• Award of Excellence: Huckleberry
  • Huckleberry claims this year’s Award of Excellence for the second year in a row, proving that attention to detail, character and consistency pay off. You feel its timeless charm the moment you step foot on the Rosedon property, met by manicured gardens, cerulean blue awnings with shutters to match, and the open-armed staircase. Every tasteful detail is complemented with an even tastier collection of appetisers, entrees, and of course, desserts. Dine al fresco under the covered veranda or above the burgeoning gardens, or even opt for the private dining room for larger parties and celebrations.
  • Constantly pushing the envelope with inventive sell-out events, the judges commended Huckleberry’s unwavering dedication to “reinvesting in themselves and their assets.” Executive chef Damien Griffiths and general manager Rob Bruni are the fearless leaders of this team effort, upholding the coveted Relais & Châteaux status of this elegant establishment. Huckleberry also snags the Best of Bermuda awards for best salad and ambience, a fitting homage to another year of continued excellence.
  • 61 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 478-2256; www.huckleberrybda.com
  • Cup of Java: Brew
  • A unanimous favourite with the public, Brew has solidified its status as a staple coffee shop for its fourth year. Located conveniently in the heart of Front Street, their rustic, coffeehouse aesthetic makes them not just a popular grab-and-go hotspot, but a social hub, as well.  Satisfied customers can be seen at all hours of the day enjoying both coffee and company in Brew’s bustling outdoor seating space. 53 Front Street, Hamilton; 542-2739
  • Breakfast: The Cottage Cafe & Bistro
  • Long overdue for its first Best of Bermuda win, the judges were thrilled with this decision. A quaint bistro with retro decor serving up homey, hearty breakfast classics for years, this spot is an undeniable hidden gem. Crafting traditional cottage dishes with a “touch of Portuguese influence,” they hit all the marks for an unforgettable breakfast sojourn. For the full experience, opt for their Azorean Eggs Benedict served on Johnny bread with chorizo hash and goats’ cheese, or for something sweet, their Cinnamon Baked French Toast with fresh berries and walnuts. Whatever you decide, you’re sure to leave stuffed and satisfied from The Cottage Cafe & Bistro.
  • 2nd Floor Washington Mall, 20 Church Street, Hamilton; 292-0880
  • Favourite Pub: The Astwood Arms
  • Boasting inventive pub-style food and English ales in a rustic Victorian-era setting, stepping into Astwood Arms feels like a trip back in time. Add personable waitstaff and a create-your-own gin cocktail menu to the mix, there’s no wonder why this spot is a continual crowd-favourite! They’re not afraid to “try different things with their menu,” one judge notes, offering up pub classics like Fish N Chips and Bangers and Mash, to BBQ ribs, loaded fries and even Chicken Shawarma. You’ll seldom see an open chair after 5 o’clock, with loyal customers flocking to the familiar comforts of Astwood Arms after a long day’s work. 83 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-5818
  • Place for a Power Lunch: Harry’s
  • Convenient, consistent and contemporary, Harry’s is an unbeatable place for a power lunch. Whether dining indoors by the wine cellar or outside on the Waterfront patio, the public and judges agree that Harry’s is a working professional’s go-to for entertaining and impressing clients. There’s something about their Classic Caesar that never disappoints, or Harry’s hearty Chef Burger loaded with gourmet ingredients like avocado, smoked tomato chutney and arugula. Enjoy a tasty power lunch with colleagues or bring potential new business here to talk details in a relaxed, but professional, environment. 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 292-5533
  • Bougie Burger: Bolero
  • Since 2007, Bolero has been the neighbourhood choice for a casual, yet properly cosmopolitan, dining experience. Chef Jonny Roberts ensures the menu epitomises the simple but elevated style of the space, featuring a mélange of island and European influences that separate it from its competition. Their signature burger, The Rubicon, is no less of an eclectic homage to the restaurant’s personality. This thick, juicy stack of ground beef, scorched tomato, avocado, Manchego, onion and bacon jam, fried egg and smoked jalapeño mayo is a mouthful, but worth every bite. Call in for pick-up or order through the Sargasso app, this fan favourite is also available upon request when dining in. 95 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-4507
  • Traditional Hamburger: Byrdie’s Café
  • When craving a no-fuss, classic hamburger, “simple and a good price” were the main criteria for the judges: “I’m not paying for Wagyu, it’s minced meat,” one judge joked. Byrdie’s certainly exceeds all expectations when you’re on the hunt for a traditional, affordable hamburger that checks all the boxes. They’ve been grilling up uncomplicated, mouth-watering burgers for years, making them a reliable neighbourhood stop for hungry patrons.  12 Parsons Road, Pembroke; 292-6130
  • Great Sandwich: The Hamilton Pastry Shop
  • Both the judges and the public agreed that The Hamilton Pastry Shop’s popular sandwiches were due for a win. With an extensive menu of sandwiches and paninis, each option pairs freshly baked bread with fresh produce for guaranteed tasty mouthfuls. Tucked into the corner of Reid and Burnaby Street, this colourful, convenient and quaint shop is the perfect stop for town’s working professionals. Try their Crispy Chicken sandwich for a perfect marriage of sweet and savoury with every bite. With daily soups and salads to compliment your sandwich, great prices, and the option to take out, dine at the counter or outside, The Hamilton Pastry Shop never disappoints. 
