5 Best Restaurants in Savaneta, Aruba

Flying Fishbone

$$$$ Fodor's choice

Opened in 1977, this was the first restaurant in Aruba to offer feet-in-the-water dining, and its insanely romantic seaside setting is why this legendary landmark is so worth the trek out to Savaneta. An international menu is designed to please all palates, but the real culinary draw is fish straight from the island’s most famous local fisherman’s pier, located a few doors over. The setting is enchanting, with fabulous sunset views giving way to the twinkling lights of tiki torches and lights set in the sea; even the indoor decor is awash with artificial stars.  Reserve well in advance for a table in the water.

Savaneta 344, Savaneta, n/a Aruba, Aruba
297-584–2506
Known For
  • “Savaneta’s Seafood History” featuring the very local catch of the day
  • individual-size baked Alaska, flambéed table-side
  • tables set right in the ocean
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: No lunch, Reservations essential

The Old Man and The Sea Restaurant

$$$$ Fodor's choice

The signature restaurant of Aruba Ocean Villas is tiny, but it’s well worth the trip for the romantic, toes-in-the-sand, adults-only dining experience with soft music and twinkling lights. The eclectic menu revolves around local seafood and fine quality meats with authentic Aruban specialties like keshi yena (stuffed cheese casserole). It’s also a great way to see this exceptional resort without committing to a stay. The restaurant caters to resort guests first, so reservations are mandatory. 

Marina Pirata

$$$

Locals and regular visitors in the know flock to this off-the-radar boathouse-style restaurant for fresh fish and seafood, as well as the melt-in-your-mouth filet. Spectacular sunset views are a given, and kids love seeing the abundant fish swimming all around the illuminated pier at night with underwater lights.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Mauchie Smoothies and Juice Bar

$

This colorful roadside stand, just before the Savaneta turn, has excellent smoothies and fresh juices, as well as healthy wraps and acai bowls. They also sell great organic herbal remedies made from local produce and have recently opened a second outlet in San Nicolas. Shaded benches and a big wooden swing add to the allure. 

Zeerovers

$

With a name that means "pirates" in Dutch, this alfresco restaurant sits right on the Savaneta pier, where the local fishermen bring in their daily catch. The menu is basic: the day's fish and other seafood, fried almost as soon as it's lifted out of the boat and served with sides of local staples like fried plantains. You can chase it all down with a cold local beer or homemade popsicles made from exotic local fruit. The restaurant is very popular with locals, so expect it to be busy, especially on weekends.

Savaneta 270A, Savaneta, n/a Aruba, Aruba
297-584–8401
Known For
  • freshest fish on the island
  • lively local hangout
  • picturesque sea view and sunsets
Restaurants Details
Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues.