5 Ways to Taste Bermuda
One of the things that sets this island country apart (besides the fact that it's 650 miles from Cape Hatteras, North Carolina) is the warmth, pride and diversity of Bermudians. Our 65,000 residents are a welcoming, eclectic swirl of cultures - many of African, Caribbean, English, Portuguese and Native American descent. Their influences are reflected in everything from customs to food, which includes a mash-up of Creole spices with proper English dishes and Portuguese donuts.
- Food,
- Travel Tips
1. Take Advantage of Lobster Season
Smaller than its Maine counterpart and without claws, Bermuda's spiny lobster has most of its tender, flavourful meat in the tail. From September to March you'll find these crustaceans on the menu in nearly every restaurant, but local institution Lobster Pot, on Bermudiana Road, is the place to find a classic thermidor with all the fixings. Insider tip: Start with their conch chowder.
2. Feast on Caribbean Flavours
Bermuda's northerly Atlantic position separates the island from the Caribbean in geography but not in heart. Menus island-wide have their own versions of peas and rice, jerk meats and salted codfish cakes. With outposts in the east and west, D&C Grill serves heaping dinners of jerk chicken and pork on rice and peas or mouthwatering macaroni. An authentic jerk grill is the secret to their success.
3. Get a Taste of Portuguese Heritage
A food truck specialising in Portuguese cuisine, Generosa's serves "Vovo's recipes" (vovo means grandmonther) at the bustling Front Yard on Front Street. Traditional dishes celebrate pork and seafood -codfish is a major staple - and Shrimp Mozambique, uses African spices. Sandwiches are served on sweet Portuguese bread rolls.
4. Experience High Tea
Iconic red phone booths and police officers in bobby helmets: Bermuda's heritage is undeniably British, particularly when it comes to the classic British activity of afternoon tea. Enjoy a selection of finely cut sandwiches, cakes and scones with clotted cream and jam at Huckleberry, Rosedon Hotel's elegant restaurant. Make it a "Tipsy Tea" with a glass of champagne and libations from the speciality gin and tonic menu.
5. Savour the Seasonal Harvest
From November to June, browse farmers' markets for local produce, preserves and home-baked goods. Catch the end of Bermuda corn season; try locally grown passion fruit and load up on bananas and carrots year-round at Windybank, Wadson's Farm or the Bermuda Botanical Garden market on Saturdays.
