Since I moved to Nassau, I had more misses than hits when it comes to eating out. But thanks to recommendations from friends and some good luck, I’ve built a short list of faves that I can count on for a delicious meal.
A bit about me to put my recommendations into perspective: After living in South India, I developed a preference for more citrus acid and bold flavors. I have a low spice tolerance so you won’t see anything spicy on my list of go-to’s. I love good value for money so most of the higher priced menu items are two meals-worth of portions. For me, friendly service goes a long way, and luckily that’s the default in Nassau.
The Cricket Club
- Type of cuisine: Bahamian
- What to expect: A local favorite that’s proud of its history. Service is slow but friendly. Outdoor and indoor seating (with A/C).
- Go-to order: Grilled snapper with double plantains ($24 as of June 2025)
- Tip: The indoor seating is very dark and cool so I prefer sitting outside. Plus, you may get lucky and see a cricket match.
- Check out the menu
Lime@Home
- Type of cuisine: Trinidadian
- What to expect: A neighborhood bar with friendly staff and regulars. Average decor. Indoor seating only.
- Go-to order: Doubles ($4 as of June 2025)
- Tip: I prefer to order my food for takeout. Since the food can take 20+ minutes to prepare, I recommend calling ahead to order.
- Check out the menu
Up in Smoke Smokehouse
- Type of cuisine: Barbecue
- What to expect: Great music and vibes. Food comes out pretty fast! Well-positioned plants nicely hide your view of the main road. Outdoor seating only.
- Go-to order: Combo brisket and chicken ($30 as of June 2025)
- Tip: This is exceptional barbecue. Reminds me of my mother’s, which is hard to beat!
Gladstone Road Farmers’ Market
- Type of cuisine: Multiple
- What to expect: Medium-sized market with produce, meats, prepared foods, personal care products, and more! No seating.
- Go-to order: Shrimp fritters ($7); cabbage and saltfish with festivals ($8); soursop and ginger juice ($4 as of June 2025)
- Tip: This market is only open on Saturdays from 8am to around 3pm.
Cakeman
- Type of cuisine: Baked goods
- What to expect: The man. The myth. The legend. A professional baker who has pop-ups and delivers.
- Go-to order: Apple cheesecake ($6) and shrimp quiche ($7 as of June 2025)
- Tip: On Friday nights, you can usually catch Cakeman at Dino’s Gourmet Conch Salad around 6pm and on Paradise Island later in the evening.
Bon Vivant’s
- Type of cuisine: Bahamian and International
- What to expect: A place of duality: coffee and cocktails, luxe and homely. Very serious about their mixology. Only light bites available. Outdoor and indoor seating (with A/C).
- Go-to order: Spinach and cheese quiche ($8); iced latte with homemade whipped cream ($6 as of June 2025)
- Tip: This is a place where striking up a conversation with strangers is the norm, especially if you’re sitting outside or at the bar. Enjoy getting to know someone new!
- Check out the menu
You've Come A Long Way 