Award of Excellence: Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio
Receiving the most mentions amongst voters and wins in three additional categories this year, Wahoo’s rightfully earns the coveted Award of Excellence for its consistency, friendly waitstaff and “staple” status. Tucked along St. George’s historic Water Street, Wahoo’s invites patrons to dine on the outdoor deck and take in waterfront views overlooking St. George’s Harbour. Owned and operated by Alfred Konrad and Geza Wolf, Wahoo’s won the admiration of our judges for the owners’ “personable” presence at the establishment. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a regular, Wahoo’s is “always busy” no matter the season, agree the judges. With fresh fish guaranteed daily in signature dishes like Wahoo Nuggets, Rockfish Picasso and their celebrated fish chowder, “Wahoo’s is the place to be,” as one judge quite simply puts it.
36 Water Street, St. George’s; 297-130
Cup of Java: Rock Island Coffee
Rock Island Coffee secured this year’s Cup of Java award, with judges praising the café as a consistent hotspot that’s “been around forever.” One judge chimed in to applaud the cafe’s authenticity, saying, “They’re not pretentious, they are who they are.” While they snagged the award for their quality coffee, Rock Island is a hub for good conversation, affable service, great art and a relaxed, retro ambiance. 48 Reid Street, Hamilton; 296-5241
Bread: l’Artisan Boulangerie
Newer to the scene, l’Artisan Boulangerie procures the Best of Bermuda award for their freshly baked bread. Located on the ground floor of Point House, this traditional French boulangerie offers up authentic bread made in-house with ingredients sourced directly from France and local Bermuda suppliers. “I make a special stop to buy their bread to make sandwiches at home,” one judge shares, nodding to a selection ranging from baguettes to sourdough to walnut and raisin bread. Pop in to pick up a delicious loaf for easy, at-home sandwich making, or try one of their divine pre-made sandwiches for lunch on the go.
Point House, 6 Front Street, Hamilton; bonjour@lartisan.bm
Breakfast: Bouchée Bistro Français
Bouchée is the breakfast spot that truly never gets old, with eager diners revisiting time and time again. Perfecting everything from savoury crêpes to eggs benedict to a traditional codfish breakfast, Bouchée has mastered the gamut of breakfast foods. Teeming with hungry brunchers on any given Saturday or Sunday morning, Bouchée’s “consistent” nature is a testament to its historic number of wins in this category, agree the judges.
75 Pitt’s Bay Road, Hamilton; 295 575
Favourite Pub: Hog Penny Pub
Hog Penny, as one judge puts it and we’re sure all patrons will agree, is the “definition of a pub.” Since 1957, Hog Penny has been serving up traditional British pub classics like chicken pot pie and fish and chips in a nostalgic, early-twentieth-century wooden time capsule. Coupled with the friendliest waitstaff, spirited quiz nights and legendary live acoustic music, few walk—or stumble—out of this cozy, classic bar without a fond memory to accompany them. The history behind this charming pub is equally as compelling. Originally operating as a bicycle shop selling Penny Farthing bicycles and then a meat slaughterhouse and fishmongers, before finally opening its doors as a pub, Hog Penny was born as a fitting homage to both its former lives.
5 Burnaby Street, Hamilton; 292-2534
Place for a Power Lunch: Barracuda Grill
Conveniently located above Hog Penny, Barracuda Grill is another one of the Island Restaurant Group’s standout hotspots. This contemporary fine dining spot caters to high-brow clientele, making it the perfect place for a corporate lunch. Barracuda Grill also offers a business lunch special, positioning it as a no-brainer when it comes to planning your next deal-sealing meal with clients or colleagues.
5 Burnaby Street, Hamilton; 292-1609
Burger: The Swizzle Inn Pub & Restaurant
As Bermuda’s oldest pub and “Home of the Rum Swizzle,” The Swizzle Inn is easily one of the island’s most recognisable and famed eateries. If only the walls could talk, well here they almost do, encouragingly graffitied by generations of visitors and locals alike. Tacked onto these historic walls you can even find business cards and dollar bills. Serving simple, delicious dishes in an unpretentious, roadside hub, it is Swizzle Inn’s burger that earns them a Best of Bermuda award this year. Their original Swizzle Burger is perfect when you’re craving a no-frills cheeseburger, topped with all the classics—bacon, cheddar, lettuce, tomato and pickles. It was high time the Swizzle Inn got the recognition it deserves, the judges agreed.
