St. John’s has quietly become one of the most rewarding dining destinations in the region. The city blends historic charm with a modern, creative energy that shows up directly on the plate. From cozy neighborhood bistros to upscale waterfront dining rooms, there is a table here for every kind of craving.
The local food scene is driven by a strong connection to the surrounding land and sea. Chefs work closely with farmers, fishers, and foragers to build menus that feel distinctly rooted in this corner of the country. That commitment to freshness and place gives the restaurant landscape a character you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or you’ve lived here for years, knowing where to eat makes all the difference. The best spots aren’t always the most obvious ones. Some are tucked down side streets, while others sit right along the harbor with views that rival the food.
This guide highlights a curated mix of long-standing favorites and newer standouts. Each one has earned a reputation for quality, consistency, and a genuine sense of hospitality. You’ll find options for special occasions, casual lunches, and everything in between.
Because dining out is about more than just the food, the atmosphere and service matter just as much. The restaurants featured here understand that balance. They create spaces where you want to linger, whether you’re sharing small plates or settling in for a multi-course dinner.
Below, you’ll find a list of the 15 best restaurants in St. John’s. Use it as a starting point to explore the flavors, stories, and people that make this city’s dining scene so memorable.
Ryan's Roadhouse
| Address | 902 E State St, St Johns, MI 48879 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (989) 224-2550 |
We stopped for a quick lunch. We shared a club sandwich and they even split it for us. Angela was a great server, quick, efficient and friendly. The restaurant and restrooms were very clean and neat.
I've been meaning to stop by Ryan's Roadhouse for a few years, the Monte Cristo was said to be one of the best. It really was delish! My son loves their wet burrito. The have a salad bar as well!
Me and a friend went to lunch on 02/07/26 for our first time. It was cozy, clean and staff were friendly. Our food came out exceptionally quick. I ordered the chicken quesadilla and took more than half home. Tasted great, big portions, Prices a bit high but not outrageous. Overall a very nice place to visit.
Drove over and hour for a date that stood me up- Thanks Jennifer! I like this place. Food was great and patio felt genuinely "outdoors". I might come up again just because. Lyndsey bartender was great and attentive.
First time in St. John’s Michigan. Do you happen to notice the sign when I came running in town? Ryan’s roadhouse said to get an eight dollar hamburger on the side. I got a hamburger onion rings for eight dollars which is mine blowing in the first place. This is one of the best hamburgers I’ve had in 10 years. Well done. I think I might’ve also met Ryan the owner right there in the bar. I’ll be back thank you.
Ember & Iron
| Address | 60 Shops Blvd Unit 80, St Johns, FL 32259 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: 4:00 – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 4:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (904) 531-5185 |
Impeccable every single time! Ember & Iron has become a consistent stop for us whenever we visit our son and his family, and it never disappoints.
Casey was our waitress this visit, and she was phenomenal! Friendly, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and wine pairings.
A few of our favorites: the crispy garlic parmesan potatoes, chicken bites, pork chop, chimichurri steak, shrimp and grits with smoked chorizo, pork chop, and the redfish with corn maque choux is absolutely unbelievable. Save room for dessert because the cookie à la mode is a must!
Want amazing service? Ask for Casey!
I just tried Ember & Iron for the first time. I loved the menu. They had so many great options. The corn bread skillet with the butter and pepper jelly was fantastic. I enjoyed the whole fried fish which was great too. Casey, our server, was very knowledgable and attentive. She made great cocktail recommendations. The manager also came over and checked on our table which was very appreciated too. I am excited to come back and try more of the menu.
Enjoyed a wonderful business dinner at Ember and Iron. The food was excellent and the waiter was kind and knowledgeable about the menu. Our party enjoyed a variety of menu items: Roasted chicken, Snapper, beet salad, and it was all delicious. Desserts took a while to arrive and they were great as well. I would suggest sharing as they are rich in flavor. Great time and I will definitely return when I am back in town.
Community Heart & Wood-Fired Soul
Big thanks to Cole and Laura Slate!
We finally made it out for their Hero Appreciation Week, and it was such a great night.
We had over two dozen community workers there—teachers, school staff, healthcare workers, military, and first responders. It’s so awesome that the Slate Team has been doing this for years to support everyone who keeps our community going. Cole is a total hero in our eyes for putting this together!
It was the first time for a lot of us at Ember & Iron, and it definitely lived up to the hype. Since everyone was getting off work at different times, we ended up at a few separate tables between 4 and 7, which worked out perfectly.
A huge shout-out to our waitress, Kayla L. She was so attentive and super friendly, and she gave us some of her favorite recommendations that were spot on.
