Papiamento Restaurant

A family-owned restaurant, open since 1983, should be on any Aruba to-do itinerary: Papiamento Restaurant.

The eatery has evolved from a charming 19th-century "cunucu" home into what its website describes as "a magical combination of museum and tropical paradise." Visiting is the perfect way to top off a game of golf at Tierra Del Sol Golf Course or a day sightseeing in Noord.

What sets Papiamento Restaurant apart is not just its historical building or its luscious gardens but its dedication to Aruban cuisine with a sophisticated twist. The restaurant showcases local flavors and ingredients while highlighting the rich bounty of the Caribbean. Seafood and meat lovers will marvel at the menu, which offers fresh fish and tender, flavorful steaks.

Papiamento Restaurant does not just serve food; it invites guests on a culinary adventure that tells the story of Aruba. The emphasis on family, both in the management and the dining experience, mirrors the close-knit community spirit of the island. 

Visit Papiamento Restaurant on your Caribbean getaway and discover why it captures the heart of Aruban hospitality, cuisine, and culture.

Vibe

The vibe at Papiamento Restaurant is an eclectic blend of elegance and tropical ease, making it a unique dining spot in Aruba. The exterior, with its lush, verdant gardens and striking colonial-era architecture, sets the stage for an exclusive yet inviting atmosphere. 

The ambiance at Papiamento Restaurant is all about creating an exclusive yet welcoming atmosphere. For that, patrons can thank Mrs. Lenie Ellis-van Welzen, whose creative vision and hands-on approach to decorating have made the eatery iconic. Diners will marvel at the European antiques, some dating back to the 1800s. 

Dining al fresco around the sparkling pool, surrounded by well-tended gardens and trees with string lights, offers a magical setting. No matter where you dine at Papiamento Restaurant, expect an exceptional dining experience.

Whether celebrating a significant occasion or enjoying a quiet, romantic dinner, the ambiance makes every visit memorable. The attention to detail, from the setting to the food presentation, complements the overall vibe, making Papiamento Restaurant a top pick amongst Aruba vacationers.

Papiamento Restaurant: Menu & Drinks

At the heart of Papiamento Restaurant is a menu that tantalizes the senses and invites guests on a culinary journey unlike any other in Aruba. The restaurant's dedication to using local, fresh ingredients supports the island's community and ensures entrees burst with unparalleled flavor.

Among the favorites is the Keshi Yena, a quintessentially Aruban delight. This dish is brimming with savory chicken, capers, olives, and raisins and cocooned in a gooey, melted Gouda cheese shell. The result is a harmonious fusion of comforting and luxurious flavors. 

Another must-try is the Neptune, a seafood lover's dream come true. Chefs start with fresh Caribbean lobster, mahi-mahi, and shrimp and grill them perfectly. The seafood comes with lemon butter, adding rich flavor with every bite.

The desserts at Papiamento Restaurant are not to be missed, especially their signature Pan Bollo. This rich, dark rum cake, infused with dates, prunes, and walnuts, is served with Ponche Crema and vanilla ice cream. It's like biting into the essence of Aruba's sweet hospitality.

While craft cocktails abound, Papiamento Restaurant is renowned for its wine vault. Over 1,800 bottles reside in the vault, with international offerings from France, Spain, Italy, and Germany, along with North and South American wines. Additionally, prices will fit any budget, ranging from $20 to $200, ensuring there's a wine for everyone.  

Papiamento Restaurant is idyllic after exploring the island on horseback with Rancho Notorious. Let its magical setting, exquisite fare, and distinguished wines elevate your Aruba vacation to an out-of-this-world experience.