3 Blue Hole Hill, Bailey’s Bay; 293-1854
Great Sandwich: l’Artisan Boulangerie – It’s a Tie!
At l’Artisan, the judges raved about Le Veggie sandwich, an homage to a caprese salad made on their homemade olive bread, with one judge deeming it “to die for.” If you want to enjoy your lunch in-house, l’Artisan offers space to sit, recommended with a house-made cappuccino in hand, in their contemporary lounge space. Point House, 6 Front Street, Hamilton
Great Sandwich: Delicious Deli & Buffet
For a more affordable option, Delicious Deli & Buffet dominates lunch hour in the Washington Mall. Their custom-made sandwiches are always a hit, perfect for busy professionals looking for a quick and easy lunch option. Washington Mall, Hamilton; 505-2859
Food Truck: Paco’s Tacos
Paco’s Tacos has quickly become a can’t-miss pitstop for hungry passersby along Front Street’s waterfront. Owned and operated by local duo Kryshae Furbert-Wilson and Tarreko Wilson, this Mexican-inspired food truck is serving up fresh and flavourful tacos in their unmissable white wagon. “And they have sustainable packaging!” one judge applauds. With three tacos per box and unlimited toppings, Paco’s Tacos is a guaranteed quick fix for starving clientele.
Front Street, Hamilton; 704-TACO (8226)
Lunch on the Go: Soulfood Grill & Café
Soulfood Grill is an undeniable takeout and catering staple on Court Street, putting the “soul” in Soul Food for years. “They’re consistent and always busy,” one judge comments, adding, “I’ve never had a bad experience there.” This bustling hotspot serves up authentic island cuisine, like fish cakes and jerk chicken legs, and is respected as “great value for money,” a loyal patron shares.
53 Court Street, Hamilton; 292-0940
Diner: Island Cuisine
For the second year in a row, Island Cuisine claimed the title as the fan-favourite diner on the island. This family-friendly eatery prides itself on homestyle cooking, serving up breakfast all day in classic diner fashion. Stop into their unmissable blue storefront, grab a seat at the counter or in one of their signature booths and enjoy everything from fish cakes and eggs to French toast to chicken roti. No matter what time of day you go, you can’t go wrong at this stalwart spot in the west end.
235 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-3287
Salad: WildGreens
Opening its doors last fall, WildGreens is the newest stop for salad lovers in town. Heralded as “Bermuda’s Sweetgreen,” as one judge puts it, WildGreens follows the same model as a salad bar, but with friendly employees building the bowl to your preference. Lunchtime has never been so quick and easy; simply pick your base, load it up with five fresh toppings and a dressing of your choice, and voilà! Their custom salads are a crowd favourite as well, with their Southshore and Kokomo bowls, made using locally sourced ingredients like Tucker’s Farm Goat Cheese, earning high praise.
17 Front Street, Hamilton; 261-8383
Salad Bar: Café 4
Café 4 is a tried-and-true lunchtime favourite amongst working professionals in the heart of Hamilton, offering locally grown and organic produce in their salad bar. They are the only café in Bermuda to offer 18 different dressings, so building your own salad is never boring or repetitive!
Windsor Place, 18 Queen Street, Hamilton; 295-844
Sushi: Yashi Sushi Bar
Somewhat of a hidden gem tucked away behind Coconut Rock, Yashi is an undeniable local favourite for authentic, a la carte nigiri, sashimi and handcrafted rolls. Praised for their friendly service, generous portions and relaxed atmosphere, their sushi is unequivocally “so fresh, so perfectly prepared,” one satisfied customer comments. If you’re looking to sample one of their special rolls, the Ying Yang Dragon Roll and Rock ‘n’ Roll Maki come highly recommended.