  • 31 Reid Street, Hamilton; 295-2253
  • Food Truck: The Lonestar
  • The Lonestar is serving up fresh seafood in Sandys in a new, convenient roadside location for all west end travellers. For tourists or weekenders, make an afternoon out of it! Pick up from The Lonestar and take a short drive down the road to Long Bay Park, where you can sit off and enjoy your fresh fish sandwich, fish bites or a deliciously simple hamburger by the beach. Be sure to get a few sides to share, like their cottage crinkle cut fries or an order of their sweet and creamy coleslaw. 66 Somerset Road, Sandys; 505-5511
  • Lunch on the Go: Miles Market
  • Miles Market owns the lunchtime rush, with a hot bar and daily takeout specials that make for a quick grab-and-go option. The food is fresh, the service is fast, and the options are ever-expanding. Taking home this award for a few years now, they’ve got lunch service down to a science. Sushi, sandwiches and wraps are made fresh daily, complemented by a salad and soup bar to ensure lunchtime is never boring.   96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 295-1234
  • Diner: Island Cuisine
  • Island Cuisine is a hallmarked west end eatery, having been “consistent for years,” the judges agree. Bright blue lunch counters and baby pink walls greet you first, with friendly waitstaff ushering you into one of their signature turquoise booths. Dine on breakfast all day, local fare and daily specials that come at modest prices. Serving up diverse dishes in a colourful atmosphere to match, Island Cuisine is the truest representation of the Bermudian dining experience. 235 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-3287
  • Diner (Honourable Mention): The Spot Restaurant & Bar
  • The judges agreed that The Spot “made impressions for the year,” undergoing massive changes that earned it an honourable mention. A time-old establishment that’s refreshed, rebranded and “new to the scene,” The Spot has taken the traditional diner experience and elevated it to new heights. 6 Burnaby Street, Hamilton; 292-6293
  • Salad: Huckleberry
  • In addition to receiving the Award of Excellence honour, Huckleberry’s salads won over the public this year. Executive chef Damian Griffiths has come onto the scene and upheld Huckleberry’s reputation, continuing to execute their three signature salads. A play on tradition with an added Asian flare, their namesake salad features a shredded cabbage and kale base, peanuts, avocado, crispy shallots, cilantro and a tangy sesame-ginger dressing; add fresh local fish, pan-roasted shrimp or grilled chicken breast to make a meal of it. 
