Antigua and Barbuda, the Caribbean nation boasting 365 beaches along its welcoming shores, is an inspiringly novel destination. Antigua punctuates rolling hills and valleys with naval forts and vibrant coastal towns, its beaches a launching point for aquatic adventure. Barbuda is seclusion perfected: a natural wonderland where seabirds soar over teeming reefs and hidden pockets of luxury.

While resort restaurants can claim some exceptional dishes, they are not the sole stewards of the culinary soul of Antigua and Barbuda. Locally owned venues and stalls keep the rich heritage of the islands’ cuisine alive and ensure the air is always filled with the aroma of spices. Recognizing the importance of local chefs, Antigua and Barbuda has implemented its “Eat Like a Local” initiative during its annual Restaurant Week every May.

As Antigua and Barbuda currently wrestles with crowning the best pepperpot and fungee (a traditional cornmeal-and-vegetable-stew dish with African roots) in the nation, there’s never been a better time to start eating like a local. The two restaurants below—both finalists in the Pepperpot and Fungee Competition—are as good a place to start as any.

Smiling Harry’s: Flavour Runs in the Family

A sun-kissed beach shack situated on the scenic sands of Half Moon Bay, Smiling Harry’s is emblematic of the generational legacy that underscores Antiguan and Barbudan cuisine. Though Harry’s infectious smile may not welcome guests anymore, his family has carried on in his name, serving up classic Caribbean cuisine.

The authentic menu items have earned rave reviews, as has the service, which is both friendly and attentive. Smiling Harry’s encapsulates the charm, care and passion that the chefs of Antigua and Barbuda infuse every dish with. One taste of the coconut curry shrimp will create a smile that would make Harry proud.

Joe Mike’s: Where Flavour Meets Fun

The electric yellow-and-purple exterior of Joe Mike’s does more than hint at the story of this place: it shouts it out loud. Part hotel, part casino, and part restaurant, you may think that this former ice cream parlour is trying to be too many things. Quite the contrary: Joe Mike’s succeeds in being a cohesive experiential landmark, in no small part due to the strength of its family-run eatery.

A local fixture for over 40 years, the restaurant serves both buffet and à la carte, featuring favourites like ducana and saltfish, bullfoot soup, oxtail, and of course, their well-regarded pepperpot and fungee. These aren’t quick, throwaway meals designed to get you full and ready for more gaming: these are expertly prepared, lovingly seasoned traditional dishes that highlight fresh, natural ingredients from Antigua. Jackpot.