Even with our group spread out, we felt totally relaxed and never rushed.
The food was excellent:The Skillet Cornbread with the pepper jelly is a absolute must.The Chimichurri Steak and 16oz Ribeye were perfectly cooked.The Cowboy Fries were the ultimate comfort food.For drinks, the "I Know the Owner" cocktail had a great smoky kick.
We’re so glad we finally got to try this place.
We’ll definitely be back!
Ok well this is the second time we had a wonderful experience here. Usually the first time is great and then it drops off. NOT here, if anything even better. The G.M Brian is so kind and inviting and makes sure the experience is nothing sort of amazing. Our server Zane was such a ki nd and caring young man and has such an amazing personality. We had the chimicurrri steak, cooked perfectly, as well as crabcakes, wing, black eyed peas(amazing wonderful flavor) and the best mac-n- cheese with their special twist you have ever had. Another *5* star meal!
Cruz Bay Landing
| Address | 6 D Cruz Bay Town, St John, VI 00831, USVI |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Phone | (340) 776-6908 |
We stopped by Cruzbay for a quick breakfast before a beach day in Saint John and it was a decent experience overall. The bagel was excellent and definitely the highlight of the meal. However, the overall food choices were a bit limited and nothing else really stood out. The service was very good and the staff were friendly and attentive. The cappuccino was served in a very generous sized cup, which was a nice touch, but it wasn't as hot as we would have liked. It is conveniently located right by the ferry terminal, making it a great spot to grab a quick bite before heading out.
Had the Breakfast bowl! 10/10 highly recommend it was delicious and well priced! Also had the iced sweet bean latte and my friend had the iced chai. All were great and would go back! Service was kind and quick.
We’ve been starting each morning here with a vegan scramble, coffee, and mimosas to go, and it’s quickly become a favorite part of our routine. It’s just a short walk, which makes it even better. I especially love the option on the menu to “get the cooks a cold one”—I’ve never seen that anywhere else, and I can’t resist adding it every time. The food is consistently excellent, and the staff is genuinely warm and welcoming. A perfect way to kick off the day.
Location is extremely convenient, right outside of the ferry dock. Breakfast here was filling but kind of bland. I had the fish tacos and my husband had the huevos rancheros. Prices are a little high for what you get, but not exorbitant compared to prices everywhere else on the island. We loved the pineapple and grapefruit juices. I'd be interested in coming back to try their lunch & dinner options, but wouldn't bother returning for brunch.
This place was a breath of fresh air! We got off the ferry and they were immediately ready to seat us. Everyone was so kind and welcoming from the moment we walked in. The breakfast was hot, fresh, and absolutely delicious. Our server, Marge, was AMAZING — we loved her so much we joked about taking her home with us! She was genuinely happy, attentive, and provided incredible service. Overall, a 10/10 experience. Definitely choose this spot over the other options nearby — you won’t regret it.
High Tide
| Address | 4-B Wharfside Landing Cruz Bay, Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (340) 714-6169 |
So we really enjoyed our experience at High Tide, but to be clear, it’s a beach bar restaurant. It sits on the bay next to the ferry crossing, so to say it’s ocean-side viewing is generous but accurate.
Parking was difficult, and we surrendered to Slim Man parking for $20. The spacious dining area with a great happy hour and dinner menu comes out at 5:00. We got there for the lunch menu and were glad we did because we got sandwiches which were great. Candidly, nothing on the dinner menu blew our minds.
The tuna sandwich with wasabi and arugula was fantastic, and the tuna was prepared perfectly! We also got shrimp tacos that were better than the sandwich for what it’s worth. Our server, who didn’t give us her name, was sweet and attentive and even brought a cask of water without us asking.
At the end of the day, High Tide delivered as advertised. Couple of last thoughts if you’ve read this far: Park at the MVD and walk; it’s not that far and free. Get the Key Lime Pie; it was outstanding but pretty typical of the area. Breakfast before the ferry is the way to go! They watched our bags and it’s literally right next to the ferry! Lastly, stop at the merch store and grab a t-shirt, which are some of the best I’ve seen so far!
If you're going to be in Cruz Bay for more than a day you will surely go by High Tide. Servers are hustling for sure, and service overall was very good. We had dinner and breakfast here and both meals were great. They have a full list of cocktails and a full bar as well. It's a casual, no-reservation place with plenty of options on the menu.
Leaving St John on the ferry after visiting Trunk Bay. Saw the restaurant and decided to try it out. I got the fish and chips. Wife got the shrimp tacos. Ordered the chips and house made salsa. Everything was FANTASTIC! Loved it! Service and drinks good also. Would recommend to everyone.
