13 Best Restaurants in Eleuthera and Harbour Island, Bahamas

This charming restaurant embodies everything that people love about Eleuthera. The menu offers a range of local favorites, the property is right on the beach (with chairs for lounging after a meal), and the restaurant has an amazing outside deck with a stunning view of Rock Sound's harbor. At dinnertime, candles are placed on the tables, the string lights above the outdoor dining area twinkle, and the beautiful Eleuthera sun lowers over the waters, making Frigate's one of the most beautiful places in town to dine.

Four blocks from the ferry dock on Bay Street, with a deck overlooking the water, this small, colorful shack—presided over by Lavaughn Percentie—is renowned for its freshly caught conch salad. They also serve local dishes like conch fritters, conch sandwiches, and stone crab. Take your meal to go or relax with a drink on the deck. On weekends, get there early to put in your order, as visitors from the world over place large orders to go.

With a menu of delicious Bahamian and American dishes along with stunning views of the ocean, Wild Orchids Waterfront Restaurant provides one of the best dining experiences in Rock Sound. The restaurant is a restored beach house that's more than a century old, and its interior has a traditional Bahamian design that's comforting and familiar. 

Housed in an old school bus, Budda’s Snack Shack is one of the most unique restaurants in all of Eleuthera. The quirky restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists for its delicious food and laid-back atmosphere. The multicolored outside dining area is open-air with a full roof, and there is also a liquor store and bar on the property. Budda’s Snack Shack has signature karaoke on Friday night and live music occasionally. They sometimes close seasonally, so be sure to call before visiting from September to November.

Located just south of the Glass Window Bridge, this restaurant serves up what it describes as "Bahamian Soul Food" along with hosting local bands every Sunday. Order conch bites as a starter to complement the long list of tropical concoctions, including the aptly named "Da Glass Window." In addition to wings and burgers, Daddy Joe's also offers grilled options like fresh seafood and chicken. Call ahead to confirm live music.

Just a stone's throw away from one of Eleuthera's most popular natural treasures is this casual, open-air restaurant offering classic Bahamian dishes and stunning views of the sea. Stop here for a cold beer or enjoy one of the special featured dishes, like grilled pineapple or the El Karaka Salad—a signature dish named in honor of the owner's father. 

Although you can sample local Bahamian fare at this famous eatery, the star of the menu is the cheeseburger, purportedly the inspiration for Jimmy Buffett's "Cheeseburger in Paradise" song. Maybe it's the rustic charm of the breezy patio or the secret seasonings on the melt-in-your-mouth patty, but this burger served between thick slices of homemade Bahamian bread is definitely otherworldly. 

This easily overlooked restaurant is a favorite among Eleuthera natives. While it may not look like it from the outside, New Sunset Inn serves some of the most delicious Bahamian dishes on the island. There's an indoor dining area along with a dining deck that features stunning views of the harbor. It's a great place to have a quiet dinner, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.

Owned by Sammy Culmer and managed by his friendly daughter Margarita, Sammy's is a casual restaurant where you can enjoy great service and authentic Eleutheran food. Sammy's serves conch and fish burgers, a baked chicken dinner, and a variety of club sandwiches and salads. 

This waterfront pavilion at Romora Bay Resort perfectly frames sunsets over Harbour Island, so be sure to get here in time to snag a good seat for the show. Popular with locals, the restaurant serves mid-priced Bahamian specialties, such as conch fritters, for a casual lunch or dinner. The bartender is always happy to create drinks just to suit your vibe. 

On the top of Buccaneer Hill overlooking the town and harbor, this mid-19th-century farmhouse is now a must-try restaurant that serves three meals a day. The outdoor dining area is located under a huge tree, with candlelit tables and soft jazz music playing in the background. To enhance the romantic ambience is a garden of bougainvillea, hibiscus, and coconut palms. 

This brightly painted restaurant is famous for its frozen daiquiris and range of local cuisine. Icy mixes of strawberry and piña colada are swirled into a striking (and delicious) dessert cocktail. Bahamian fare is available at lunch and dinner in the casual outdoor dining area. There's no harbor view, but the alfresco atmosphere is pleasant nonetheless.

You'll find the most delicious Bahamian meals at Unca Gene's casual, seaside restaurant, as well as delicious burgers and pasta dishes. The restaurant has a homey feel, painted in light blue, with an outside dining patio where guests can enjoy the cool sea breeze while they eat.