20 Reid Street, Hamilton; 296-6226
Dining-In Pizza: Sul Verde
Located atop the Tucker’s Point Golf Course on the Rosewood hotel property, Sul Verde confidently brings the tastes of Southern Italy to Bermuda. A dine-in favourite amongst the judges, their elegant, open dining room lined with French doors and a wrap-around porch, makes it the perfect setting to savour one of their thin and crispy pizzas. The Diavola is a crowd-favourite, marrying spicy pepperoni, chili oil and mozzarella for a superbly hot and balanced bite. Whether enjoying convivial company or a romantic evening for two, prepare to take in vistas of rolling golf greens and picture-perfect sunsets while dining at Sul Verde.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish; 298-6983
Take-out Pizza: Pizza House, Heron Bay
For consistent, reliable take-out pizza, Pizza House at Heron Bay is your go-to. Snagging the win for a multitude of reasons, their “great, friendly staff” sealed the deal for the judges. If you’re lucky enough to live nearby, we’re sure this is a regular stop for you, conveniently located in the Heron Bay Marketplace.
227 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-2753
Place for Veggie Lovers: Alkaline Triangle
Alkaline Triangle is an eclectic vegan food truck, serving up creative plant-based dishes from the mind of the owner Jamel Minors. Minors is bringing a more health-conscious mentality to fast food on the island, and you can find him and his wagon on Front Street. If you’re looking for recommendations, some fan favourites include the Loaded Fries, made from plantain, exotic Jungle Salad and Volcano Wrap.
Front Street, Hamilton; 704-1100
Ethnic Cuisine: Ruby Murry’s
How can one restaurant possibly do justice to 30,000 years of culinary heritage? Well, Ruby Murry’s does. Emulating the many flavours of India, “from Madurai to Mumbai, from Kolkata to Jaipur,” Ruby Murry’s menu pays homage to a range of dishes across the country. Diners can choose to savour these plates in a charming, dine-in setting as well, making Ruby Murry’s a unanimous winner amongst our judges.
Chancery Lane, Hamilton; 295 5058
Fine Dining: Tom Moore’s Tavern
“Elegant,” “refined,” and “historic”—a few words that come to mind when one thinks of Tom Moore’s Tavern. As soon as you’ve stepped foot through the doorway, it feels “almost like stepping back an era,” one judge marvels. With an extensive wine list and an exquisite menu perfected by executive chef Robert Nicolle, it sets the standard for white tablecloth dining. Playing host to some three million patrons—spanning celebrity to royalty—over the last two centuries, Tom Moore’s remains a timeless, indeed, time-defying cornerstone of Bermuda’s fine dining scene.
7 Walsingham Lane, Hamilton; 293-8020
Ambience: Intrepid Steak, Seafood & Raw Bar
Located in the dazzlingly eccentric Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club, Intrepid is a perfectly refined dining complement to the hotel’s whimsy. The restaurant is helmed by the hotel’s new executive chef de cuisine, Antwan Ellis, who has curated delectable steakhouse and seafood favourites to complement this tasteful Art Deco space. Slowly dimming to a romantic glow with the setting sun, the restaurant’s beauty is augmented by floor-to-ceiling panoramic views of Hamilton Harbour. With attentive waitstaff who are eager to answer any and all questions from quirky art to “smoked” libations, don’t forget to ask about the inspiration behind the restaurant—it’s a tale you won’t want to miss!
Hamilton Princess, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road; 295-3000
Hotel Restaurant: Sunken Harbor Club
Sunken Harbor Club is the newest addition to the Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa, operating as the Bermuda chapter of the flagship Brooklyn bar. Sit and savour tropical cocktails overlooking Mangrove Bay while you peruse a menu rich with Caribbean and Portuguese influences. Met with rave reviews since its September opening from visitors and locals alike, our judges chime in to sing their praises. “They’ve kept it classic but elevated,” one judge comments, cheerfully adding, “all the staff were fantastic, the menu was fantastic!”
30 King’s Point Road, Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa, Sandys; 234-0331
Sunday Brunch: The Pink Beach Club at The Loren
From 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sundays, you can leisurely make your way over to The Pink Beach Club at The Loren to enjoy brunch in the open air. Prepare to take in panoramic views of the Atlantic on their stunning ocean-level terrace, while you start your not-so-lazy Sunday with a fresh juice or coffee. With a “nice selection” to choose from, our judges deem the $65 prix fixe menu “well worth it” for a three-course meal. Relish upscale twists on classics like Brioche French Toast or Fried Chicken & Cheddar Cheese Waffle with a rum maple syrup, in no better Bermudian fashion than alfresco dining.
