Back for More: Jonathan Berg Discovers the Flavors of St. Maarten
When a destination leaves you wanting more, sometimes one visit simply isn’t enough. That certainly seems to be the case for travel writer Jonathan Berg of The Royal Tour, who returned to St. Maarten this year after first discovering the island in 2025.
Known for looking beyond the traditional tourist experience and exploring the history, culture, people and stories that shape a destination, Jonathan quickly found plenty to love about St. Maarten. One major aspect being the people of St. Maarten, you don’t come for anything but that connection. Whether this comes through a life story, a smile, hug or conversation at the bar, you’ll leave the island with a full heart, and stomach!
Because his return in 2026 was about food, finding the varied flavors of St. Maarten. And he did, but while he made strong connections with the people running the restaurants.
With St. Maarten Flavors as inspiration, Jonathan set out to experience the island's
diverse culinary scene, starting with the gems in Philipsburg: Carl & Son’s (also in Cole
Bay), Big Bastards, The Pier and his home for his stay, Seaview Beach Bar & Restaurant.
His tip for Carl & Son’s is to come early, as the stuffed johnny cakes are sold out well
before 9am, but between the donuts and pies, there are plenty of other baked goodies.
Big Bastard’s was a very fun experience, edgy and a tongue in cheek vibe, as owner Marcel intended it to be, and he nailed it. Paired with Canadian dishes with a Caribbean twist, like the lobster poutine, it is a must visit on the Boardwalk.
Other gems on the Boardwalk are The Pier, where you go for the Latin, intimate vibe as well as the best filled fish tacos. And if you prefer a more Dutch cuisine, Seaview Beach Bar & Restaurant it is, where they serve locally brewed beers, bitterballen and many other delicious menu items, while having access to an infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea…
Beyond Philipsburg, the flavors continued. Jonathan experienced vegan Caribbean cooking at the Freedom Fighters Ital Shack. This restaurant received a mention by non-other than Anthony Bourdain, and it deserves it.
Heading into Simpson Bay, Jonathan enjoyed breakfast at Zee Best Restaurant and totally understands where that name comes from after devouring their huevos rancheros, it is simply “zee” best.
Catch 21 is a newly opened restaurant in Port de Plaisance in Cole Bay, and as the name suggests, seafood is what you should go for here.
Jonathan also visited Maho, an area known for dining nightlife and entertainment. He tried Tortuga, which is right on the edge of Maho beach, during the day a fantastic place to spot planes, and at night waterfront dining.
St. Maarten isn’t called the culinary capital of the Caribbean for nothing, which shows in
the diversity of cuisines you can enjoy. Also, in Maho, you will find Spices of India with an extensive menu offering all the classic Indian dishes. The owner switched from selling jewelry to cooking after Hurricane Irma, and that was a worthy career switch. Jonathan will come back for the Paneer with a marinade of mint, cilantro, and green chilis.
You can’t miss an Italian meal on your itinerary, for Jonathan that was a visit to Roma, also in Maho. With a pizza oven important from Salerno, Italy, you know what you should order, and the pizza was indeed magnificent.
Throughout the culinary island tour, what stood out, wasn't simply what was served on the plate. As he puts it, the island's food is amazing and varied, but it is the people, stories and connections that make the experience even more memorable.
Perhaps the best indication of the impression St. Maarten has made on him is that, after two visits, his list of things to discover doesn't appear to be getting any shorter.
Want to experience St. Maarten through Jonathan's eyes? Explore his stories on The
Royal Tour:
Then start creating your own culinary journey through St. Maarten Flavors.
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