| Whether you choose to enjoy a picnic on the beach, a leisurely lunch on a pier overlooking the ocean or a fine-dining meal by candlelight, you'll find the prefect place and cuisine to enjoy in The Islands of the Bahamas. Both New Providence and Grand Bahama Island offer everything from shacks along the beaches to five-star dining establishments. While you can find a variety of ethnic cuisine to suit your tastes, don't forget to sample some of the local delicacies too.There is a great bounty of seafood available throughout the islands, making seafood the staple of Bahamian diets. Watch at stands along the wharves where conch (pronounced konk) is pulled out of its shell, rinsed and cut up to eat fresh or with lime juice and spices. Conch is a large ocean mollusk and you'll find it served in a variety of ways - in a salad, chowder, deep fried (called cracked conch) or made into fritters. Other seafood includes land crabs, the Bahamian rock lobster, and fresh fish including Grouper, Kingfish, Mullet, Wahoo, Dolphin and Bonefish.Tropical fruits like guava, mango, papaya and plantains add a sweet touch to meals. Guava is used in ice cream, cakes and in Guava Duff, a doughy, sweet, pudding-like dessert. Popular local drinks made with rum are also sweet and go down well. You'll find Goombay Smashes, Bahama Mamas and Yellowbirds at many bars. Be careful when trying the local favorite - gin and coconut water - it packs a punch, but is the perfect accompaniment to a day at the beach.Peas and Rice, chicken souse and Johnny Cake are other local dishes worth trying when you're in The Bahamas. Participating in the People-to-People Program through the Bahamian Ministry of Tourism is one great way to enjoy the gracious hospitality of local volunteer hosts and enjoy a meal of typical dishes in their home. Relax and enjoy - you'll never go hungry! |