The food here was excellent, the Mahi tacos are the best food ever! The staff were friendly and attentive. You gwt to sit right by the water, watching people and boats. The island chickens come and go. The painkiller was good, stronger than others that we tried.
We had Sunday lunch here outside. Shaded with a breeze but in late June a bit humid and warm. Still totally enjoyable.
Food and drinks were excellent. I had the rare seared tuna sandwich and my wife had two tacos - shrimp and mahi. She cooks a lot and is very discriminating but said they were a fresh and flavorful as any she has had.
41 North Tavern
| Address | 8101 Wicker Ave, St John, IN 46373 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Phone | (219) 341-6227 |
traveling with our two huskies cross country we’re always looking for a beautiful patio to share our dinner with the dogs and this delivered on steroids, especially in the 95° heat. The patio was completely in the shade and adjacent to a lovely pond that supported a beautiful fountain. The server could not have been nicer bringing our dogs multiple servings of water they got to spread out and the cocktails were very nicely prepared a nice selection and imaginative. The pork chop was perfectly cooked and delicious as was the mahi-mahi and Angela pasta. We have enough for lunch today. Highly recommend.
Plenty of parking, the place is like a huge wooden cabin with lots of sitting areas including an outside patio overlooking by a pond and some woods. They also have a full service bar outside with delicious drinks. There where live bands playing when we where there and was told they always have live music and dj. The staff is amazing, everyone smiled and said hello to us. They have plenty of tvs playing every single game that’s on with a huge scoreboard showing standings and rankings for every sport. Food and drinks did not disappoint, everything we had was absolutely delicious. We will definitely be going back.
Pros:
They’re friendly and the beer is a good price
Cons:
This has to be worst Mac and cheese I ever tasted. It’s definitely the worse lobster Mac and cheese. It’s basically taste like a nasty box Mac and cheese with lobster sprinkled on top. And I bit into a shell 2nd bite. They should take this off the menu. I’m also confused because the 4.7 rating gives the impression the food is good. I don’t know if people here are just being nice or no one in Schererville has taste buds or if everything else is better but I don’t even want to eat out for a little bit. I don’t even trust restaurants anymore. Even the breadstick was nasty. I would’ve rather burned the $25 I spent on this that would at least been fun story. Again nice , but come on, yall dead wrong for selling me this. The pictures of the food on their website is very much a catfish. Look at the picture from their website vs what I got. ITS FRAUD and false advertisement!!!!! $25 on Mac and cheese just to throw it out.
Formerly Northwoods restaurant, this new and very much improved restaurant has it all! The whole place is built like a beautiful rustic log cabin complete with fireplace and beautiful lights giving all the cozy vibes! There’s a scenic outdoor seating area as well with a small pond with fish (they even give you fish food to feed them)! The food was excellent and hit the spot! We ordered a cowboy burger and fish and chips. Our server was Corina and she was wonderful! This place is a gem!!
I had heard mixed reviews about this place but I wanted to see for myself! & I can say , I was happy I decided to give this place a try! Unfortunately, as I wanted to sit on the patio it was a litttle too chilly but it was definitely spacious and would be perfect for summer! We opted to sit at the bar! Our server was great and kept up with us! We ordered wings and burgers. The BBQ wings were HUGE and very tasty! I order a regular burger and it was delicious and I take my burger very seriously! The fries…. PERFECTION! Fresh, hot, crunchy, skin on! I definitely enjoyed my time here on a Sunday around 5pm. It wasn’t toooo busy but customers were definitely coming and going! i would recommend and will be coming again!
The Longboard
| Address | USVI, Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM Sunday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (340) 715-2210 |
The drinks and food make this place a must-go! This was the first place we visited getting to the island and it was an excellent start to the adventure!
Our server was excellent and gave us recommendations for the area.
We recommend the tropical poke bowl with hamachi and the fresh ceviche. After a long day of travel, these were filling dishes without being too heavy. They hit the spot!
The Longboard is great! Not a five-star for me, but it just doesn’t “excel” at anything. Our service was great, the clean dining area was great, the food was great…it was great.
Having said that, it’s a beach bar vibe like most places. Open-air seating, no AC, and beach club motif. In this case, it’s a one-page menu of food and drinks, serving ceviche, sushi wraps, and poke bowls…that’s it. Some appetizers, but that’s the menu as you’ll see in pics.
We ordered an F-bomb frozen drink that was COMPLETELY refreshing on a warm day. Happy hour is early 2:00-4:00, so know that if going for dinner. For entrees, I got a Tropical Poke bowl with tuna (they also offer two other kinds of fish). It was chock-full of pineapple, pickled onions, sushi rice, and other goodies. In other words, a typical fresh poke bowl. Our other entree was a jerk chicken lettuce wrap with chili flakes that was really good and deceptively filling.
At the end of the day, this was a great meal and atmosphere, and we would return if we have exhausted all options in Cruz Bay.
We stopped by Longboard during happy hour for a quick bite with the family and it turned out to be an amazing experience. The service was excellent from start to finish — friendly, attentive, and fast. The food was equally impressive and did not disappoint. If you're looking for a must-order, go for the fish tacos — they were absolutely amazing and stole the show.
Had early evening dinner at Longboard. Second time dining during our visit and it was just as excellent as the first time. Some excellent cocktails (Painkiller and FBum were favorites). Brussels and wings great starter, then some great entrees. All good, but can't go wrong w fried rice or the bowls. Monica was our server and she did an excellent job (both relaxed and very attentive). Will definitely return.
May plan another trip to St. John on the basis that I liked the cocktails here so much. The Beach Buzz was an immediate favorite and I had it multiple times, but the swell chaser was also amazing that I honestly can't say which I liked more. Although the Beach Buzz lasts longer if you steal the ice cube for your water. 😁 The crispy Brussels were filling and delicious. I had them a second time as well. My only complaint is happy hour ends too soon! I'd get back from hiking/beaching too late and blow my budget on full price drinks. The staff here was great though, and The Longboard will definitely be a special memory of my trip - well worth full price. Shoutout to Korena for amazing drinks and taking great care of customers. ❤️
Karma Beach Lounge
| Address | Wharfside Village, St John, Cruz Bay, St John 00831, USVI |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (305) 318-9599 |
Easily one of the best meals we had in the island this week. Colencia was our server and did a wonderful job. The food was perfection in every way - presentation & flavor.
We started with the poke nachos as an appetizer followed by a spicy tuna roll. For main courses I had the 2lb fresh catch which was a whole red fish. My wife had the Chilean sea bass and we had a side of coconut rice.
They had Clark Estate wines which we were not familiar with but found to be quite enjoyable and well matched with the fish.
Oh yes the views here are amazing at sunset.
The hostess was extremely welcoming. We arrived very early to our reservation and were still able to be seated immediately. The decor and ambience of the restaurant are great. There is live music, and it is right on the beach. Our food was pretty good. They didn’t tell us that water cost money, so just be aware that a bottle is $10. Other than that, we had a great experience. The staff were all very nice.
We went here for dinner on a Saturday night. This restaurant was beautiful, and our waiter, Francisco, was so sweet and attentive. I got the truffle cream fettuccine, which tasted nice. I will say, I do believe they are a bit overpriced. The mashed potatoes also didn’t have much flavor. When we inquired about a dessert for the birthday girl, the brownie was $20. While the food tasted good overall, I don’t think it was really worth the price. It’s also very close to where you get off the ferry, which was a nice convenience.
Karma Beach Lounge is a nice, high-end spot with a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. The views are fantastic and the overall setting makes for a very enjoyable experience. The service was good.The drinks are solid and pair nicely with the scenery. The one downside is that the food doesn't quite live up to the ambiance — it's decent but not really up to the standard you'd expect from a place like this. The lounge is conveniently located very close to the ferry station, making it a great stop if you have some time to kill before your ferry departs. Overall a good spot to relax and unwind.
The food, experience, and atmosphere was amazing! We had Jay as our server. She was helpful in providing us with great options to choose from on the menu. She gave us the most amazing service and truly welcomed us. We celebrated my friend's birthday and she made my friend and I feel extra special.
This is a great place to come to for any occasion!
Lime Out St. John
| Address | Coral Harbor Saint John, Coral Bay, St John 00830, USVI |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Thursday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Friday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Phone | (340) 643-5333 |
My wife and her friend booked this boat trip to get to Lime Out One day while in Saint John. Our taxi driver from st Thomas said it was a tourist trap. We took 4 adults and 4 kids ages 6-12 on the boat swam out and had 2 floating pads that you sit and eat at. The boat ride said it guarantees you a spot. We ordered and kept ordering but about 30-40 mins in to our 2 hour block a buck of boats pulled up and another server the manger a women was pretty rude about moving the 4 kids to our raft with the 4 adults. After that we left early. There was plenty of room at the swim up bar. The food was good drinks were good but the service turned me off. I tip on experience not the bill. They lost easily 50$ more that day only tipped 20%. Prices are typical Virgin island prices. Our boat captain Justin was absolutely outstanding though! If you go here wouldn’t recommend bringing kids and bring a credit card.
