Where Michelin Star Chefs Eat & Drink | Bonaire
Recommendations by The Bearleaders
By Caroline Berends | Hotelier | Hotel Restaurant De Nederlanden
André Gerrits | Founder & Michelin Star Chef | ’t Amsterdammertje & Inspiced
Erik van Loo | Founder & Two Michelin Star Chef | Restaurant Parkheuvel Rotterdam
Bonaire by Caroline Berends | Hotelier | Bearleader in Hospitality
“It might not look much, but Maiky Snack is legendary for its Stobá - slow cooked meat that is as tender as anything you’ll ever taste”
Let Michelin Star chefs André Gerrits and Erik van Loo guide you through the best restaurants and bars in Bonaire. From artfully crafted seafood paired with excellent wines to shared dining experiences and accessible street food, this sun-soaked Dutch Caribbean island has something for every culinary enthusiast. André visits his wife’s family frequently and Erik visits the island for work just as much, so you can be sure their expertise allows them to give you the best possible tips!
Where to eat & go for a drink
CUBA COMPAGNIE
For the tastiest cocktails and always Stoba on the menu (Antillean stew) you have to go to Cuba. What you should not miss is the Salsa evening on Thursday evening. Feel the Antillean vibe and dance to the most wonderful music with a cocktail. Highly recommended!
instagram | maps | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef
CHEFS TABLE BONAIRE
Enjoy a great fine dining experience with a small group of maximum 14 guests. Dining at the chef's table, where the dishes are prepared before your eyes, is a wonderful experience. You can't get any closer to the fire...
instagram | maps | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef
HANGOUT BEACH BAR JIBE CITY
This trendy beach-side bar in the windsurfing hotspot Jibe City is a must-visit. They serve lovely cocktails and tapas every day, but especially recommended comes the table barbecue that’s brought out on Thursday evenings.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef and Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef
CAPRICCIO
Great Italian food next to the sea. Their menu offers simple but delicious food, and the wine list is as impressive as it is extensive.
maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef and Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef
AT SEA
An idyllic restaurant on the Bonaire promenade with a view of the Caribbean sea. The à la carte menu offers a range of carefully balanced international flavors, but their surprise menu will do just that: surprise and delight.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of André Gerrits
SEBASTIAN’S
This romantic restaurant has great views and great food. They offer a magical ‘pier diner’ right on the sea and have an Italian night every Sunday: an affordable and charming way to get together with family or friends.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef
LA CANTINA
Fresh fish from the daily fish market, featuring catches from local fishermen, ensuring a diverse and fresh menu. Great garden, excellent cocktails and good wine list.
KOS BON SO
Delicious Bonaire chicken at this small local restaurant. Good stop for lunch if you go to explore Rincon and the Gotomeer area.
maps | favourite of Caroline Berends, Hotelier
BARI BEACH BAR
Enjoy a drink with your feet in the sand and the view of the beautiful sea while you have lunch. There is always live music in the evenings on weekends. And what makes the experience even better is that the service mainly consists of kind local boys and girls. Perfect spot to watch the sun set behind the sea.
instagram | maps | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef
IT RAINS FISHES
Situated on the beach, this fish restaurant pays a beautiful tribute to the instrumental role of fishing in the local culture by lovingly preparing the freshest of catches. Fishing boats dock right across the restaurant, which means you can see the fish being hauled in and washed right before your very eyes.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef and Caroline Berends, Hotelier
MAIKY SNACK
The best spot for Stobá, the name for authentic Antillean stew. Incredible flavours. This slow-cooked goodness has to be experienced.
maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef
BRASS BOER
Situated in the Delfins Beach Resort. The brainchild of Michelin chefs and Librije owners Jonnie and Therese Boer, expect some of the island's best cooking. Experience the eclectic mix of international dishes prepared using local techniques in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of André Gerrits, Michelin Star Chef & Caroline Berends, Hotelier
OCEAN OASIS
The coolest beach club and restaurant on Bonaire. With an ex-Michelin Star team, including chef Ayron, with whom Erik used to work at Mood Curaçao, you can surely experience a real masterclass in food and service. Despite this, it is still reasonably affordable. You can also rent a sultan or beach bed or simply have a beachside drink.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of Erik van Loo, Two Michelin Star Chef, and Caroline Berends, Hotelier
What to do
1000 STEPS
The perfect place to go snorkeling.
DIVE FRIENDS FOR DIVING
Great company with nice people who make you feel safe to go diving.
instagram | maps, in Kralendijk | favourite of Caroline Berends, Hotelier
WASHINGTON SLAGBAAI NATIONAL PARK
Go cruising with a pickup truck through this park, known for its diverse landscapes. From rugged coastlines and salt flats, and hidden beaches. The park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including flamingos, iguanas, and parrots, and it offers amazing snorkeling, hiking, and off-road adventures.
VISIT TO THE SLAVE HOUSES
Interesting to learn about the history of this island, and its people. These huts, made of stone with low ceilings and small doorways, are a powerful historical reminder of the harsh conditions enslaved people endured. Despite living and working far from home, many of them walked long distances on weekends to visit their families in Rincon.