116 South Shore Road, Tucker’s Town; 293-1666
Kid-Friendly Restaurant: Paraquet Restaurant
Paraquet has a generational charm that won over the public and our judges, faithfully serving families for over 50 years. There’s an unmistakable “warm and fuzzy,” “real family feel” when enjoying homestyle favourites seated atop Paraquet’s diner stools in front of their signature word-search placemats, the judges reminisce, with many having fond memories from their own childhoods. With a kids’ menu designed for even the pickiest of eaters, topped with the “best milkshakes on the island,” Paraquet is the perfect place for a family outing.
68 South Road, Paget; 236-9742
Private Dining Room: Island Brasserie
Located in the spectacularly charming Rosewood Bermuda, The Rum Room at Island Brasserie offers an unparalleled private dining experience. Perfect for impressing clients or bringing family and friends together to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary, their private dining room plays a prestigious host. With thousands of rum and wine bottles decorating the walls, paired with dark-wood accents and a brick ceiling, this modern steakhouse offers an ideally intimate space for you and your guests.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish; 298-4070
Out-of-Town Eatery: Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio
Described by our judges as “off the beaten path,” the journey to Wahoo’s continues to be one that non-eastenders happily make. This waterside bistro and patio can be found in the historic town of St. George’s, nestled along the cobblestoned Water Street. Respected for their daily fresh fish specials and tenure of service, Wahoo’s has long since secured its spot as a “St. George’s staple,” the judges agree.
36 Water Street, St. George’s; 297 1307
Alfresco Dining: Coconuts at The Reefs Resort & Club
If you’re visiting the island, dining alfresco is a must, and Coconuts at The Reefs is about as open-air as it gets. Sit off on their deck overlooking the beach or with your toes in the sand at one of their idyllic beachside tables romantically lit by tiki torches and the setting sun. In the summertime, Coconuts plays host to vivacious beach barbecues, complete with live music, a buffet laden with seasonal summer salads, fresh grilled fish and a dessert spread that begs you to save room. A unanimous stand-alone amongst the judges, Coconuts continues to set the standard for alfresco dining.
56 South Road, Southampton; 238-0222
Cake Maker: Frost Bites Cookie Co.
Run by home baker Linnea, Frost Bites has undeniably raised the bar for local cake design. Crafting celebratory tiered cakes for every occasion—from weddings to baby showers to birthdays—Linnea’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in every one of her designs. Tempt yourself with breathtaking previews almost as appetising as the real thing on www.frostbitesbda.com, where sweet tooths can also find expertly decorated cookies and mouthwatering baked goods in her portfolio.
frostbitesbda@outlook.com
Honourable Mention: The Supermart
The Supermart is your one-stop shop for “cake on the go,” one judge confirms. With one of the largest scratch bakeries on island, their delicious cakes are freshly baked daily.
125 Front Street, Hamilton; 292-2064
Dine-in Seafood Restaurant: Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio
Back again with another win, Wahoo’s was voted the best dine-in spot to sit and savour seafood. An obvious homage to their namesake, fresh wahoo is available in specialty appetisers like Smoked Wahoo Pate or Baha Style Wahoo Tacos and in crowd-pleasing entrees like the Grilled Wahoo or Jerked Wahoo Wrap that keep guests coming back for more.
36 Water Street, St. George’s; 297 1307
Take-Out Seafood Restaurant: SeaSide Grill
SeaSide Grill is serving up some of the freshest, best seafood on the island, courtesy of sister company T.S. Fisheries. With two store locations open for pickup or delivery, SeaSide is a convenient hotspot for locally harvested seafood year-round. A Best of Bermuda winner for their loaded fish sandwich, SeaSide Grill boasts a fish sandwich highly recommended with the option to customise how you like your fish prepared, toppings and bread choice.
81 North Shore Road, Devonshire; 292-1241; 121 Horseshoe Road Southampton; 621-7000
Local Fish/Fisherman: Sexy Reef Ambassadors
This team is saving Bermuda’s reefs by hunting invasive species, one lionfish at a time. Our judges commend their cause, recognising an emphasis on “sustainable fishing,” helping protect the island from a serious threat. A true win-win, the team sells their catch to local businesses, notably The Loren Hotel, which masterfully prepares dishes like lionfish ceviche for eager seafood lovers.