Lime out is a must if visiting St. John! Tacos are outstanding, drinks are wonderful, atmosphere can’t be beat. You are on the water, eating tacos, what more could you want?! Our waitress, Kara, was outstanding! 10/10 all around. We will definitely be back!
Loved our experience at Lime Out today! The tacos and drinks were amazing and the floating taco bar was such a vibe! Terra was awesome and made the experience that much better. Definitely one of our favorite spots in St John!
We absolutely loved our experience at Lime Out! Nolan and Terra made it even better. We brought 3 kids with us and they were very accommodating! If you visit STJ, you won't want to miss a Lime out trip!
What a unique and fun experience! The views were amazing, the service was friendly and fun, the drinks are fun and potent, and the tacos were creative and oh so good. Some of the best food we had while in St John! Cool merch, too!
The Lime Inn
| Address | St. John, 2C Vester Gade, Cruz Bay, St John 00831, USVI |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM Thursday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM Friday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: 3:00 – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (340) 776-6425 |
The Lime Inn has a great selection of tacos and a solid drink menu. The tacos are a little on the pricier side, and the server recommended ordering two, but they're surprisingly filling. Depending on how hungry you are and whether you order an appetizer, one taco could be enough. They offer a nice variety of options, including meat, seafood, and vegetarian tacos. I tried the eggplant and chickpea taco topped with feta cheese and jalapeños, and while it sounded a little adventurous, it ended up being absolutely delicious. It was so good that I want to try recreating it at home. The clam chowder was also very tasty. If you're looking for creative tacos and good drinks, The Lime Inn is definitely worth checking out!
Top tier food and beverages. 10 out of 10 We started with some awesome cocktails spun by Tommy. Great mixologist and very informative on his drinks, rum, and the full menu. The taco's were unique and amazing. Perfectly build with each component of high quality. In fact they were so good I had a third taco instead of dessert. Tommy's young assistant was also amazing!
Tommy at the Lime Inn bar made us the most delicious cocktail we’ve ever had in our lives. Also the tacos and dessert here are delicious. Highly recommend!
We sat at the bar and had a great experience with Sarah & a male bartender who I forgot the name of. They were both super nice & provided great service. We got the guacamole with homemade tortilla chips and it was delicious. Probably some of the best guacamole I’ve had! I got the G’Day Mate and the Galileo taco. Both were incredibly tasty and fresh, but the Galileo was probably one of my favorite things I’ve had to eat this year! I’m debating on going back just to have that taco again. I would happily come back here if I were to come back to the island.
Service was amazing! Very attentive. Did is top shelf. Everything was so fresh. Recommended here versus Lime Out, obviously more shade.
Swany's Turks Tavern
| Address | 310 N Clinton Ave, St Johns, MI 48879 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (989) 224-9262 |
We stopped in within an hour of closing while visiting which is sometimes dangerous. Not in this case, we were greeted with smiles, recommendations and fresh delicious food. My picture isn't doing it justice but I'm telling you, if you like peanut butter.... Try the Scotty!!! I've had other PO peanut butter burgers but this was so unique with an actual pb& jelly spread of sorts.
The Island Saute was no slouch either. And beer battered fries... Who does that?! That do... And they do them well! Will definitely be back any time we're in the area!
Super glad I decided to go here for dinner today! Great burgers at great prices! They even had some unique options. My buddy had a burger with peanut butter and jelly on it. I thought it was funny but he really liked it! The waitress was awesome! She was really kind and did a great job. The fresh chips are great and so are the beer battered fries! Love it!
A local favorite. I am never disappointed. No matter how busy they are, the service is always exceptional and the food is delicious!
I ordered the olive burger & battered fries. It was amazing. I highly recommend adding grilled onions to it! I loved the atmosphere & the staff were incredibly friendly. I'll make sure to visit again!
Very nice waitress that got our drinks and order in within 3 minutes of being seated. They have the Club Keno lottery going on 3 of the 6 TV's. The fries were delicious an they have a great rubin. Overall, a nice local restaurant in town.
Oliver's Restaurant
| Address | 160 Water St, St. John's, NL A1C 1A9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (709) 754-6444 |
Went to Oliver's for lunch. The restaurant is very cozy, clean, and had an upscale vibe. Service was friendly and welcoming. However, it was busy for the number of staff, and the service was very slow. Tried to order the Cod Tongues, but they were out of them. Had the Seafood Chowder and pan seared cod, both of which were good.
