Ultimate Guide to What to Eat in St Croix

St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a slice of paradise known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture. However, what truly sets it apart is its rich and diverse cuisine. With roots in African, European, and Caribbean traditions, St. Croix offers a delightful mix of flavors. Whether you crave savory seafood or sweet local treats, this island caters to every taste.

In this blog post, we will explore 25 must-try dishes that embody the culinary essence of St. Croix. Each dish reflects the island’s rich heritage and unique flavors. So, grab your forks and get ready for a flavorful journey through St. Croix!

Travel Guide: St Croix

1. Fish and Fungi

Wide angle view of a plate filled with colorful fish and fungi — A delicious serving of fish and fungi from St. Croix.

Fish and fungi is a traditional St. Croix dish showcasing the island’s abundant seafood. The “fish” often features fresh catches like snapper or grouper, fried to golden perfection and seasoned with island spices. The “fungi” is a delightful cornmeal and okra dish, resembling polenta. This pairing delivers a satisfying texture that complements the fish beautifully.

2. Callaloo

Close-up view of a bowl filled with vibrant callaloo stew — A bowl of hearty and nutritious callaloo stew.

Callaloo is a greens dish made from the leaves of the taro plant or amaranth. It’s simmered with garlic and onions, often enriched with coconut milk for added creaminess. This dish can be enjoyed as a side or a main course. It serves up vibrant colors and nutrients, making it a must-have that reflects the island’s commitment to fresh, local ingredients.

3. Pate

Eye-level view of a golden brown pate on a plate — A delicious freshly made pate, a popular snack in St. Croix.

Pate, or paté, is a savory pastry filled with spiced meat, usually pork, beef, or chicken. Found at local food stalls and restaurants, these golden pastries make for excellent snacks or appetizers. With their flaky crust and flavorful filling, they are hard to resist. The meat is often seasoned with a blend of spices that highlight the island’s culinary heritage.

4. Johnnycakes

High angle view of freshly made johnnycakes on a table — Golden brown johnnycakes served warm with butter.

Johnnycakes are a staple of Caribbean cuisine, made of cornmeal fried to a golden hue. They can be enjoyed on their own, topped with butter, or served as an accompaniment to meals. Their airy texture adds a delightful contrast to heartier dishes, making them a versatile choice for any meal.

5. Goat Water

Close-up view of a bowl of steaming goat water — A bowl of hearty goat water stew, rich and inviting.

Goat water, a traditional stew, is a comfort food in St. Croix. Made with tender goat meat, fresh vegetables, and an array of spices, this hearty dish is simmered slowly to bring out rich flavors. Often served with rice or bread, it’s perfect for filling up after a long day.

6. Conch Fritters

High angle view of a plate full of conch fritters sprinkled with green herbs — Crispy conch fritters served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Conch fritters are a beloved Caribbean treat, particularly popular in St. Croix. These savory bites consist of minced conch meat mixed with a medley of spices and herbs, then deep-fried until golden. Served with a tangy dipping sauce, they make for a delightful appetizer or snack, embodying the island’s seafood culture.

7. Roti

Eye-level view of a filled roti with sauce on the side — A delicious roti filled with seasoned meat and served with sauce.

Roti is a flatbread filled with curried meats or vegetables, showcasing the Indian influence on Caribbean cuisine. Often enjoyed with a side of shaggy sauce— a spicy condiment—roti is a comforting meal perfect for those seeking robust flavors.

8. Mofongo

Close-up view of a small bowl of mofongo topped with garlic sauce — A serving of mofongo topped with rich garlic sauce.

Mofongo is made from boiled green plantains mashed with garlic and pork cracklings. Often served alongside meats or seafood, this dish is hearty and filling. Its unique flavor and texture satisfy anyone looking for a comforting meal.

9. Cracked Conch

Wide angle view of a plate of golden cracked conch garnished with lime — A plate of succulent cracked conch, perfectly fried.

Fresh cracked conch is tenderized, battered, and deep-fried until crispy. This local favorite is best enjoyed fresh, typically served with dipping sauce. Its delicate flavor and satisfying crunch make it a must-try.

10. Escovitch Fish

Close-up view of a dish of escovitch fish garnished with pickled vegetables — An entree of escovitch fish with colorful pickled vegetables.

Escovitch fish is a vibrant dish made from fried whole fish topped with a tangy vinegar sauce and pickled vegetables. The bold flavors complement the fish beautifully and are often served with festival (fried dumplings) or rice, making it a colorful and tasty meal.

11. Souse

Eye-level view of a bowl of flavorful souse with herbs — A bright bowl of souse, a traditional Caribbean dish.

Souse is a pickled meat dish typically made with pork or chicken. After boiling the protein, it’s marinated in a tangy vinegar-based mixture with spices and fresh vegetables. Served chilled, it’s especially refreshing on a hot day, highlighting the island’s culinary creativity.

12. St. Croix Rum Cake

High angle view of a slice of decadent St. Croix rum cake on a plate — A rich slice of St. Croix rum cake drizzled with glaze.