  • 61 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 478-2256; www.huckleberrybda.com
  • Salad Bar: Nonna’s Kitchen
  • Nonna’s Kitchen has quickly become the go-to for savvy salad bar seekers. With “fresh, consistent” options that are made in-house, Nonna’s, points out one judge, is the perfect choice to grab a quick and healthy lunch. With a simple layout and easy-to-see options, their salad bar makes loading up your toppings a quick and hassle-free process. Enjoy your salad in their outdoor seating area or cross the street to Barr’s Bay Park and relish your lunch break by the water with salad in hand. 4 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton; 295-7687
  • Dine-in Sushi: Blû Bar & Grill
  • For sushi lovers looking to dine amidst an upscale atmosphere with impeccable service, Blu satisfies all the above. With an extensive menu of speciality rolls to choose from, fresh sushi is expertly prepared in-house at their sushi bar. Dine in good company while taking in panoramic views of the Great Sound and Hamilton Harbour from floor-to-ceiling windows inside or on their outdoor patio. Preparing bold, colourful mouthfuls with each roll, order a few to share for the table or enjoy solo as an entrée, tasting the creative mastery of Blu’s sushi chefs. 25 Belmont Drive, Warwick; 232-2323
  • Takeout Sushi: Misaki
  • If you’re looking for a quick and easy sushi fix, Misaki offers great takeout options for diners on the go. Quickly becoming a “very popular” spot, one judge adds that its central location makes it “perfect if you’re working in town.” With incredibly competitive prices, Misaki is everything that takeout sushi should be—quick, affordable and delicious. With friendly service and a great variety of creative rolls to choose from, Misaki is raising the bar for take-away sushi. 5 Burnaby Street, Hamilton; 296-7254
  • Pizza: Rustico
  • A “battle royale,” as one judge deemed it, this category sparked quite the controversy amongst voters. Rustico snagged the win, upholding its reputation as a reliable, out-of-town pizza destination. With views overlooking Flatts inlet, Rustico’s ambience makes it a perfect place to enjoy a pizza while the sun sets over the bay. With over a dozen options to choose from, their menu has something for everyone. Try their namesake The Rustico Special, where thin, flaky crust meets a tomato base, melting mozzarella, Parma ham and arugula for the perfect bite of sweet and salty. 38 North Shore Road, Flatts; 295-5212
  • Pizza by the Slice: Fire & Slice Pizzeria
  • Sometimes you’re not looking for an entire pie, and Fire & Slice Pizzeria is the place to go when you’re craving a single slice. Winning the public vote, the judges also heralded them for being “inventive,” citing bold specialty pizzas like their Mac & Cheese or Jerk Shrimp options. This grab-and-go style hotspot is great for quick pick-ups, whether you’re snagging a single slice, or two or three. No matter if you’re going with classic cheese or pepperoni, or with out-of-the-box toppings that just work, these light, thin-crust pizzas are fun and filling. 9 Serpentine Road, Pembroke; 295-5777
  • Place for Veggie Lovers: Nonna’s Kitchen
  • Nonna’s Kitchen secures another win this year as the holy grail for veggie lovers. The judges commended their “dedicated values around vegan, vegetarian and plant-based options” and their ability to produce consistent, healthy alternatives for their customers. The judges also applauded Nonna’s for “expanding their business,” now found at three locations islandwide. 4 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 295-7687; 4 Mill Creek Road, Pembroke, 705-9030; South Road, Smith’s, 261-7687
  • Place for Veggie Lovers (Honourable Mention): Plant Based Fuel BDA
  • An honourable mention in the veggie lover’s category, Plant Based Fuel BDA was founded by chef Trevor Johnstone with an impetus to bring plant-based meals to Bermudians. From catering to private cooking demonstrations and talks, Plant Based Fuel BDA works to seamlessly introduce healthier options into your menu repertoire. Contact info@plantbasedfuelbda.com or 704-2630
  • Ethnic Cuisine: Baan Thai Restaurant
  • For Thai food lovers on the island, options have historically been lacking—that was until March 2021 when Baan Thai opened their doors. While you can pick up or get delivery through the Sargasso Sea app, we recommend dining outside in their garden patio. For dinner-goers, the fairy lights and picnic tables transform the space into a peaceful escape from the din of the city. Soak in the atmosphere with some crispy spring rolls to share before moving onto mains. If you’re a curry lover, try their Phad Pa-Nang for the perfect balance of bold and spicy flavours, or if you’re craving noodles, opt for their sweet and saucy Phad Thai. 87 Reid Street, Hamilton; 543-0342