Very atmospheric little restaurant and it actually gets more busy around 2pm than when I walked in around 1pm, so maybe there is a tendency people like to eat late here. Super sweet and nice service.
Highly recommend the cod tongue and Pelee island Riesling. Cod togue is very chewy and crispy at the same time, never had something like that before.
We had a reservation for 4 for dinner on Sunday May 24th at 5:30pm. We show up to the restaurant and are seated at a booth that is quite tight and the table can’t be moved. We asked our server if we can be seated elsewhere as it is uncomfortable trying to sit there. She made a big deal about it stating that they are totally booked for the night and yet there was only another couple there. She looked at her layout and finally agreed to move us, but not where we wanted. The table couldn’t be adjusted and we had 2 very hard wooden chairs.
She came back and took our drink orders and my wife ordered a bottle of wine. The server said I haven’t sold that in ages and making a scene. She then came back and said we don’t have it in stock. We then ordered another bottle of wine.
A man came in by himself saying he had reservations and he was seated in the booth we wanted! He thought maybe he would be at a table for 2.
We put in our orders and the starter arrived and no issues. Our main course came out, food was hot but I thought my fish was a bit over cooked.
I think had the server been more willing to let us sit where we wanted we would have had a better experience. We had gift cards and if we didn’t have those I would have walked out. I did send an email and I never received a response. This is the seafood platter
We had a fabulous dinner here to celebrate our anniversary. Everything was excellent from the service, to the food to the ambiance. We had the salad, seafood chowder, balsamic chicken fettuccine and the baked almond goat cheese appetizer.
Oliver's is small and cozy, but was ice cold and overly air-conditioned the day we dined.
In spite of arriving just after a group of 12, we were served promptly and didn't have to wait long for our food, which was excellent. The lobster linguine was loaded with succulent lobster meat and flavored delicately with an unconscious but not heavy cream sauce. The porkchop with cherry sauce was properly cooked and moist.
Creme brulee for dessert was bland and needed more vanilla flavor.
The wine list is limited, but a Spanish white, the Pablo Claro chardonnay was a decent match for the lobster dish.
Service was friendly and timely.
Expect to pay about $50 per person.
Recommended.
The Banana Deck
| Address | Bay St, Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (340) 693-5055 |
Very good! One of the places my husband asked if we could go to twice (he said it was his favorite). He had the ribeye- says it was the best one he had on the island... I had the seafood special, which was delicious. The conch fritters were amazing. Their dessert is also super good! Save room and get it 🙂 Thank me later. We did have reservations and they got us right in.
This is a fun location for a nice dinner. The bartender was our server and he was excellent. Good service is refreshing. We had drinks and wonderful entrees that we both enjoyed. Our sever was nice enough to share some bug spray with me after I got bit by a mosquito. If you like a nice view, fun bar area, and very tasty food you should check it out.
The food tasted good overall, and the service was excellent. We ordered the curry shrimp with rice and the Caribbean chicken, and both were enjoyable. The cocktails were also quite nice. The only thing I didn’t really like was the fried plantains in the curry dish.
Absolutely amazing experience from start to finish! The service was outstanding—everyone was friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome. The food was fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly, and the drinks were just as impressive. Everything came out quickly, and the atmosphere made the experience even better. You can tell they truly care about their customers. We’ll definitely be back and highly recommend this place to anyone looking for great food, excellent drinks, and top-notch service!
Thoroughly enjoyed eating here on one of our dinner dates while on vacation. Our hostess did everything! She was amazing and I told her so. She seated, she answered the phone while setting up tables, she took our orders and served people quick! The food was delicious!
Hills Corner Pub
| Address | 200 N Clinton Ave, St Johns, MI 48879 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (989) 227-7700 |
Zoe & Staff were AWESOME! Very attentive and friendly. Open atmosphere with sports memorabilia theme & lots of big TV’s. Also, electronic darts, pool table, private room, outdoor dining. Great suggestions in menu, of which the Maple Bourbon Grilled Chicken sandwich was very yummy! We will definitely come back when in town! Nice to meet you ladies 😎
The smash burgers are on point. Also highly recommend the wings. They are house smoked and flash fried. Dig the buffalo but the sweet Thai chili is really good too.
Great Food & Drinks! Keep up the great job. Fries are great! We will be back! Much better than last place!
St John's needed hills corner. When you walk in, you're greeted by smiles, and fun music.
While most places in St. John's tend to use canned, and or boxed ingredients, hills delivers fresh food with fresh ingredients.
The prices are great, and everything is seasoned very well. 10/10 will be back!
