Antigua - Dining

Dining Although additional restaurants are likely to crop up soon, currently many of the island's eateries are simple takeaway stands. In addition to the restaurant (also recommended) that's within the Tropical Mansions hotel, there are the following noteworthy exceptions:

Tina's Restaurant , on Brades Main Road, is set within a green-and-white Antillean house, less than a 5-minute drive uphill from the ferryboat terminal. This restaurant was established in 1998 by Tina Farrell, after she was evacuated from her home on Montserrat's southern tier. Expect a cozy, down-home Caribbean feel, with savory portions of chicken or beef, as well as grilled chicken salads or lobster salads, and whatever type of fresh fish that was hauled in by local fishermen that day. Open Monday to Saturday from 8am to midnight, it charges EC$10 to EC$26 (US$3.70-US$9.60) for main courses at lunch; EC$45 ($17) for a set menu at lunch, and EC$45 to EC$65 (US$17-US$24) for set menus at dinner. No credit cards are accepted; reservations are recommended.

JJ's Cuisine , in Sweeney's Center, St. John's Main Road, is owned and operated by Dominica-born Zephrina Jnofinn. This popular restaurant lies within a building that's within a 5-minute drive from the heliport. Inside the simple dining room you can order lobster, a worthy version of mountain chicken (frog's legs) sautéed in butter with garlic, sandwiches, and excellent burgers that Zephrina concocts herself with a few secret ingredients. Hours are Monday to Saturday from 8am to midnight. Burgers and sandwiches cost EC$6.50 to EC$15 (US$2.40-US$5.55); platters go for EC$16 to EC$65 (US$5.90-US$24). No credit cards are accepted; reservations are recommended.