One of the most delightful aspects of cruising to the Grand Cayman is the opportunity to enjoy its local cuisine. The Grand Cayman is the largest of the three Cayman Islands and stands out as one of the most popular cruise ports in the Caribbean.
The Grand Cayman has a thriving restaurant scene, and offers a diverse range of culinary experiences to savor. With options ranging from fresh seafood to international and local cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Keep in mind that some restaurants may be closed between September and October for summer break.
Grand Cayman Cruise Terminals
The cruise ship terminals in Grand Cayman are known as tender terminals. Tender terminals mean that larger cruise ships anchor offshore and passengers are ferried ashore on smaller boats, known as tenders.
Cruise ships anchor in a bay directly facing George Town, the largest town in Grand Cayman. Tender boats will take you from your cruise ship to one of the three terminals in George Town.
Grand Cayman has three cruise terminals: Royal Watler Cruise Terminal, North Terminal, and South Terminal. They are all situated in very close proximity to each other.
Grand Cayman has many restaurants near the terminal. The most popular cuisine you’ll find on the island is seafood, though you’ll also find Mexican, Italian, and international cuisines on the island.
The Best Places to Eat in Grand Cayman Near the Cruise Port
Sandbar Daiquiri Bar & Grill
If you’re looking for some excellent Caribbean-style food and drinks right by the port, head over to Sandbar Daiquiri Bar & Grill. Reviewers often mention the delightful ambience and service.
Favorites on the menu include jerk chicken skewers, street corn, ceviche, conch fritters, and drinks such as local draft beer and strawberry daiquiri.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.06 miles (0.1 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Caribbean, Bar, Seafood, Barbecue, Grill, Pub
Sharkeez
Sharkeez is an American-style restaurant and bar found right next to the cruise port. The restaurant offers a beautiful oceanside view of the port, along with a balcony.
A few items on the menu worth trying include nachos, burgers with fries, and eggs Benedict. The bar also has an extensive selection of beers, wines, and other beverages.
Additionally, the restaurant offers excellent music and free Wi-Fi.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.1 miles (0.2 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Bar, American, Caribbean, Pub
Thai House Restaurant of Grand Cayman
For an authentic taste of Thai cuisine, consider stopping by the Thai House Restaurant of Grand Cayman. The restaurant is known for its reasonable prices, great services, and free Wi-Fi.
Some of the top picks on the menu include fried rice, soup, chicken wings, seafood, and chop suey. The restaurant has an open menu and a buffet.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.3 miles (0.4 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Asian, Thai
Hard Rock Cafe
The Hard Rock Cafe, situated right by the cruise port, is the ideal place to dine if you’re a fan of rock music and American cuisine. The building has two floors: the lower one houses souvenirs and rock memorabilia, while the upper floor serves as the restaurant.
On the menu, you’ll discover beverages like hurricanes, local craft beer, and cocktails, as well as tasty American dishes such as BBQ pork sandwiches, chicken club sandwiches, mac-n-cheese, and fries.
Reviewers frequently mention the stunning ocean view, excellent service, and great rock music. So, if you’re seeking an enjoyable dining experience, make sure to drop by the Hard Rock Cafe!
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.2 miles (0.4 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: American, Bar
Rackam’s Waterfront Restaurant and Bar
If you’re in the mood for a casual dining experience that serves a variety of cuisines, Rackam’s Waterfront Restaurant and Bar is the place to go.
On the menu, you’ll find favorites such as conch fritters, coconut shrimp, french fries, quesadillas, burgers, chicken curry, and snapper.
What’s unique about this restaurant is that there’s a ladder available that provides access to the sea, allowing you to swim or snorkel with the fish.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.2 miles (0.4 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: American, Caribbean, Bar, Seafood, International
LeVele Restaurant
For an authentic Italian dining experience close to the cruise port, give LeVele Restaurant a try. At LeVele, you can choose to dine inside the restaurant or outside on the patio.
This restaurant is famous for its superb wine, crispy pizza, ravioli, gnocchi, lasagna, and fresh seafood dishes.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two, a family celebration, or a relaxing lunch with friends, LeVele offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that caters to all occasions.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.3 miles (0.5 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Italian, Pizza, Seafood, European
Singh’s Roti Shop
Signh’s Roti Shop is an authentic West Indian and Caribbean restaurant found right in the center of George Town. This restaurant is popular among both locals and tourists.
Featured on the menu are some favorites like goat and lamb curry, roti, chicken, dal puri, and local beer.
Reviewers frequently mention the wonderful atmosphere and expansive outdoor seating space, complete with a sunsail for shade.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.4 miles (0.6 km)
- Price: $
- Cuisines: Caribbean
The Brasserie
The Brasserie is the place to go for delicious Caribbean-style seafood. This is a farm-to-table restaurant, offering a menu filled with locally sourced and freshly harvested ingredients.
Some of the top picks on the menu include grilled cheese, pumpkin salad, ceviche, wahoo, snapper, salad, and even wine. Be sure to stop by on Friday for happy hour drinks.
You can also choose to dine in the garden at The Brasserie, where they primarily source their ingredients, along with their two fishing boats.
While the restaurant may come with a high price tag, it is a worthwhile choice for those who have an appreciation for fresh, locally sourced food.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.7 miles (1.1 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: Caribbean, Seafood, Fusion
Southern Spice
Southern Spice is your go-to spot for excellent Indian cuisine near the port and at a reasonable price. Make sure to visit on Fridays to enjoy their delicious lunch buffet.
Menu highlights include shrimp tandoori, madras curry, garlic naan, gobi manchurian, and desserts like kulfi and gulab jamun served with vanilla ice cream.
Southern Spice stands out for its policy of giving a free beer with every main course you order, a feature that receives positive feedback from guests. Reviewers also mention the relaxing music, exceptional service, and extensive cocktail and wine menu.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 0.8 miles (1.3 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Indian
Grand Old House
Grand Old House is a Caribbean-style restaurant known for its antique, old-world charm and relaxing ambience. Found in the southern part of George Town, the restaurant offers a large outdoor patio area with views of the ocean and volcanic rocks.
The menu features mouthwatering choices like ceviche, chateaubriand, seafood curry, rack of lamb, arugula salad, conch fritters, and red velvet lava cake, along with an extensive wine selection.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner for two or a special venue for a memorable event, Grand Old House provides a delightful dining experience in a picturesque setting.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 1.5 miles (2.4 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: Caribbean, American, Seafood, International, Contemporary
Veranda at Marriott Beach Resort
The Veranda at Marriott Beach Resort offers a diverse culinary experience along with stunning oceanfront views. It is celebrated as one of the top restaurants Grand Cayman has to offer.
The restaurant’s menu features options such as salads, fish tacos, short ribs, quesadillas, and nachos. Don’t forget to drop by the restaurant on Wednesday for their special lobster night.
The Veranda offers a wonderful atmosphere and excellent service for romantic dinners, special occasions, or a memorable evening of fine dining.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 1.6 miles (2.5 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: International
Abacus
Abacus is a popular restaurant that offers a diverse array of dishes, though it is especially known for its fresh local seafood. You’ll also find a bar on-site that provides all the usual drinks you would expect.
On the menu, you’ll encounter a variety of offerings, from sangria and red snapper to risotto, tuna ceviche, prime rib, caesar salad, and a delectable array of desserts like panna cotta, white chocolate mousse, and molten chocolate.
Mark your calendar for lobster night, a gourmet evening dedicated to serving the finest lobster dishes, happening every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 2 miles (3.3 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Seafood, Caribbean, Contemporary
Blue Cilantro
Blue Cilantro is a fantastic seafood restaurant recognized for its calming ambiance and outstanding service.
On the menu, you can find paella, jumbo shrimp, spring rolls, risotto, and a selection of desserts, including sticky toffee pudding, ice cream, and chocolate lava cake.
If you’re looking for a great dining experience, Blue Cilantro is the place to be, with its calming ambiance and outstanding service.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 2 miles (3.3 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: Seafood, Fusion
Blue by Eric Ripert
Blue by Eric Ripert is a high-quality, fine dining restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. It is known for its collection of mouthwatering seafood-based dishes. Chef Eric Ripert, one of the co-owners of the renowned New York City restaurant Le Bernardin, is the creative force behind the dishes.
The restaurant consists of a delicious tasting menu that you can enjoy with wine pairings, including a dedicated vegetarian menu.
Some of the finest options on the menu include wagyu beef, kanpachi, caviar, oysters, mango sorbet, langoustine, and halibut.
Keep in mind that some individuals have found the restaurant to be a bit expensive. If you’re budget-conscious, there are plenty of more affordable dining choices to consider.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 2.9 miles (4.6 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: Seafood
Bacaro
Bacaro is a very popular restaurant where you can savor excellent Italian food and a variety of seafood-based dishes. Some reviewers have noted that the portions can be quite small, so you may want to order more dishes to curb your hunger.
The menu offers a variety of options, such as pork belly, ceviche, black tagliolini, meatballs, deviled eggs, and chocolate cake. You’ll also find a range of beverages, including cocktails, wine, and ice-cold beers.
Bacaro offers a picturesque terrace with a waterfront view. If you’re seeking a high-quality dining experience, this is a place worth visiting.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 5 miles (8.2 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Italian, Seafood, European, Contemporary
Morgan’s Seafood Restaurant
Morgan’s Seafood Restaurant provides a diverse menu of mouthwatering seafood dishes right by the water. It is conveniently located right near the Cayman Islands Yacht Club and around 0.6 miles (1 km) from Seven Mile Beach.
