Award of Excellence: The Waterlot
After a four-year hiatus, The Waterlot was welcomed back to Bermuda’s fine-dining scene with open arms, reclaiming its reputation as the island’s most sought-after epicurean experience. With roots as an inn dating back to 1670, The Waterlot has been a cornerstone of Bermudian hospitality for centuries. This reimagined, subtly rebranded steakhouse combines our island’s heritage with a classic chophouse feel, creating a one-of-a-kind dining affair. “When Waterlot was out of the game, there was a void,” one judge admits. “They came back into the landscape, and we immediately saw a rise in terms of service, delivery and product.”
An evening spent at The Waterlot is an evening cherished. Take advantage of the cosy upstairs bar before heading down the open-armed staircase into the heart of the dining room. Start the night with an upscaled appetizer like their Oysters Rockefoiegras, followed by a tender cut of aged steak, rounding out the courses with their unforgettable Sticky Toffee Pudding. Operating in a “league of its own” – add a charming nautical ambiance, knowledgeable sommeliers and “impeccable service” to the mix – it’s no mystery why The Waterlot was crowned this year’s Award of Excellence winner.
183 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-6136; thewaterlot.bm
Cup of Java: Lattes
The new kid on the block, Lattes snagged its first-ever Best of Bermuda award, impressing the judges with its “ingenuity,” “interactive concept,” and of course, “incredible lattes.” This out-of-town coffee shop & bakery is bringing a new buzz to the neighbourhood, serving classic and specialty coffees in a quaint roadside pitstop on Chapel Road. “What they’ve done in their space is phenomenal,” one judge remarks, transforming an old church into an über-popular cafe oasis.
19 Chapel Road, Paget; 261-2622; lattes.bm
Breakfast: The Cloud
“The atmosphere is like you’re not in Bermuda anymore,” a judge notes, with a light and airy al fresco patio paying perfect homage to its namesake. Conveniently housed on the third floor of Wellesley House, the judges agree that enjoying breakfast at The Cloud is a great way to start the day. “They do it all,” one judge adds, offering “creative menus for everything,” including craft coffees, protein shakes and matcha to kickstart your morning, as well as healthier and vegan meal options from Shakshuka to Challah French Toast.
90 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 299-0620; waterfrontcloud.bm
Favourite Pub: Hog Penny
A cornerstone of Hamilton, Hog Penny has been a pub-culture pioneer on the island since 1963. Drop in to enjoy hearty British pub favourites like Chicken Pot Pie and traditional beer-battered Fish and Chips—made with locally brewed beer—and wash it all down with a crisp pint of draught beer. On weekends, Hog Penny comes alive with live music performances, best enjoyed on your feet or cosied up with friends in their signature red leather booths until closing. 5 Burnaby Street, Hamilton; 292-2534; irg.bm/hogpennypub
Place for a Power Lunch: Harry’s
Primely poised at the epicentre of Bermuda’s business hub, Harry’s is an uncontested go-to for a professional power lunch. Securing the popular vote, the public agrees that Harry’s is the place to impress a client, host a business lunch or debrief with colleagues, catering to the suit-clad businessmen and women of Hamilton during the lunchtime rush.
96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 292-5533; harrys.bm
Hamburger: Village Pantry
A Flatt’s staple, Village Pantry received the highest praise for their hamburger, which one judge deems their “favourite burger of all time.” A gourmet-style burger, this thick and juicy menu item deserves all the hype, featuring an 8-ounce grass-fed patty abed a fluffy brioche bun, truffle mayo and crispy onions, topped off with their signature bacon jam and mango-chili chutney combo for a perfect marriage of salty and sweet in every bite.
8 North Shore Road, Flatts Village; 478-2300; villagepantry.bm
Food Truck: Croffle Haus
For the judges, newbie Croffle Haus was a “hands down” winner, combining two breakfast staples to bring the novel “croffle”—croissant-waffle hybrid—to Dockyard. Upgrading from tent to trailer last year, you can find their bright-blue wagon parked near Snorkel Park and the National Museum, serving up sweet treats all day long. Pop by to try a signature Croffle with “haus-made” whipped cream and toppings, limited-edition flavour combos, or their new mini, crispy Croffle Bites!