  • Ethnic Cuisine (Honourable Mention): Fish & Tings
  • Fish & Tings has been specialising in authentic Jamaican cuisine for almost 15 years. With generational recipes, an affordable product and a “customer-first attitude,” this neighbourhood hotspot is one that the judges deemed deserving of an honourable mention. In tandem with in-house service, Fish & Tings also offers a catering service for their valued customers. The food is always fresh, flavourful and full of colour—a fitting homage to the vibrant culture it represents. 45 Angle Street, Hamilton; 292-7389
  • Al Fresco Dining: Breezes
  • With an old-world charm incomparable to anywhere else on the island, dining at Breezes feels like having “escaped the world,” offers one judge. Overlooking Long Bay Beach on the Cambridge Beaches property, soak in the slower-paced feel of Breezes at lunch or dinnertime. This stunning, open-air summer hotspot offers deliciously fresh local fare, and in the summertime you can often see mariners arriving by boat. In the evenings, sip and sit in uninterrupted ocean views as the sun slips below the horizon, painting watercolour skies over the bay. Dining at Breezes is truly memorable and unmatched, reminding both locals and visitors just how spectacular Bermuda can be. 30 King’s Point Road, Sandys; 234-0331
  • Fine Dining: Tom Moore’s Tavern
  • Built in 1652, Tom Moore’s Tavern is a true time capsule of old Bermuda, rich with history and heralded as the island’s “oldest eating house.” Our judges agree that an evening spent at Tom Moore’s epitomises fine dining, where patrons enjoy high-quality food and wine pairings in a sophisticated, refined fashion. General manager Bruno Fiocca and executive chef Robert Nicolle work to source the freshest, finest ingredients for diners, ensuring that every experience is simply unforgettable. There’s a certain sentimentality one feels when dining within these hallowed walls, sensing the charismatically dated charm of the building as you slip under rustic archways and cedar beams into the cosy, romantically lit dining room. 7 Walsingham Lane, Hamilton; 293-8020
  • Ambience: Huckleberry
  • Dining at Huckleberry feels like a breath of fresh air, alluring locals and visitors alike with its endearing whimsy. A category that the judges defined as a place with “character, great surroundings” and ultimately, “something special,” Huckleberry was a natural front-runner. Perched just on the edge of town, this spot is the perfect escape from the buzz of the city while still being conveniently located. The picturesque hotel entrance welcomes you into the charmingly quaint dining porch of Huckleberry. Guests are met with a comforting nostalgic feeling when eating here; everything feels so timelessly simple, yet still “polished and new.”
  • 61 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 478-2256; www.huckleberrybda.com
  • Hotel Restaurant: Rosewood Hotel—Island Brasserie, The Conservatory, and Sul Verde
  • Rosewood Bermuda boasts four fabulous dining options located throughout their property. The Conservatory Bar and Lounge is the perfect place to grab a pre- or post-dinner drink with friends, or even light bites and sushi. The intimate atmosphere also makes for an ideal date night spot, sipping handcrafted, specialty gin cocktails on cosy couches under fairy lights and high ceilings. Also in the main hotel, the Island Brasserie is a great spot to enjoy steakhouse favourites in a classically relaxed ambiance. For unparalleled Southern Italian-inspired dishes, head up to their golf club to dine at Sul Verde. Whether sitting inside in the beautifully accented open dining room or out on their patio overlooking sprawling greens, their authentic plates and signature cocktails transport your taste buds to Campania. In the summertime, members and guests can enjoy lunch or dinner at the Beach Club, overlooking oceanfront views above the private beach. No matter where you choose to dine on the Rosewood property, you are always met with a stunning setting, impeccable service and inimitable food and drink—and that is truly the secret to their success. 60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish; 298-4000
  • Sunday Brunch: Grotto Bay Beach Resort, Hibiscus Dining Room
