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- Karibuni
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- Sao restaurant
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- Ocean 82
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- Anse Marcel Beach Club
Saint-Martin
The Saint-Martin International Gastronomy Festival
Article and photography by Pierre Houle
Our visit to Saint-Martin coincided with the 2025 International Festival of Gastronomy, a festive and indulgent celebration of the Caribbean’s remarkable culinary heritage. Over several delicious days, we wandered through local markets, attended chef demonstrations, and—most memorably—dined at some of the island’s most celebrated tables. What follows is a gourmet tour of Saint-Martin’s standout restaurants, each offering its own expression of island flavor and flair.
Karibuni SXM – A Pure Escape
Accessible by boat from Cul-de-Sac, Karibuni on Pinel Islet is an ode to relaxed elegance and pristine freshness. Grilled spiny lobster straight from the sea, citrus-bright ceviches, and a perfectly crisp tartine spread with truffle mayonnaise and topped with fresh tuna and wakame deliver pure bliss. With the ocean just steps from your table, every bite feels sun-kissed.
Le Temps des Cerises – Bohemian Charm Meets Seaside Elegance
Set along the shoreline in Grand Case, this charming address delights with citrus-cured bluefin tuna carpaccio, creamy burrata over roasted tomatoes, and delicately pan-seared catch of the day. All are best enjoyed with a chilled glass of rosé as the sun dips below the horizon—a place where time seems to pause just long enough for an unforgettable meal.
Océan 82 – The Sea on Your Plate
From the moment you arrive, Océan 82 signals an exceptional gastronomic experience. Facing the open horizon, the restaurant boasts breathtaking ocean views. Nathalie still recalls it with shining eyes—especially the oyster and scallop tartare enhanced with fresh mango dice and a tangy citrus oil. One bite, and everything else fades away: the whisper of waves, the warm breeze, distant laughter—all merging into pure enchantment.
L’Atelier
Grand Case’s Temple of Dry-Aged Meats
A true haven for lovers of exceptional beef, L’Atelier excels with Black Angus ribeyes and impressive tomahawk steaks, cooked to perfection and served with impeccable care. Our beef tartare was prepared tableside, a rare and welcome nod to classic service. The chic bistro ambiance completes the experience.
Le Cottage – French Elegance with a Caribbean Touch
Le Cottage delivers refined French gastronomy infused with island influences. Standout dishes include pan-seared foie gras with exotic fruits, roasted scallops atop sweet-potato mousseline, and the unforgettable foie gras lasagna with morel sauce. Here, technical precision meets pure indulgence.
SAO – Refined Asian Fusion in Orient Bay
At SAO, Asian classics are reimagined with finesse and balance. Sushi and sashimi shine, while pad thai with giant shrimp and lacquered duck with tamarind sauce showcase bold yet harmonious flavors. The stylish lounge atmosphere and seamless service make this a must-visit address.
Le Pressoir – A Grand Case Institution
Consistently ranked among the finest tables in the Caribbean, Le Pressoir blends culinary refinement with a strong sense of terroir. Lobster Thermidor, local foie gras, crispy sweetbreads—and an egg with truffle so perfect it remains unforgettable—define a dining experience of true distinction.
Anse Marcel Beach – Discreet Luxury and Market Cuisine
Hidden within a secluded cove, Anse Marcel Beach Club offers market-driven cuisine built around ultra-fresh ingredients. Salt-crusted fish fillet, warm octopus salad, and leisurely breakfasts enjoyed to the sound of gentle waves make this a sanctuary for those seeking calm, elegance, and authenticity.
The 6th edition of the Saint-Martin International Gastronomy Festival will take place from November 11 to 22, 2026—a celebration where gastronomy reigns supreme and every meal pays tribute to the island’s beauty, diversity, and joie de vivre.