Maritime Lane, Royal Naval Dockyard, @crofflehausbda
Lunch On-the-Go: Seaside Grill
Whether you’re stopping by their North Shore or Southampton location, Seaside Grill is a consistent and quick lunchtime hotspot. Sweeping the popular vote, Seaside’s cracked the code to keeping its high volume of customers satisfied and smiling, serving up fresh fish daily, most notably in their Best of Bermuda award-winning fish sandwich. Made to order in just fifteen minutes or less, you can also order online at www.seasidegrill.bm for a seamless takeout experience.
81 North Shore Road, Devonshire; 292-1241
121 Horseshoe Road, Southampton; 621-7000
seasidegrill.bm
Diner: Island Cuisine
No stranger to wins in this category over the years, family-friendly Island Cuisine has a “cult following” that keeps us coming back for more. In classic diner fashion, hungry patrons can stop by to indulge in breakfast favourites all day long or opt for a lunchtime specialty like their fish sandwich, codfish cakes, famous jumbo combo salad or a bacon cheeseburger. No matter your hankering, this west end staple is sure to satisfy.
235 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-3287; islandcuisine.bm
Salad Bar: WildGreens
Winning over the public and the judges, WildGreens has quickly become Front Street’s most craveable lunchtime destination. The judges applaud owner and chef Derek Meyers’s level of “pride” and “attention to detail,” dedicated to sourcing fresh, local and organic ingredients for salad lovers. Customers flock to WildGreens in the lunchtime rush hour; with “so many delicious, super-fresh greens, toppings and dressings to choose from,” writes one happy customer, there’s “a little something for everyone’s salad tastes!”
17 Front Street, Hamilton; 261-8383; @wildgreensbermuda
Sushi: Pearl
Establishing a reputation for preparing the freshest fish on the island, Pearl is a unanimous favourite for a traditional Japanese sushi experience with a modern twist. Sit at the bar and watch the magic happen or take a seat on their outdoor patio overlooking Hamilton Harbour while you savour signature sashimi dishes like their Rockfish Usuzukuri or crowd-pleaser rolls like The Kotzu Pearl. “They deserve it,” the judges agree, accrediting the win to the chefs’ consistency and creativity and overall mastery of their craft.
87 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-9150; pearl.bm
Pizza: Clarabell’s
Nestled in Rosedon’s lush, lower garden, newcomer Clarabell’s swept the category, earning both the public and the judges vote of confidence. Fusing traditional Italian craft with flavours of the island, they promise their authentically wood-fired pizzas are “as rich in heritage as they are in taste.” “The entire experience is lovely,” one judge says, applauding everything from their perfectly chewy but crispy crust, personal pizza cutters and overall branding. If you’re craving an authentic taste of Italy, save on airfare and stop by Clarabell’s!
61 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 295-1640; clarabells.bm
Ethnic Cuisine: House of India
The people have spoken overwhelmingly in favour of House of India, duly timed to their 30th anniversary! Whether dining-in or taking away, this hotspot is no stranger to volume, meeting Bermuda’s insatiable demand for authentic Indian cuisine since 1995. “They give the people what they want,” a judge notes, commending House of India’s “quality of service” and “superior product” above all else.
58a North Street, Hamilton; 295-6450; houseofindia.biz
Fine Dining: The Waterlot
This year’s Award of Excellence winner, The Waterlot, also takes home the gold for raising Bermuda’s fine-dining standard. The judges agree that the reinvented Waterlot has “changed the game,” upping the ante in service, ambiance, wine selection and, of course, its food. Old-school Bermuda hospitality marries modern steakhouse sophistication to create an unparalleled dining experience on the island—one that leaves patrons planning their next visit while savouring the last morsels of dessert.
183 Middle Road, Southampton; 238-6136; thewaterlot.bm
Hotel Restaurant: Intrepid
It turns out you don’t have to leave Bermuda to indulge in an escape, and Intrepid is the public’s number one destination for an evening getaway. Housed in the Hamilton Princess’s Gazebo Wing, Intrepid allows guests to take in panoramic views of Hamilton Harbour over the course of the evening, ideally timed at sunset. Grab an aperitif (we recommend the Intrepid Martini) at a bar befitting 007 himself, before indulging in their signature raw bar and an impressive menu of contemporary twists on American grill from world class seafood to steak
Hamilton Princess, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, 298-2028; thehamiltonprincess.com
Kid-Friendly Restaurant: Flanagan’s
Offering a deal unlike any other, Flanagan’s “kids eat free” bargain scored them a win this year. For parents looking to save a buck, “it’s a really good deal,” the judges agree, adding that “they really care about the community.” You can sit back and enjoy a delicious meal (and perhaps a beer or two) a bit more worry-free, while the kids fill their bellies at no charge—sounds like a win-win (and now, a win for Flanagan’s!) to me.
69 Front Street, Hamilton; 295-8299; flanagans.bm
New Restaurant: Achilles
Taking the east end by storm, newcomer Achilles is bringing a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian cuisines to Bermuda’s culinary scene. “They were intentional about bringing something to the market we haven’t had in a long time,” commends one judge. Overlooking its namesake, Achilles Bay, Achilles invites diners to enjoy seaside views and neighbouring Fort St. Catherine while indulging in an eclectic menu of “MediterrAsian” dishes. “The food is great, the ambiance is nice, the service is good, and the views are incredible,” the judges agree, granting Achilles the total package.
33 Sea Venture Landing, St. George’s; 297-1717; achilles.bm
Private Dining Room: Intrepid
Seeking a bit of privacy to entertain clients or celebrate a milestone in a more intimate setting? Intrepid’s private dining room is the perfect secluded spot to dine in style, slightly removed from the bustling front room. Our judges love this “upscale place” to enjoy a private dinner, “designed for what it is,” checking boxes for ambiance, views and decor. Modern art lovers will particularly appreciate the space, with its impressive collection of art adorning the walls, namely KAWS’s The Great Below at the helm.
Hamilton Princess, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, 298-2028; thehamiltonprincess.com
Sunday Brunch: Grotto Bay
Newly renovated and revamped with an open plan and floor-to-ceiling windows, Grotto Bay’s reimagined Hibiscus room offers brunchers a “nice, bright and airy” start to the day. Their traditional breakfast buffet offers an extensive menu of crowd-favourite classics, including a Chef’s Station whipping up made-to-order eggs, fresh omelets and waffles. “They’ve upped the ante on innovation and creativity,” the judges say, and given the people a totally “new dining experience.”
11 Blue Hole Hill, Hamilton Parish; 293-8333; grottobay.com
Out-of-Town Eatery (East): Wahoo’s Bistro & Patio
Just like support for our cricket teams, some allegiances must be split down the middle of the island, and Bermuda’s best out-of-town eatery is no exception. In the east, Wahoo’s was an “easy” winner for the judges. Catering to even the pickiest of eaters, Wahoo’s diverse menu has something for everyone. With fresh, local fish supplied daily, you can’t go wrong with any of their seafood options, and their award-winning fish chowder is not to be missed!
36 Water Street, St. George’s; 297 1307; wahoos.bm
Out-of-Town Eatery (West): Boundary Sports Bar & Grille
Deemed a “local favourite” by the judges, Boundary has become a west end staple to catch a game, sip on a cocktail and enjoy elevated bar food classics. Located above Turtle Hill Golf Club, Boundary serves as a 19th hole hotspot for golfers, but caters to a wide crowd, offering, the judges agree, a “communal vibe,” “amazing food” and “good ambiance.” Be sure to catch one of their themed nights, too, like Jerk Fridays or Sunday Fundays, featuring a local DJ!
101 South Road, Southampton; 239-6966, boundary.bm
Al Fresco Dining: Déjà View
The public and judges passionately agree that the team behind Déjà View has created an “amazing” al fresco dining experience overlooking Hamilton Harbour. Excelling in more ways than one, from their blend of indoor/outdoor space and “excellent menu” of Asian-inspired dishes to punchy cocktails and popular Friday night happy hours, Déjà View is bringing a vivacious new energy to Barr’s Bay Park year-round.