  • Grotto Bay is often overlooked as a dining option for locals, with one judge remarking how they are truly “unsung heroes” when it comes to brunch. “It’s very casual and easy,” another judge adds, with “really good food and the service is great.” For $42, enjoy a full spread of breakfast classics like codfish and potatoes, omelettes and waffles, complimenting your meal with a few mimosas and a live pianist. Take a walk down to the caves afterwards, soaking up the tropical sophistication of the Grotto Bay grounds on a full stomach. 11 Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton Parish; 293-8333
  • Private Dining Room: Ascots Restaurant
  • Ascots private Wine Dining Room is the quintessential space for hosting private luncheons or dinners, the judges attested. Connecting with their wine cellar, 8 to 14 guests can enjoy a more secluded, personal meal, surrounded by a collection of fine wines from all over the world. If you want to truly impress your guests, you need a spot with impeccable service, an impressive menu, and a stylish, sophisticated ambience. Ascots has been providing all the above for over two decades, and owners Edmund and Angelo will ensure that you are well taken care of. Whether impressing clients, hosting a birthday celebration or enjoying the company of family and friends, the exclusive dining room at Ascots is awaiting your next event. 24 Rosemont Avenue, Pembroke; 295-9644
  • Out-of-Town Eatery: Boundary Sports Bar & Grille
  • A west end favourite, Boundary takes a tasteful, swanky twist on the classic sports bar, offering bold and artisanal barbecue and pub favourites alongside televised sports and creative cocktails. Whether catching a Premier League, NFL, NHL or golf game, Boundary is broadcasting your favourite rivalries all day long. It’s the perfect stop after a round of golf at Turtle Hill just below, moseying up for a beer and some slow-smoked BBQ. With a few fun games scattered around the restaurant, it’s a great place to go with a group for a casual, competition-filled night out. 101 South Shore Road, Southampton; 238-8000
  • Kid-Friendly Restaurant: The Frog & Onion Pub
  • The Frog & Onion Pub has been a fixture of Dockyard for over thirty years, offering up an extensive pub menu for all ages. Its grand size, games room and outdoor dining options have made this an unequivocal hotspot for families with young kids. Make sure to bring a stack of quarters with you and enjoy one of their house-brewed beers while your kids compete in the games room. The Frog & Onion Pub is a natural lunchtime stop amidst a day of Dockyard exploration. 4 Maritime Lane, The Cooperage, Royal Naval Dockyard, Somerset; 234-2900
  • Cake Maker: Root Tulip
  • “Cakes have evolved,” the judges acknowledge, and Root Tulip has certainly risen to the occasion. Atop vanilla or chocolate sponge, perfectly piped petals of frosting transform cake into beautiful bouquets of sugary flowers that are almost too breath-taking to eat…almost! Root Tulip’s desserts can be enjoyed somewhat guilt-free, as well, with all cakes being made vegan. Root Tulip is transforming the classic cupcake into masterful, delectable works of art that you simply must taste for yourself to believe. Operating out of a home bakery, contact root.tulip@gmail.com for inquiries.
  • Seafood Restaurant: Aurora
  • Located at the Newstead Belmont Hills Hotel on Harbour Road, Aurora overlooks Hamilton Harbour for stellar vistas of the city. Featuring fresh, seasonal seafood from Bermuda’s best fisherman, Aurora truly embodies the “ocean to table” mantra. Diners can choose from a host of appetisers, like Passion Fruit Ceviche or Oysters Rockefeller, finishing off the night with blackened Bermuda rockfish or their Ocean Pappardelle. A true seafood-lover’s paradise, Aurora boasts a wide menu of local and imported fish and shellfish, paired only with the freshest local produce. Newstead Belmont Hills, 27 Harbour Road, Paget; 232-8686
  • Local Fish: M. Soares & Sons
  • Open Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Soares Grocery specialises in supplying fresh, local fish to loyal customers. If you’re looking for pre-prepared meal ideas, house-made wahoo or rockfish burgers are a signature as well. Stocking their fridge with the catch of the day, make sure to get there early before they sell out! 26 Spanish Point Road, Hamilton; 292-1426
  • Local Produce: Bermuda’s Farmers
  • This year, our judges want to give a special thank you to all of our island’s hard-working farmers, with an honourable mention to our community farms! Their unwavering dedication to providing Bermuda with fresh, local produce deserves to be celebrated by all. The judges added special kudos to the “new blood” coming into the industry, bringing newfound “ingenuity into the business” by exploring new ways to grow and serve the local community. To all our local farmers from the bottom of our hearts: Thank you for all that you do!