@sexy_reef_ambassadors on Instagram
Local Produce: Wadson’s Farm
Wadson’s Farm has been sustainably growing produce since 1976, supplying their bountiful harvest to the island. The affable Tom Wadson helms the operation, and the judges commend his efforts to give back to the local community, from hosting “fun events for kids” to educational farm group tours and their Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programme. Encouraging islanders to “eat what’s local and fresh,” Wadson’s Home Farm Market provides customers with fresh fruits, farm herbs and vegetables throughout the week.
10 Luke’s Pond Road, Southampton; 238-1862
Butcher: The Supermart
No stranger to this category, the butchers at The Supermart secure their claim as the best on the island for another year running. The familiar faces behind the counter make a trip to the store that much more seamless, dishing out premium cuts of meat for any occasion.
125 Front Street, Hamilton; 292 2064
Chef: James Wambui
James Wambui is the executive chef at The Cloud, Bermuda’s newest and hottest rooftop venue. Wambui is accredited with taking out-of-the-box culinary risks, with one judge pointing out that “he’s not afraid of trying new things.” His creativity is unparalleled, “elevating the dining experience” on the island with a drive to “take every single restaurant where he goes to the next level.” You can often find Wambui perusing the aisles of Miles Market sourcing inspiration and fresh ingredients daily, another testament to his intuitive menu-building and devotion to his craft.
Wellesley House, 3rd Floor, 90 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 299-0620
Friendliest Waitstaff: Wahoo’s
Claiming its third win in Food, Drink & Fun, along with this year’s Award of Excellence, Wahoo’s acknowledges its amiable waitstaff play a huge role in the establishment’s success. Happy to answer questions or to recommend their favourite dishes, the service at Wahoo’s adds to an already relaxed dining experience.
36 Water Street, St. George’s; 297 1307
Creative Cocktails: Izzy at Conservatory Bar & Lounge, Rosewood Bermuda
Israel Bennett, or Izzy as her loyal customers know her, can be found confidently crafting primarily gin-themed cocktails at the Conservatory Bar. In one of the most unique bar settings the island has to offer, Bennet commands the double-sided bar—the centrepiece between the atrium and lounge. “She is just amazing,” one judge gushes, adding, “She is so personable and so caring, and she remembers everybody!” Adding to Bennett’s accolades, the judges say her knowledge of mixology has grown over the last two years, and she is always “willing to try something different” and take risks.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish; 298-4013
Place for a Glass of Wine: The Tasting Room
A unanimous winner, The Tasting Room has been an instant success and amazing addition to Bermuda’s hospitality scene since its opening in late 2021. With one of the best selections of wine and the first tasting room experience on the island, The Tasting Room gives customers a chance to try before they buy, and the judges agree they’re “glad we finally have a concept like that here.” Stop in to sample a glass of wine, or a few, amidst good company in a lively setting.
#8A South Road, Smith’s; 292-7666
Place to Watch Televised Sports: The Docksider Pub and Restaurant
Docksiders, or “Dockies” as it’s lovingly referred to by regulars, is the best place to catch a live match. Their pillared entrance is a welcome sight on Front Street, opening into a long, wooden bar facing a string of always-on TVs. Whether you’re enjoying pub classics in a booth or in their open-plan back bar, each room is curated for optimal sport-watching. “It’s all about the placement of TVs,” one judge remarks, and with twenty screens to choose from, Dockies ensures you won’t miss a minute cheering on your favourite team.
121 Front Street, Hamilton; 296-3333
After-Work Hot Spot: Harry’s at The Waterfront
Harry’s is a Happy Hour hot spot with busy professionals looking for a post-work refresh. Whether indoors in the bar room or outside on the Waterfront patio, Harry’s is always buzzing with guests enjoying animated conversation, timeless cocktails and delicious light bites amongst colleagues and friends.
96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 292-5533
Honourable Mention: Place’s Place
Our judges would be remiss to let another year go by without recognising another local favourite, Place’s Place. This cash-only establishment is a lively neighbourhood bar tucked away on Dundonald Street, and if you’re lucky, you just might get a surprise visit from the Gombeys.
43 Dundonald Street, Hamilton; 293-9268
Wine Sales: The Tasting Room
With friendly staff who are always willing to educate patrons about their carefully curated wine collection, buying a bottle at The Tasting Room is “a whole experience,” notes one judge. You can even search wines by food on their website, finding the perfect pairings for any meal. For wine lovers and aspiring sommeliers, their wine club The Sip Society offers monthly wine selections delivered directly to you. “They are doing an amazing job,” concludes another judge.
