Cayman's Culinary Landscape

Conch ceviche, mahi rundown, turtle stew; these are just some of the perhaps unfamiliar dishes you’ll find across the many menus of Cayman. Owing in part to its colonial history, the Islands are rooted in Jamaican cuisine; adopting seasonings like jerk and curry, and using traditional ingredients like coconut, plantain, cassava, callaloo and ackee. Dishes are often prepared with tuna, snapper and mahi, all of which are fished in Cayman’s waters. Unique to Cayman, and the larger western Caribbean region, a visit to the Cayman Islands is not complete without sampling these delicacies. 

But there are many more flavours to discover on this tiny island in the middle of the Caribbean Sea. We are a rich tapestry of cultures, with residents heralding from every corner of the world, bringing with them the customs and traditions of their homeland. You’ll often hear of Cayman as a ‘melting pot’ of cultures, and this is absolutely the case of its culinary scene. As well as traditional western Caribbean flavours, dishes often include hints of Spanish, Italian, Mexican, French and Japanese cuisines. This said melting pot is what distinguishes the Cayman Islands from other Caribbean destinations when it comes to food.

With that said, seafood is undoubtedly the star of the show in Cayman. With the abundance of fish, lobster, conch and other marine delights in the surrounding waters, it's no wonder that seafood features prominently on almost every menu. You’ll see many dishes cooked ‘Cayman-style’, keeping it simple and letting the natural flavours shine. Grilled or lightly seasoned, it's all about the freshness and quality of the catch. The Cayman Islands is considered the home of conch (pronounced conk!), a sea snail which has been used in Caymanian cooking for many years – and a must-try dish whilst on-Island. Discover the Islands' best seafood restaurants here. 

Being spoilt for choice is the only worry when it comes to dining. From the far reaches of East End and North Side, to the tip of West Bay, discover everything from upscale, waterfront establishments serving gourmet plates, to rustic beachside shacks dishing out local fish fry. And if you’re looking for a local watering hole, you’ll be pleased to know that the bar scene in Cayman is second to none, with new bars popping up all over in a bid to quench our thirst for a frequent sundowner.

The culinary scene in Cayman is a true reflection of the Islands’ vibrant culture and rich history. With an emphasis on fresh local ingredients, diverse influences and Caymankind hospitality, our beautiful Islands promise an unforgettable gastronomic experience for all.

And the beauty of Cayman? The continual stream of new restaurants that continue to be drawn to our already vibrant foodie scene! Find out more about Cayman’s newest additions to the culinary scene here.