  • Butcher: The Butchers at Supermart
  • Time and time again, the friendly, familiar service from the butchers at the Supermart on Front Street secure their spot as fan-favourites. Eager to help provide delicious cuts of pork, lamb, beef or poultry, their fridge is also well-stocked with ready-to-cook, locally made sausages, burgers and kebabs. The judges and public agree that these wonderful butchers make a visit to the grocery store a much more pleasurable experience, serving loyal customers with a smile. 125 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-2064
  • Chef: Jonny Roberts at Bolero
  • With minimalism as the impetus behind his dishes, Chef Jonny Roberts creates extraordinary flavour combinations from simple, unpretentious ingredients. He executes each dish with the same flare as the last, producing consistent, award-winning plates alongside his small team. He keeps his clientele on their toes, tweaking the menu every so often to keep diners spellbound. With the newest inclusion of their tapas menu, patrons can experience more of Chef Roberts creativity in one sitting than ever before. Order up for the table, tasting a myriad of western European-infused flavours with both Tapas Classico and Vegetariana to choose from, coming out steaming as soon as they are prepared. 95 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-4507
Photo by Dion Easton Jr
  • Bartender: DeJavon Paynter
  • A natural-born artist, DeJavon is infusing his creative talents into mesmerisingly addictive aperitifs at the St. Regis Resort. Having the pleasure to be served some of his sumptuous creations at BLT Steak, his personality radiates through creatively garnished, crisp-flavoured cocktails. Concocted with homemade watermelon syrup, try the refreshingly tangy Watermelon & Jalapeño Margarita or, as the perfect summertime vice for rum lovers, opt for the Daniel’s Pineapple Punch. A quick glimpse behind the bar on a quieter night, you might catch DeJavon experimenting with dried fruit and fresh garnishes to elevate his presentation. Crafting house-made syrups out of rosemary, raspberry, and even spiced maple syrup, DeJavon is reinventing the wheel of specialty cocktails with a personable presence to match. 34 Coot Pond Road, St. George’s; 543-2222
  • Friendliest Waitstaff: Divots
  • Located just off the Number 9 green at Belmont Hills Golf Course, Divots is the blueprint for affable, friendly service. With an extensive binder menu, their waitstaff is always ready to offer up suggestions for indecisive guests. Need a top up on your glass of wine? It’s already being poured! Enjoy the sweeping views of the Great Sound from this laid-back establishment, stopping in after a round of golf for a cold beer, a hearty meal, and of course, friendly service. 25 Belmont Hills Drive, Middle Road, Warwick; 434-8687
  • Creative Cocktails: Sula Foggo at Beluga Bar
  • With Sula Foggo behind the bar, the creative cocktails at Beluga Bar are a must-try. A true mixologist, general manager Aldo Espozzito validates Sula’s creative process, sharing how he spends his free time scouring mixology books and experimenting with ingredients to master unexpected flavour combinations. With specialty cocktails featuring everything from hot sauce to orange blossom water, Sula’s innovative concoctions are truly something you have to taste for yourself. Washington Mall, 18 Church Street, Hamilton; 542-2859
  • Place for a Glass of Wine: Harry’s
  • In addition to winning for best place for a power lunch, Harry’s earns another win as the best spot to savour a glass of wine. Harry’s boasts an excellent, award-winning wine selection. As a multi-year Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner, their extensive selection of wines speaks for itself. You get “better value of better wine at Harry’s,” one judge notes, raving about the elevated overall “brand, quality and taste” of their carefully curated collection. 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 292-5533
  • Place to Watch Televised Sports: Flanagan’s Outback Sports Bar
  • Surrounded by 22 high-definition televisions, Flanagan’s Outback Sports Bar is an unbeatable spot for sports fans on game days. Whether in a booth with a personal TV or at the bar watching on the 63-inch screen, you’ll never miss a minute of the game. A great spot to congregate for the most anticipated rivalries, come ready to drink up, eat up, and cheer on your favourite players at Outback. 69 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-8299.