I liked everything about this restaurant. This was my first visit. I tried the loaded french fry bowl (actually 3 of us did, and one sister got the BBQ boneless wings). Everything was really delicious and filling. I recommend it. I will be back!
Blue On Water
| Address | 319 Water St, St. John's, NL A1C 1B9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (709) 754-2583 |
Delicious food as always!! And the service is just amazing. We’ve been here a couple times and will make it a go-to for celebrating special occasions. Not to sound too pretentious, but I was recently in Italy, and the gnocchi and arancini is the closest to authentic Italian food I’ve had in Canada since I’ve been back!! 11/10!!
We ate here in the dining room with a large group for a family birthday. Both the food and service were amazing. I had reached out in advance regarding a food allergy and the restaurant took my questions and concerns very seriously. I can't say enough good things about our server. I believe her name was Mary Kate, I hope I have that correct. She was an extremely professional and proficient server and she deserves a big shout out.
Thank you very much Blue on Water. We hope to visit again next time we are in St. John's.
Tried to get in to another nearby restaurant that was full and they recommended Blue On Water. We got the last table for two. Happy accident! Should have made reservations! I had the Salmon. I’ve had a lot of salmon and it’s my go to dinner so I almost decided not to for a change. Best salmon I’ve had. Cooked perfectly. Moist and flaky with a pan seared crisp. Yum! Potatoes were creamy deliciousness. Asparagus is always hit or miss it seems due to overcooking or spears that are too large but this was a hit. Again done to perfection. My husband had the seafood pasta.He said it was delicious only wished there was a little more pasta. We both cleaned our plates! My only negative would be it bothers me a 5 oz glass of wine is $17. But I know that’s fairly standard. Service was great and timely. Enjoyed the atmosphere and we were on the lounge/bar side of the restaurant.
If you’re lucky enough to snag Blue on Water’s barrel booth, you’ve already won lunch. 😄
We walked in, skipped the wait, and landed in one of those cozy little booths that somehow make your meal feel like a special occasion.
I ordered the lobster roll with Parmesan truffle fries, and let’s just say… there wasn’t a single fry left standing. The lobster roll was fresh, buttery, and packed with flavour, while the fries were dangerously addictive.
The patio on the Pedestrian Mall was absolutely packed—which is no surprise once you taste the food.
Blue on Water is one of those rare places where I never wonder if it’ll be good… I just wonder why I don’t come here more often. Fantastic food, friendly service, and another meal that reminded me why this place stays near the top of my favourites. 🦞✨
I don’t ever leave reviews, but this place absolutely deserves 6/5 score. Food is everything you expect- fresh, tasty, great presentation and a good portion size. Best breakfast I’ve had in Newfoundland so far!
Al Dente's
| Address | 90 Shops Blvd Unit 60 Unit 60, St Johns, FL 32259 |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM |
| Phone | (904) 217-3255 |
We have eaten at Al Dente's in St. Johns many times, and it remains one of our favorite restaurants. We returned for a full Culinary Duo review expecting another excellent meal, but the kitchen surprised us with a tasting that showcased just how much technique and attention to detail go into their food.
We started with the calamari, prepared with prime rings without tentacles and sautéed with sliced peppers. Tender, flavorful, and different from the typical calamari plate, it earned one of our Best of the Best Dish Awards.
Their gnocchi is another longtime favorite and Best of the Best winner. It is sautéed and finished with a white wine bath, creating a wonderful texture that separates it from traditional boiled gnocchi.
The short ribs became our third Best of the Best selection. The beef was fall-apart tender with mushrooms and a port-based sauce that added a subtle sweetness and incredible depth. Rich garlic and herb mashed potatoes and sautéed seasonal vegetables completed an outstanding plate.
The salmon with lobster ravioli was another highlight. The salmon was a thick, beautifully cooked cut, tender and moist. What really elevated the dish was the addition of actual lobster claw meat over the salmon and ravioli, all complemented by a wine sauce. We love when a restaurant takes that extra step instead of simply serving lobster ravioli and stopping there.
Next came beef tenderloin medallions with white truffle mushroom risotto and seasonal vegetables. The tenderloin was beautifully prepared, while the risotto combined mushrooms, cream, Parmesan, truffles, and white truffle oil for a rich, earthy complement to the beef.
The chef finished our tasting with a Dubai chocolate pistachio tart, beautifully presented with chocolate drizzle and whipped cream. It was incredibly rich and decadent, with that wonderful combination of pistachio and dark chocolate.
What impressed us most was the consistency from one course to the next. There really wasn't a weak plate in the tasting.
