A Guide to Caribbean Glamour | St. Barths
Classy laid back French island St. Barthélemy is a must-visit
By Jorge Manzur | General Manager | Anantara Villa Padierna
“I discovered St Barths when I was working as a Cabin Boy on a private yacht back in the early 80’s, without money to spend. I was so impressed that I decided that my honeymoon was going to be on this romantic island, and so I did.”
St. Barths
The French Caribbean island of St. Barths - also known as St. Barthélemy - is legendary for its high-class restaurants, relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
The island has attracted the rich and famous from all over the world and is located only a short 15-minute flight from the Dutch Caribbean island of St. Maarten. The moment you descend onto St. Barths, you can’t help but be amazed. Descend is very literal here — you must take a deep breath and be ready for a dive to land on paradise.
The first view is to the crystalline turquoise waters, surrounded by mountains, unscathed, yet marked with small red and white dots - the luxury villas nestled on the hillside.
Be guided by Jorge Manzur, a well-travelled five-star hotel manager, who visited St. Barths as a humble cabin boy in the 80s and who hasn’t been able to escape its grasp ever since. As a frequent visitor and big fan of the island, he knows all the best it has to offer, and loves to share his favourite restaurants, bars, and beaches on St. Barths.
Where to eat
BONITO
If you had to describe Bonito in one word, it would be ‘sexy’. A hip and happening place with great music, stunningly seductive cocktails, breathtaking views and excellent contemporary food. Jorge recommends the ceviches and is adamant you shouldn’t miss the ‘Fish Sudado’.
L’ISOLA
Fine Italian cuisine in a beautiful location in the heart of Gustavia. Jorge’s go-to spot for a romantic evening in St. Barth and the spaghetti alla Bottarga can’t be missed.
LA LANGOUSTE
The restaurant, located on Flamands beach, is not very well known among tourists but legendary among locals. The simplicity of the place makes it really appealing, and they cook the best fresh lobster on the island. Years ago, Jorge had the pleasure of learning the chef’s recipe for the Goat Cheese Phyllo Purses with tomato, and it has been his son’s favourite dish ever since.
TAMARIN
More than a restaurant, a true experience. Being in Tamarin feels like you are in the middle of a tropical jungle, and the French island-style food is cooked using the best ingredients possible. Service is personal and relaxed yet professional, and the cocktails and black Angus steaks are to die for.
LE SELECT
A local burger joint that holds a special place in Jorge’s heart. Once the only dinner on St. Barths within his budget, it has remained a must-visit for the great vibe and atmosphere. Great cheeseburgers, great beers and great people make this a must-visit for those who really want to experience the vibe of the island.
KIKI É MO
A deli and restaurant that’s great for a bite on the way to the beach or when shopping for a picnic. Ask for IB Charneau, the owner and beating heart of the place. An inspiring person, and worth the visit just to talk with her and have a nice glass of rosé. Her positive attitude that nothing is a problem and hospitality and quality comes from being the best at what you love shines through in the food and drink. Try their shrimps, they’re the best!
Where to go to the beach
GOUVERNEUR BEACH
Rumours say that this is where the French pirate Captain Monbars stashed his treasure in a cave and never recovered it. True or not, the place is a must-visit. You might not strike literal gold, but the beauty of the beach is just as dazzling.
COLOMBIER BEACH
One of the hardest beaches on the island to reach, but the beauty makes up for it. An absolutely magical place.
FLAMANDS BEACH
The best spot for long walks and swimming among the waves. Once you’re hungry enough you can visit La Langouste for a relaxed meal.
SHELL BEACH
Of the 15 idyllic beaches on St. Barths, this one is the nearest to Gustavia and the easiest to reach. As befits the name, the shoreline here is covered with millions of shells, a unique and beautiful sight - but potentially hazardous for your fancy swimsuit, so be careful.
ST. JEAN BEACH
The bay at St. Jean is the place to see and be seen, and the top spot for celeb watching. The gentle shelf and reef-protected waters also make this windward beach popular with families. There are also a lot of lunch options right on the beach, Jorge recommends the Pearl Beach Restaurant.
Where to stay
LE GUANAHANI
Jorge discovered this hotel when he was working as a Cabin Boy on a private yacht back in the early 80s. At that time he was single and didn’t have enough money to stay there himself, but he was so impressed that he pledged to spend his honeymoon there one day.
He did and has been coming back ever since. Now managed by Rosewood it has become one of the best hotels Jorge has ever been, with villas built up against the hills and a pointy private beach stretching into the sea.