  • After-Work Hot Spot: Front Yard, Astwood Arms, Port O Call
  • If you’ve spent a Friday night in Bermuda, you’ve certainly hopped around this trifecta. The judges coined this as the “three-way tie” with their proximity making them natural feeders off one another. Over the last two years, the demand for outdoor bar space grew, and these three spots certainly adapted. Astwood Arms and Port O Call expanded their outdoor dining patios into ample sidewalk seating, allowing customers to enjoy cocktails and food amidst the lively street life of Front Street. Newest to the scene, Front Yard seals off the holy trinity with its open-air, high-energy atmosphere. No matter where you start, or where you end up, you’re guaranteed to have a great, boozy (potentially blurry) night out amongst this triple threat.
  • Wine/Liquor Sales: Two Rock Wine Co.
  • Securing the public vote, Two Rock Wine Co. offers Bermuda’s largest selection of fine wine, craft beer, spirits and more. Co-owned by entrepreneurs Mat Macdonald and John Sharpe, Two Rock was born from the initiative to bring new and exciting wines with wholesale pricing directly to the consumer. Join their Wine Club to get exclusive access to small batch, family-owned, biodynamic wines that you can’t find anywhere else on the island! 8 Harvey Road, Paget; 232-2325

*Vernon Pemberton and Ezekiel Stoneham abstained from voting in this category.

  • Pick-Up Bar: The Front Yard
  • A unanimous winner, The Front Yard has taken the cake for best pick-up bar in its breakout year. Front Street was in desperate need of an outdoor bar space after the pandemic hit, and owner Tom Steinhoff seized the opportunity to fill that void. Bustling on Friday and Saturday nights, you’ll often see people mingling on the impromptu dance floor of the lower patio. With fun, interactive games like cornhole, a wrap-around bar, bumping music and a delicious late-night food truck, The Front Yard is the newest hotspot in Bermuda for meeting old—and certainly new—friends. 77 Front Street, Hamilton; 296-8080
  • Pick-Up Bar (Honourable Mention): Casey’s Cocktail Lounge
  • Intimate and cosy, Casey’s Cocktail Lounge earns an honourable mention in the pick-up bar category, specifically for more mature audiences. Stop by for Happy Hour specials around the long, wooden bar, or tuck into a corner table with a new match. The simple, retro feel makes for great conversation, sipping on your staple cocktail in the company of your newfound companion. 25 Queen Street, Hamilton; 292-9994
  • Musician: Tino Martinez, Saxophonist
  • The judges felt passionately about Tino Martinez and his saxophone for best musician, infusing the culture of jazz back into the Bermuda music scene. Look out for his signature Soul Sessions with the Tino Martinez Quintet, to catch the powerfully smooth sound of his saxophone. A true master of his craft, Tino’s passionate playing can get anyone up off their feet! To ensure you don’t miss any upcoming performances, check out @tinomartinezsax
  • Bermuda-Made Food & Booze: UMAMI Bermuda
  • Started by “spiceologist” Rinelle White, UMAMI is taking the stress out of the kitchen with a range of pre-made spice blends. Making cooking more enjoyable for everybody, her carefully curated spice mixes are designed for both novice and expert chefs, bursting with fresh flavours to elevate any dish. The judges admired the versatility of UMAMI’s products, noting that customers “can use the spices for both food and drink.” www.umamibermuda.com
  • Codfish Breakfast: Roy’s Fine Food
  • One meal that many Bermudian diners are passionate about is their codfish breakfast. From 7 a.m. till noon, Roy’s is serving up traditional codfish and potatoes with the works: tomato sauce, glazed onion butter sauce, boiled egg, avocado, banana and homemade cornbread. The judges joked, “If you can’t go to your momma’s house, go to Roy’s!” 10 Headquarters Hill, Devonshire; 247-1790
  • Fish Chowder: Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio
  • Another Bermudian classic that requires absolute perfection is homey, hearty fish chowder. The judges felt confident in awarding Wahoo’s this honour, knowing chef Alfred Konrad to be “specific” about his chowder, executing a timeless recipe for years. Wahoo’s is a vital part of the St. George’s scene, a sure-fire stop-by for locals and visitors alike relishing a hot bowl of fish chowder on their harbourfront patio. 36 Water Street, St. George’s; 297-1307
