Top 7 Must-Try Dishes in Antigua

The Caribbean island of Antigua was built on food. Originally settled as the site of sugar plantations and rum distilleries, Antigua in recent years has become a culinary destination because of the wealth of seafood in its oceans, the quality rums in its glasses, and the joy in its people. Below, discover seven foods you must try when you visit the island’s pearlescent shores.

1. Conch

Address: Dockyard Drive, Antigua and Barbuda

Phone: +1 268-481-5021

Visit website

Like most Caribbean islands, Antigua excels in seafood, and conch is one of the most popular meats. Conch (pronounced conk) is the meat inside the spiral shells that wash up on the West Indies’ sandy beaches. It can be prepared in curries, fritters, chowders, and ceviches.

One of the best places to savor conch is at the Copper and Lumber Hotel’s Friday Night Seafood Buffet, renowned as one of the best fish fries in the Caribbean. Located at the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site Nelson’s Dockyard, this seafood extravaganza features crispy conch fritters and conch dishes, alongside other tempting options like the massive surf and turf.

2. Saltfish and Fungi

Address: Anchorage Road, St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

Phone: +1 268-773-0504

Saltfish and fungi (pronounced foon-ji) is the Antiguan national dish. Fungi is a local version of polenta or grits, made with cornmeal and okra. A staple in Antiguan diets, it pairs well with saltfish, a salt-cured flaked white fish.

If you want to experience this homestyle cuisine, head to Millers By the Sea in St. John’s, a beachside venue renowned for its local dishes and vibrant atmosphere. Here, locals gather to enjoy traditional meals, including the all-important saltfish and fungi.

3. Sipping Rum

Address: St John’s St, St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

Phone: +1 268-480-3200

Visit website

Rum is a significant part of Antigua’s culture, with Antiguan rum being less sweet than others. Antigua Distillery Limited produces high-quality rums like Cavalier and English Harbour. These rums are best enjoyed straight, and tours of the distillery offer a unique experience to learn about the rum-making process.

4. Rum Punch

Address: Hilda Davis Drive, Dickenson Bay St, St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

Phone: +1 268-464-0795

Visit website

Rum punch is the island’s favorite drink, with many claiming that the best can be found at Papa Zouk. The establishment features an extensive selection of over 200 rums, ensuring satisfaction for any taste. A must-try is the Ti’ Punch, combining high-quality rum, lime juice, and cane sugar.

5. Ducana

Ducana is an Antiguan sweet potato dumpling made by wrapping grated sweet potatoes and coconut in a banana leaf, followed by steaming. This dish provides a delightful, slightly sweet and spicy contrast to saltfish or conch.

6. Wadadli Beer

Beer may not be the first choice on a rum-centric island, but Wadadli beer stands out as unique to Antigua. This sweet lager, brewed on the island, is perfect for sipping on warm evenings. Given its limited availability outside the Caribbean, be sure to enjoy it while in Antigua.

7. Susie’s Hot Sauce

Address: 45F4+FPJ, North St, St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda

Phone: +1 268-461-0365

Hot sauce is a vital element of Caribbean cuisine, and in Antigua, Susie’s Hot Sauce reigns supreme. Founded in 1960 by Susie McMaster and now run by her daughter Rosemarie, the company offers a range of sauces from mild to spicy, perfect for enhancing the island’s seafood.