Our Culinary Duo score: 58/60, ★★★★★ 5 Stars.
Al Dente's remains one of our Favorite Tables Around Town. If you are looking for an elevated Italian dinner or a great date-night restaurant in St. Johns, this belongs on your list. Check out our food photos before you go, but be warned, they may make deciding what to order even harder.
Absolutely. Here’s a strong Google review:
5 Stars
Al Dente’s is hands down the best Italian food in town. This is a hardworking, family-owned restaurant, and you can feel that in everything they do. The food is always fresh, delicious, and made with care.
They have also taken amazing care of us at our Christmas party, and everything was perfect. Great food, great service, and a team that truly cares about their customers.
If you want real Italian food and a place that treats you like family, Al Dente’s is it. Highly recommend!
In my experiences, Italian restaurants are a dime a dozen. But once in a while, you find that diamond in the rough and this place IS IT! From the moment we walked in to paying the bill, the staff was phenomenal. They were friendly, accommodating, informative, suggestive, and it was an all around fantastic experience.
I had the Gnocchi with pink sauce and added blackened chicken. The chicken was perfectly seasoned and grilled. The gnocchi was sooo good. The Seafood Rissotto was amazing - just the right amount of sauces and flavors to not be overdone but full, complete, and complementary.
The drinks were amazing, especially the pistachio martini. Some of the best calamari I've eaten - lightly breaded and fried, not rubbery or chewy. And the bruschetta was also great, including the presentation.
Overall, top notch experience, mouthwatering food, and absolutely wonderful service.
HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY recommended!
We tried all of the appetizers the other night and they were all a hit. One our families favorites though was the garlic shrimp and then dipping the bread in the sauce! Great bar staff and drinks as well. All of the servers and staff were friendly and attentive.
I made a reservation ahead of time and mentioned that we had a special event, my wife's birthday. We were seated promptly and it seemed that they were just winding down from happy hour and the early dinner rush. The table seating was a bit awkward or crammed but we made due. We were handed off between people and asked several times for a kids menu only to find out they did not have one? Our waitress let us know verbally what was available for the 6 year old. There was some confusion as to which wines could be sampled. We ordered some wine samples and blackened fish bites for an appetizer. The fish bites and the sauce were great, very tasty. We then ordered our food and this is where our evening shined. I think that each of us were only able to eat half of our dishes due to the generous portions. I had beef medallions over pasta and might I say they were done wonderfully. The food is amazing. Even the spaghetti with a meatball for our 6 year old grandson was great! We will definitely go back again, perhaps at a different time. The other bummer was although I included the special occasion on my reservation, no mention was made of it while we were there. I did not ask about it and we just pressed on. The food is worth the trip.
Tips for Choosing the Right Restaurant in St. John’s
The right restaurant depends on the occasion, your company, and what you’re hoping to experience. A little planning goes a long way, especially during peak tourist season or on weekends when the most popular rooms fill up quickly. These practical tips will help you match the moment to the menu and avoid common booking mistakes.
Reserve early, especially Thursday through Saturday. The best tables in St. John’s often book out several days in advance. If you have your heart set on a specific spot, call ahead or use an online reservation platform as soon as your plans are firm.
Ask about the daily catch or seasonal specials. Menus here change frequently based on what’s coming off the boats and out of local gardens. Asking your server what’s fresh that day is the simplest way to eat like a local and taste the region at its peak.
Consider the neighborhood when planning your evening. Downtown and the waterfront are walkable and ideal for a pre-dinner stroll, while spots slightly outside the core often offer easier parking and a quieter pace. Think about what you want before and after the meal.
Don’t overlook lunch service. Many of the city’s best restaurants offer lunch menus that are more affordable and easier to book than dinner. It’s a smart way to sample a top-tier kitchen without committing to a full evening out.
Be open to bar seating. If reservations are unavailable, sitting at the bar often gives you the same menu with a front-row view of the kitchen or cocktail program. It can also be a more social, relaxed way to experience a busy restaurant.
Mention dietary needs when booking. St. John’s chefs are generally very accommodating, but advance notice helps the kitchen prepare something thoughtful rather than reactive. This is especially true for vegan, gluten-free, or serious allergy requests.
The beauty of St. John’s is that you can build an entire trip around food and still leave with a list of places you missed. That’s a good problem to have. Each meal here tells you something about the city’s history, its landscape, and the people who call it home.
Start with one or two names from this list, then let your own curiosity lead the way. Ask your server what they love on the menu, walk down a street that smells good, and give yourself permission to eat slowly. In St. John’s, the table is always a good place to be.