St. Croix rum cake is a moist dessert made with local rum. Laced with dried fruits and nuts, this cake is often drenched in a rum glaze, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and memorable— perfect for those with a sweet tooth.

13. Coconut Shrimp

Close-up view of a plate of crispy coconut shrimp with a side of sauce — Golden coconut shrimp served crispy with tropical dipping sauce.

Coconut shrimp features succulent shrimp coated in shredded coconut and fried until crispy. Paired with a tangy mango sauce, this dish is a favorite among seafood lovers seeking a tropical twist.

14. Boulanger

Eye-level view of a serving of boulanger dish — A plate of sizzling boulanger, a baked dish inspired by local flavors.

Boulanger is a baked dish made with layers of seasoned meat and vegetables. It is typically served during special occasions, representing traditional home-style cooking in St. Croix. Its hearty nature satisfies the palate while showcasing the island’s rich agricultural bounty.

15. Sour Orange Glazed Chicken

Close-up view of a grilled chicken glazed with sour orange sauce — A perfectly grilled chicken resting in vibrant sour orange glaze.

Sour orange glazed chicken highlights the island’s love for citrus. Marinated in sour orange juice with spices, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a standout dish.

16. Tannia Root Puree

High angle view of a bowl of creamy tannia root puree — A smooth bowl of tannia root puree, an island delicacy.

Tannia root puree is a creamy dish made from boiled tannia root, which resembles potato. With a subtle flavor, it serves as a versatile side that pairs excellently with various main courses, showcasing the common ingredients of island cuisine.

17. Fried Plantains

Wide angle view of a plate of crispy fried plantains — Warm crispy fried plantains served as a side dish.

Fried plantains are a beloved Caribbean side. Sliced and fried to a crispy golden brown, they offer a sweet and savory contrast to meals. They pair wonderfully with fish or meat, adding flavor and texture to any plate.

18. Sweet Potato Pie

Eye-level view of a slice of sweet potato pie with whipped cream — A delicious slice of sweet potato pie topped with whipped cream.

Sweet potato pie exemplifies island flavors. With a buttery crust filled with mashed sweet potatoes, spices, and sweeteners, it is baked to creamy perfection. This dessert is a delightful conclusion to any meal.

19. Aki and Salt Fish

Close-up view of a steaming plate of aki and salt fish — A vibrant plate of aki and salt fish with herbs.

Aki and salt fish is a beloved Caribbean dish featuring fluffy akee fruit cooked with salted cod, onions, and tomatoes. Often enjoyed for breakfast, its savory profile makes it a delightful option at any time of day.

20. Bacalao Fritters

High angle view of a platter of bacalao fritters — A plate of savory bacalao fritters, crispy and inviting.

Bacalao fritters are made from salted cod mixed with a gluten-free batter, then deep-fried for a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Loved by locals and visitors alike, these provide a tasty snack or appetizer option.

21. Ceviche

Eye-level view of a fresh seafood ceviche served in a bowl — A bowl of zesty ceviche made with fresh seafood.

Ceviche showcases fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and other aromatic herbs. Light and refreshing, it’s ideal for hot beach days, highlighting the bounty of island seafood.

22. Mango Salsa

High angle view of a bowl of mango salsa with vibrant colors — A colorful bowl of fresh mango salsa, a tropical delight.

Mango salsa is a delightful combo of fresh mangoes, onions, and peppers tossed in lime juice. This sweet and spicy concoction often accompanies grilled meats, fish tacos, or serves as a chip dip, infusing your meals with tropical flavors.

23. Crab and Callaloo Soup

Eye-level view of a bowl filled with crab and callaloo soup — A steaming bowl of crab and callaloo soup, rich and aromatic.

This savory soup blends tender crab meat with callaloo greens in a flavorful broth seasoned with island spices. It’s a hearty dish ideal for warming up on cooler evenings, showcasing the richness of local seafood.

24. Tamarind Chutney

Close-up view of a spoonful of tamarind chutney — A small bowl of tamarind chutney, thick and fragrant.

Tamarind chutney is a sweet and tangy sauce made from tamarind pulp, sugar, and spices. It’s an excellent dip for fried snacks or a zesty topping for meats, balancing flavors beautifully.

25. Local Beer and Rum

Wide angle view of a local beer and rum selection on a table — A selection of local beers and rums, showcasing St. Croix’s beverages.

No culinary tour of St. Croix is complete without tasting the local beers and rums. Whether sipping on craft beer brewed on the island or enjoying a rum tasting, these beverages enhance the vibrant dining experience that St. Croix offers.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits

St. Croix serves as a culinary haven for anyone seeking to explore the rich flavors and traditions of the island. From savory dishes to sweet desserts, its cuisine reflects the cultural diversity that thrives here. Be sure to indulge in all 25 of these dishes on your next visit to fully experience St. Croix’s culinary heritage.

Each dish tells a unique story and captures a slice of the island’s vibrant culture—making your culinary journey as memorable as the breathtaking landscapes that surround you. Happy feasting!

KW Adventure Explorer