Rd., Nassau, New Providence Island, Bahamas
242-698–0234
Known For
  • upscale atmosphere on the far eastern end
  • amazing ocean breeze and views
  • wood-fired pizzas with crispy crust
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Reservations required for non-members of the gated Palm Cay community