  • Fish Sandwich: SeaSide Grill
  • Home of the best fish sandwich in Bermuda, customers truly can’t get enough of SeaSide Grill. The judges love the option to “choose your fish,” toppings, whether you want it fried or grilled, as well as your bread preference. At SeaSide, there are “always at least three different types” of fish to choose from, one judge adds. Supplied with local daily catches from sister company T.S. Fisheries, fresh fish is their guarantee. You can also order online at www.seasidegrill.bm for a seamless takeout experience. 81 North Shore Road, Devonshire; 292-1241
  • Food/Drink Social Media Presence: Nourished Bermuda
  • Nourished Bermuda is providing the island with fresh, plant-powered meal prep—and they’re tactfully using social media to spread the word! With an active, colourful Instagram feed, Nourished is giving an honest look into their process and product. Their social media presence is fun and youthful, creatively sharing simple reasons to “fuel your best life.”  @nourishedbermuda; www.nourishedbermuda.com
  • Food Delivery App: Sargasso Sea
  • A unanimous decision amongst the judges and the public, Sargasso Sea is everyone’s go-to for fast, friendly food delivery. While the judges want to encourage those who can go out and support the local restaurant industry to do so, Sargasso Sea is an undeniable turn-to when you’re looking for your favourite foods delivered straight to your door. Sargassosea.app
  • Bang for Your Buck: D&C Grill, Devil’s Hole
  • For fresh, tasty, bang-for-your-buck Jamaican fare, D&C Grill is an unequivocal local favourite. Operating out of a small, stand-alone yellow building across the street from the old Devil’s Hole Aquarium, this roadside spot is a revolving door of satisfied customers. Serving up simple, homey dishes with anything-but-simple flavours, every bite is bursting with jerk spices and Caribbean soul. Devil’s Hole, Smith’s; 734-8717
  • Drunk Food: Jor-Jays Takeout
  • There’s something about food trucks and under-the-influence, after-hour cravings that fit so perfectly together. Jor-Jays has been a reliable stop for the drunken mass exodus from the busy bar scene on Friday or Saturday nights. Located in the parking lot across from The Supermart, it’s a quick and easy pit stop on your way out of town. Frying up juicy burgers, crispy tenders and well-seasoned fries, this iconic red-and-white wagon will be waiting for you on your next late-night hunt for fast food. Front Street, Hamilton; 296-3114
  • Baked Goods: Tuck Shop
  • With another year comes another win for the Tuck Shop, as owner Alicia Tucker continues to outdo herself. Crafting small-batch, organic, handmade delicacies, patrons will go out of their way to visit the Southampton storefront to secure these goodies. With a showcase full of financiers, oatmeal raisin cookies, organic olive oil lemon muffins, coffee chocolate crinkle cookies and many more, every sweet tooth will be satisfied by the Tuck Shop. Their sugar cookies make great party favours, too, intricately iced and hand-painted in stunning detail to create whimsical treats for any occasion. 235 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-8825
  • Ice Cream: Leslie’s Desserts
  • Operating out of a can’t-miss, chrome Airstream with a pink LED sign, Leslie’s Desserts is the perfect stop for an afternoon or evening sweet treat. It’s anything but your typical ice cream truck, serving up scoops in handheld bubble waffles or crepes, in sundaes, milkshakes or atop a warm bed of Belgian waffle. Leslie’s is bringing some needed fun and creativity back into the dessert scene! Open 7 days of the week from 1–9 p.m., be sure to stop by Victoria Park the next time you’re craving something sweet! Victoria Park, Park Road, Hamilton; 737-1999
  • Judges
  • Ezekiel Stoneham – Diageo brand manager, Burrows Lightbourn Ltd
  • Vernon Pemberton – Brand Ambassador, Bacardi Ltd.
  • Shalini Tucker – Underutilized commercial kitchens program manager, BEDC
  • Michael DeCouto, EVP and chief digital and marketing officer, Clarien Bank Limited
  • Penny MacIntyre – Partner, Rego Sotheby’s International Realty