5 Best Restaurants in Aruba

The cheery Ritz-Carlton breakfast spot known as Solanio takes on a whole new identity in the evenings as it transforms into Casa Nonna (meaning "grandmother's house"), dedicated to serving up authentic Italian cuisine. Service is exquisite (they even have a cocktail cart), and you can taste the care put into the handmade pastas and sauces. Don't miss the Mediterranean sea bass or grilled octopus for that real Italian coastal flavor, too.   Snag a table outside to catch spectacular sunsets and soft live music by the firepit.

Don’t let the rustic decor fool you: this is not your average Italian resort eatery, though it's an inviting choice for large groups. Da Vinci pulls out all the stops to present a seriously upscale, authentic, and creative menu of Mediterranean favorites. Tucked away in the Holiday Inn, it’s well worth seeking out for killer incarnations of osso buco, homemade pastas, and seafood served Italian-style, plus great vegan options. There's also a fabulous wine room with a surprisingly comprehensive selection of vintages from around the world. It's family-friendly, too, with a kids' menu and big communal tables for groups. Dining at Da Vinci Ristorante is included in the resort's all-inclusive program.

Next to the iconic California Lighthouse in the former lighthouse keeper’s home, this restaurant is best known for its Italian fare and grand open-air terrace overlooking the rugged West Coast seascape. The menu offers a selection of gourmet pasta, pizza, risottos, fish, seafood, and meats served with classic Italian flair and an extensive wine selection. There are some good vegan options, too.

At one of Aruba's most legendary Italian eateries, part of the fun is watching chef Vittorio Muscariello prepare authentic Italian regional specialties in his open kitchen. The staff helps you choose wines from the extensive list and recommends portions of hot and cold antipasti, risottos, and pastas. Those on a tight budget should stick to the pizza offerings. As you leave, pick up some limoncello (lemon liqueur) or olive oil at the gourmet shop.

For first-rate Italian food, stellar sunsets, and an unpretentious environment, head to the Ritz-Carlton Aruba's indoor/outdoor Solanio. Large windows allow for lovely views from inside, and alfresco diners are treated to softly played live music, cooling trade winds, and a cheery bonfire. The food is carefully prepared in an open kitchen, and the atmosphere is casual. The smoky, braised short ribs make an outstanding start to the meal, and the risotto with wild mushroom and black truffle is woodsy and rich. Pizza and pasta menus have standout gluten-free options. Sunday brunch is becoming very popular.