#8A South Road, Smith’s; 292-7666
Liquor Store: Serpentine Liquors
Open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Serpentine Liquors is a reliable source for all your liquor needs. With “decent pricing” and “helpful staff,” you’ll be in and out with your favourite spirits secured in no time. Our judges also commend their “extensive wine collection,” offering something for every palate.
15 Serpentine Road, Pembroke; 292-7842
Pickup Bar: Front Yard
Snagging this award for the second year in a row, Front Yard remains a favourite for mixing and mingling in Bermuda. Their open bar area and ample dance floor space make for the perfect spot to meet new people, breaking the ice with a game of life-size Jenga or cornhole. During the summer months, Front Yard is sure to be jam-packed every night of the week with hopeful singles.
77 Front Street, Hamilton, 296-8080
Musical Group: Working Title
Sweeping the public vote and earning the judges’ praises for their infectious energy and dogged work ethic, Working Title is a local band loved by crowds and hosts alike since 2008. Whether playing for adoring fans at a local venue, a private party or a wedding, Working Title “commands” their audience, our judges agree. This talented bunch of dedicated musicians take on everything from pop to reggae to rock, rhythm & blues and calypso. Looking to hire for your next event?
moments@workingtitleband.com
Musician: Quinn Kayo
Quinn Kayo is an “up and coming” young Bermudian artist whom the judges compliment as “so talented.” “She’s fantastic,” another judge chimes in to add. “She blew us all away!” Often seen performing live at open mic nights or for Live Vibes at The Birdcage, Quinn’s chillingly transcendent voice is one you have to hear for yourself.
@quinnkayo_ on Instagram
Bermuda-Made Food: UMAMI Bermuda
UMAMI won over the hearts (and stomachs) of voters, with the judges calling the business a “hands down” winner. Rinelle White, the “spiceologist” behind the brand, has carefully curated a collection of spice blends for home chefs over the last five years. “She has spices for everything!” comments one judge, nodding to her Starter Kit option for those wanting to experiment with several blends. “She’s so passionate about what she does,” adds another. Designed to make home cooking easier, tastier and healthier, UMAMI is hitting every mark, with one happy customer sharing, “I only cook because UMAMI exists.”
www.umamibermuda.com
Bermuda-Made Booze: 9 Parishes
In the inaugural year for this category, 9 Parishes—the Authentic Bermuda Rum Swizzle—swept the public vote. Owner Chris Furbert is “doing a great job,” remarked our judges, recognising a niche to merchandise the island’s national drink. After fielding questions and demands from tourists for years during countless taxi rides, Furbert began his small-batch production in the summer of 2017. “His marketing and his branding are sensational,” the judges agree, and the signature rainbow-ombre bottle stands out on any shelf.
www.9parishesbda.com
Codfish Breakfast: Royal Artillery Association
A neighbourhood hilltop hub housed in an unmissable bright blue building, Gunners Cafe at the RA Association is this year’s standout for a traditional codfish breakfast. “Take a drive out to St. George’s,” encourages one judge, past the St. Regis Resort and along Grenadier Lane. “It’s worth the trip.”
3 Grenadier Lane, St. George’s
Honorable Mention: Temptations Café
Temptations Café is another beloved breakfast spot in the east end, serving up homey dishes in a laid-back environment. Take in harbour views while you enjoy your codfish breakfast. “It’s awesome!” exclaims one of the judges.
18 Wellington Street, St. George’s; 297-1368
Fish Chowder: Hog Penny
Hog Penny claims its second award this year for Best Fish Chowder, faithfully serving this hearty local comfort dish for over five decades. This rich blend of fish and vegetables seasoned to perfection with black rum and sherry peppers doesn’t stray from tradition.
5 Burnaby Street, Hamilton, 292-2534
Fish Sandwich East: Café Olé
Café Olé has been a cornerstone of the east end for years, whether amongst its regulars, cyclists stopping by for a mid-ride bite, or hungry tourists popping in after a tantalising tour of the Crystal Caves. After recently undergoing a move to Crawl Hill and a total brand refresh, this award is an homage to five faithful years of fan-favourite fish sandwiches and service from Café Olé. Luckily for loyal patrons, owner Stefano Barioni ensures that this award-winning delicacy will follow him wherever he goes.
