Anguilla, most notable known for its pristine white beaches, clear blue waters and top-notch boutique resort brands, has also built a reputation as a Caribbean culinary treasure. Couples, girlfriends and families flock to the island year after year for relaxation, fine food, well-crafted wines and outstanding service hidden by those unaware of the culinary talents that lend their hand to restaurants and hotel properties.

Just a hop, skip and a jump from the bustling island of St. Maarten, guests can take a ferry to Anguilla to retreat away from that city-like atmosphere and eat their way throughout the island. Food options can make or break your vacation if you don’t have a great selection to choose from, so we’ve highlighted eight of the island’s best dishes, restaurants and destinations to plan your next foodie getaway this winter season.

Blanchards

Blanchards is undoubtedly one of the most famous restaurants in Anguilla. It rose to fame in A Trip to the Beach—a book written by Blanchards owners Bill and Melinda—which tells the story of how they came to own and operate one of Anguilla’s finest restaurants. The duo ditched the big city lifestyle for the slower pace of Anguilla to pursue new dreams on their “pursuit of happiness.” Blanchards offers a delectable offering of seafood and Caribbean offerings ranging from their mahi-mahi, crayfish and jerk chicken. Their only goal: create a place that made people feel “at home” when they walked through the door. And that’s exactly what they did.

Le Bistro at Santorini

Le Bistro at Santorini is CuisinArt Resort’s acclaimed triple-A, four-diamond restaurant run by renowned chef Jasper Schneider. Known for delicious pairings that compliment offerings from the extensive wine cellar, Le Bistro offers fresh, classic cuisine with a modern twist, focusing on “farm, sea, land” specialties.

Pimm’s at Cap Juluca Resort

Not only does Cap Juluca have impeccable customer service and some of the friendliest staff in the Caribbean, but the award-winning Moroccan-inspired resort also features three restaurants, including Pimm’s, a European-Caribbean fusion restaurant that earned a Wine Spectator 2011 Award of Excellence. The popular restaurant features a romantic view overlooking the beach, and features a wide selection of pasta and seafood dishes that are caught fresh daily. Start out with the lobster bisque, then sink your teeth into the jerk mahi-mahi or snapper. Either way, your night will end with a treat!

Sandy Island

Escaping from the main island of Anguilla to a secluded rustic restaurant on an offshore cay with some of the best Caribbean is a no-brainer. Sandy Island is a popular off-island getaway where you can enjoy a traditional drum-pan barbecue grill, lobster and crawfish dishes, signature rum punches and a panoramic views of the mainland. You can enjoy Sandy Island for lunch or spend a day of swimming and snorkeling at the beach.

Malliouhana Resort

Recently reopened after a three-year closure, Malliouhana’s signature restaurant is overseen by Chef Jeremy Bearman, former executive chef of five-time Michelin-starred Rouge Tomate in New York City. The all-new menu features modern interpretations on French favorites that were offered when the resort first opened way back in 1984, with dishes such as the tamarind glazed crescent duck, carrot gazpacho or any of the house-made pastas. The restaurant sits on an overcliff, where you can enjoy delicious cocktails from their extensive custom cocktail menu, or savor breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Firefly Restaurant

Want to learn about the history and culture of Anguilla while enjoying an authentic Caribbean buffet? A bit off the mainstream, the Mayoumba Folkloric Culture dinner at Firefly Restaurant is an interesting option for those looking to step outside of traditional dining options. The theater group offers folklore and funny island anecdotes that give you a better understanding of life as an islander, while enjoying a full dinner with your loved ones.

Ken’s BBQ

Fine dining restaurants are great when traveling, but sometimes you just want some good ol’ authentic jerk chicken from the side of the road. If you have a taste for juicy, smoked chicken and ribs, Ken’s BBQ is the place to go. A popular attraction amongst locals, this is a great opportunity for tourists to get a bona fide taste of what the island has to offer.