Some of the menu’s top picks include chicken schnitzel, seafood crepe, lobster risotto, trigger fish, and heavenly desserts like apple strudel, key lime pie, and lava cake.
The restaurant’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, paired with its stunning waterfront views, creates the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience in the Cayman Islands.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 5.3 miles (8.5 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Caribbean, Seafood
Calypso Grill
Calypso Grill, situated in West Bay, is a popular restaurant offering a fusion of Caribbean and American cuisine, with a focus on seafood dishes.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including crab cakes, wahoo, calypso shrimp, steak, cracked conch, and sticky toffee pudding.
While the restaurant might be a bit pricey, many reviewers have mentioned that it’s worth the price. Additionally, reviewers often mention the fantastic atmosphere and helpful staff.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 6.3 miles (10.1 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: American, Caribbean, Seafood
VIVO Cafe Restaurant
Looking for an outstanding dining spot away from the usual crowds? VIVO Cafe Restaurant is the answer, serving predominantly vegetarian meals.
The menu features a variety of excellent choices, including pumpkin fritters, vegan burgers, calamari, coconut ceviche, pad Thai, and a selection of desserts like chocolate mousse, cheesecake, and affogato. Additionally, they offer an excellent cocktail menu.
VIVO Cafe Restaurant is a fantastic choice for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, as it’s located right near a dive shop and dock. The restaurant is also a 3 minute drive from Hell, one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 7.3 miles (11.8 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Caribbean, International
The Cracked Conch
The Cracked Conch is an oceanside restaurant that offers a wide range of delectable seafood dishes. The restaurant provides options for both indoor and outdoor dining.
Among the top items on the menu are grilled octopus with cannellini beans, scallops, conch ceviche, salad of the day, and bread pudding.
The Cracked Conch is conveniently located near two Grand Cayman attractions: Dolphin Discovery and Turtle Farm. If you’re planning a day at either of those locations, consider stopping by this place for a quick bite.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 7.8 miles (12.6 km)
- Price: $$$$
- Cuisines: American, Caribbean, Seafood
Kaibo Beach Restaurant
If you’re visiting Rum Point and looking for a place to dine, consider visiting Kaibo Beach Restaurant. The restaurant has idyllic oceanside views and gives you the choice of dining indoors, on the patio, or right by the beach.
The restaurant is famous for its pizza, fries, salad, rum cake, and fish sandwiches. They even host a barbecue night on Tuesdays. Additionally, you’ll also find plenty of gluten free options on the menu.
Kaibo Beach Restaurant is located near Starfish Point, a popular tourist attraction where you can see starfish in shallow waters. You might even see a DJ playing at the restaurant on some nights.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 27.5 miles (44.2 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Pizza, Barbecue, Seafood, Caribbean, Grill
Tukka East End
Tukka East End is an excellent restaurant known for its varied menu with a strong focus on seafood. It is known for its colorful decor, lively beach atmosphere, and excellent oceanside views.
On the menu, you’ll discover delicious choices like fish tacos, brochettes, crocodile conch fritters, coconut prawns, lion fish tacos, lobster spring rolls, and chicken curry. Tukka East End also has a wine menu to complement your meal.
Tukka East End is a 1 minute drive from the Wreck of the Ten Sail, a historic shipwreck site dating back to 1794. Don’t forget to visit the restaurant on Sunday for the brunch buffet or on Tuesday for some special tacos!
- Distance from cruise terminal: 22.5 miles (36.2 km)
- Price: $$ – $$$
- Cuisines: Caribbean, Seafood, Australian, New Zealand
Al La Kebab
If you’re looking for some delicious Mediterranean cuisine, head to Al La Kebab. The restaurant may not impress at first glance, housed in a small shack with a picnic table, but the food is truly exceptional.
Some of the most delicious menu items include spicy chicken tikka, falafel, humus, chicken shawarma, and mango chutney.
- Distance from cruise terminal: 2.1 miles (3.4 km)
- Price: $
- Cuisines: Mediterranean, Greek, Street Food, Middle Eastern
Final Words and Recommendation
Grand Cayman is a fantastic spot for cruise ship enthusiasts seeking Caribbean and international flavors.
Don’t forget to check out Sandbar Daiquiri Bar & Grill, Rackam’s Waterfront Restaurant and Bar, Singh’s Roti Shop, and Veranda at Marriott Beach Resort.
To make the most of your dining experiences, it’s a good idea to plan ahead, make reservations where necessary, and be open to trying something new. Each restaurant has its own unique charm, and exploring the local food culture is a rewarding part of your visit.
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