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Curaçao’s culinary scene has become seriously cosmopolitan in the past few years. Though you can still find places to get traditional, local dishes like iguana soup, keshi yena (seasoned meat wrapped in cheese and baked), and goat stew, the emerging generation of chefs has really raised the bar. Caribbean meets international with a side of nouvelle cuisine or farm-to-fork organic offerings. All combine for a cornucopia of tastes and flavors that meet world-class standards. And the range of locations where you can enjoy these creations is as eclectic as the fare. You’ll find romantic toes-in-the-sand surf-side spots, family-friendly air-conditioned emporiums, lush countryside gardens, and unique historic sites like forts and plantation houses all hosting diners. For authentic local-style lunches drop by the Old Market in Punda; or after the nightclubs, seek out one of the late-night snack trucks (truki pan) for cheap, yet satisfying, eats. Many beach bars also have fabulous fare for less than you’d expect to pay. But for the most part, fine dining will cost you what it’s typically worth, especially since almost every kind of food on this island needs to be imported from elsewhere.
What to Wear. Dress in restaurants is almost always casual (though beachwear isn't acceptable). Some of the resort dining rooms and more elegant restaurants require that men wear jackets, especially in high season; ask when you make reservations.
On a fabulous beach protected by man-made breakwaters, the stylish anchor of the Mambo Beach Boulevard complex offers first-rate fare at lunch and dinner. It also has a great beach bar, a massive pool and surf-side lounge, and daybed rentals. Lively pool parties, special events, and performances by hot DJs and live bands make this the place to see and be seen.
The sheltered terrace at La Bahia is so close to the harbor that it feels as if you can almost touch the passing ships. The menu runs the gamut from burgers and pastas to keshi yena (seasoned meat wrapped in cheese and baked) and other local specialties; this is also a great spot to relax with a cup of coffee or a cocktail.
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