6 Workmen’s Lane, Hamilton Parish
Fish Sandwich West: Woody’s Sports Bar & Restaurant
After trying Woody’s fish sandwich for the first time, one judge admitted: “I think my life has changed.” Prepared plain and simple with fresh wahoo or snapper, coleslaw and tartar sauce on raisin toast, “it’s just so good,” agree the judges. In the summertime, mariners can dock across the street and walk in to order their fish sandwich. Whether you take it to go or choose to devour it at one of their open-air picnic tables, Woody’s “Famous Fish Sandwich” remains unrivalled in the west.
1 Woody’s Drive, Somerset, 234-6526
Food/Drink Social Media Presence: Discovery Wines & Spirits
The judges commend Discovery Wines for their social media presence, agreeing, “They do a great job” and “They have fun with it.” Posting regularly on Instagram, the business’ feed is full of personable videos offering insightful wine reviews, along with promotions for pop-up tasting events in-house and islandwide.
@discoverywinesbda on Instagram
Food Delivery App: Sargasso Sea
Year after year, Sargasso Sea continues to fill the community’s need for reliable, efficient food delivery service. Acknowledged as Bermuda’s premier on-demand marketplace, the judges applaud the app’s impressive growth over the last few years, branching into new markets and vendors ensuring consumers have access to whatever product they might need at the tip of their fingers.
sargassosea.app
Bang for Your Buck: Coconut Rock
Coconut Rock’s win received an excited cheer from our judges, who respect the reasonably priced menu. “You can sit down and eat for under $100 for two,” one judge shares. Diners know this is a rarity in Bermuda, making Coconut Rock a cult favourite for patrons looking for a casual meal with a reasonable price tag.
20 Reid Street, Hamilton; 292-1043
Drunk Food: Jor-Jays
A stalwart in this category, Jor-Jay’s does it again! Located across from Docksider’s, it’s the automatic perfect ending to any bar crawl along the “Front Street Mile.” The unmissable red and white truck has been a magnet to boozy clientele for years, and we’re confident that’s never going to change.
Front Street Parking Lot No. 40 (opposite The Supermart); 296 3114
Baked Goods: Tuck Shop
In another year of continued excellence, Alicia Tucker and her Tuck Shop have outbaked the competition yet again. A confectioner’s dream, the Tuck Shop always has their skillfully piped organic sweet treats, handmade in small batches, on display. And the Tuck Shop also accommodates personalised order requests!
235 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-8825
Ice Cream East: Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour
With just too much sugary, creamy goodness to choose between, our judges decided to split this category down the middle of the island. Snagging the award for Bermuda’s Best Ice Cream in the east end, the hallmarked Bailey’s Bay Ice Cream Parlour emerged as the frontrunner. This “old school,” cash-only joint is unmissable, housed in its signature retro minty green and bubble-gum pink storefront. With over 30 flavours of ice cream and sorbet to choose from, clusters of happy customers can be seen at all times of the year enjoying ice cream cones outside Bailey’s Bay.
2 Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton Parish; 293-8605
Ice Cream West: Scoops Ice Cream & Cupcake Cafe
For ice cream lovers of all ages in the west end, Scoops is your sugary sweet spot. Scoops is kid- and parent-approved, offering up classics from Cookies & Cream and Mint Chip Chocolate Swirl to funky flavours like Lucky Charms and Papa Smurf. With the humid summer months at hand, be sure to stop by for a taste when you’re in the neighbourhood!
237 Middle Road, Southampton, 238-5382
Vegan Food: Nourished Bermuda
Nourished is Bermuda’s plant-powered meal prep go-to, with nutrition and affordability at its core. Only $13.95 per meal, Nourished lets you choose and customise from five to ten everyday lunch and dinner dishes, making eating healthily easier and more affordable. Pick up your plant-based meals every Friday or Sunday, starting off your weekend or your week on a health kick.
@nourishedbermuda on Instagram; www.nourishedbermuda.com
Judges
Mia Chambray – Co-owner at Cassine
Abstained from voting in the Musician and Musical Group categories.
Nagma Walker – General manager at Azura Bermuda
Jereme Ramsay – Director of business development and client relations at SS&C Technologies
Krystina Robinson – Global brand director, Grey Goose
Chris Furbert – Founder and owner of 9 Parishes Rum Swizzle
Abstained from voting in the Food Truck and Bermuda-Made Booze categories.
