I Came for the Beaches, Stayed for the Food—5 Best Bites in the Bahamas
I came to the Bahamas for the 2025 Food & Wine Festival—ready to sip, snack, and soak up the sun—but what I didn’t expect was how good the local food would be outside the festival grounds. Between tastings and events, I went exploring and ended up eating some of the best bites of the entire trip at neighborhood spots, beachside shacks, and hidden gems the locals swear by. Honestly? The beaches were beautiful, but the food? That’s what really stole my heart. Here are 4 spots that left the biggest impression.
MCKENZIE’S CONCH SHACK
If you eat one thing in the Bahamas, let it be the tropical conch salad from McKenzie’s. Tucked right on the waterfront in Nassau, this shack is as local as it gets—and the flavors are unreal. They pull the conch fresh from the ocean and toss it with pineapple, mango, lime, and just enough Scotch bonnet to make your lips tingle. It’s bright, briny, a little sweet, and insanely refreshing in the island heat. Grab a cold Kalik, find a spot by the dock, and take your time—this is the kind of place that makes you slow down and savor every bite.
⏰ Hours: Monday–Wednesday & Friday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Closed on Thursdays
📍 Address: Marina Village, Atlantis Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas
🌐 Website: Atlantis Bahamas – McKenzie’s Conch Shack
FIELDTRIP - PARADISE ISALND
Fieldtrip was one of those unexpected finds that left me seriously impressed. Created by James Beard Award-winning Chef JJ Johnson, this spot brings global rice traditions to life with bold, comforting flavors. I ordered the Fried Chicken Bowl—crispy, golden chicken over Carolina Gold fried rice, with wok veggies and their sticky, tangy New Jack BBQ sauce—and added a side of sweet plantains that were caramelized just right. The combo of savory and sweet hit all the right notes. Whether you’re recovering from the sun or gearing up for more exploring, this is the kind of meal that hits the reset button in the best way.
⏰ Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
📍 Address: One Casino Drive, Atlantis Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas
🌐 Website: Atlantis Bahamas – Fieldtrip
Oxtails & Gritts
THE DILLY CLUB - PARADISE ISLAND
The Dilly Club is a chic, tropical hideaway that effortlessly transitions from a specialty coffeehouse by day to a craft cocktail lounge by night. Located in Marina Village on Paradise Island, this spot offers a laid-back island vibe with a touch of sophistication.I stopped by for breakfast and fell in love with their rich, spiced chai tea latte—comforting and perfectly balanced with just the right hint of warmth. The flaky, buttery chocolate croissant paired beautifully with the drink, making every bite feel like a little celebration.
⏰ Hours: Sunday–Thursday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM; Friday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM
📍 Address: Marina Village, Atlantis Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas
🌐 Website: The Dilly Club
CORAL POOL BAR
The Coral Pool Bar is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the Bahamian sun. Located at The Coral, this swim-up bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails served daily. I indulged in a classic Bahama Mama, a delightful mix of rum, pineapple juice, and orange juice, topped with a glace cherry. The refreshing drink perfectly complemented the tropical surroundings.
⏰ Hours: April–September: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; October–March: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
📍 Address: The Coral at Atlantis, One Casino Drive, Paradise Island, Nassau, Bahamas
🌐 Website: Coral Pool – Atlantis Bahamas
From beachfront conch shacks to poolside cocktails and thoughtfully crafted brunches, the Bahamas served up way more than just beautiful views—it gave me flavors I’ll be dreaming about long after the trip. Whether you’re visiting for the Food & Wine Festival or just looking to eat your way through paradise, these spots prove that Bahamian food culture is every bit as vibrant as its beaches. Come for the sun, stay for the bites—you won’t regret it.