17 Point Pleasant Road, Hamilton; 261-7354; dejaviewbermuda.com
Cake Maker: Sugar Rush Cakes
Owner and decorator Georgina Ball-Roach is the gifted baker and cake stylist behind Sugar Rush, creating exquisitely designed cakes that taste just as good as they look. Whether your special occasion calls for florals, bold colours or elegant minimalism, there’s not much Georgina can’t create with fondant, icing and a piping bag. Check out @sugarrushcakes on Instagram for inspo and contact sugarrushbda@yahoo.com to bring your vision to life for an upcoming wedding, celebration or birthday!
Local Fish/Fisherman: Teko Ingham, Ingham Fisheries
A first time win for Ingham, the public agrees that Teko Ingham of Ingham Fisheries is worthy of the Best of Bermuda title, receiving an overwhelming majority of votes for his prowess as a commercial fisherman. Keep an eye on their social media pages for daily catch updates, guaranteed “always fresh,” and head to Jew’s Bay to secure a whole fish or fillets of Bermuda’s freshest ocean bounty, as available, from Teko.
@ingham.fisheries
Local Produce: Windybank Farm
Family-run and operated for over three generations, Windybank Farm is trusted by Bermudians with providing the best seasonal produce at unbeatable prices—from locally grown fruit to flowers, herbs, vegetables and eggs. Order ahead online, and your produce will be ready for pick-up on Friday, or pop by their walk-in market on Saturday mornings, open from 6:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to peruse the fresh harvests for yourself.
#3 Windybank, Middle Road, Smith’s; 295-7199; windybankfarmbermuda.com
Butcher: Miles Market
Looking for perfectly sliced deli cuts or precisely portioned cuts of your favourite meats? There’s nowhere better to go, our voting public agrees, than the butcher’s counter at Miles Market. Helmed by head butcher Russell Sedgwick, this year’s award celebrates the entire team for their tireless, unparalleled service and dedication to satisfying customer after loyal customer.
96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke; 295-1234; miles.bm
Chef: Kijuanna Johnson, Sense 441
The public voted in favour of the team behind Bermuda’s first-ever blindfolded culinary experience, Sense 441. Designed to open your mind and senses, these bespoke, small dining events are more akin to a culinary performance, offering multiple courses of “unique,” “gastronomic” dishes to embolden the taste buds. “People rave about it,” the judges say, praising this “whole new experience” and epicurean journey Sense 441 has brought to the island.
sensebda.com
Friendliest Waitstaff: Harbourfront
Prepare to be dutifully taken care of from start to finish when dining at Harbourfront, Bermuda’s crown jewel of friendly service. The doting waitstaff are “crazy attentive,” one judge notes, eager to offer wine pairings and personal favourites and ensure patrons are receiving a top-tier experience parallel to the restaurant’s esteemed reputation.
BUEI, 40 Crow Lane, Pembroke; 295-4207; harbourfront.bm
Creative Cocktails: Evolve
Opening its doors last year, Evolve won over the popular vote with its “playful,” “novelty” and out-of-the box cocktails. Find this speakeasy lounge tucked away in the heart of Hamilton, bringing a long-awaited whimsy to Bermuda’s bar scene. This hidden gem is captivating by design, whipping up funky cocktails in unexpected glassware meant to be marveled at—each vessel more astounding than the last. With trivia nights and live music as well, an evening spent at Evolve is anything but boring.
2nd Floor, Bermudiana Arcade, 27 Queen Street, Hamilton; evolvebda.myshopify.com
Place to Watch Televised Sports: Boundary Sports Bar & Grille
A unanimous winner with the public and judges, Boundary is every sports fanatic’s favourite spot to catch a game. Whether enjoying an ice-cold beer at the bar or dining in the lounge, fans in the spacious, open format are provided with a 360-degree view of their favourite rivalries—from Premier League football to NFL, NHL and golf—from any seat in the house!
101 South Road, Southampton; 239-6966, boundary.bm
Wine/Liquor Sales: The Tasting Room
Since opening its doors in 2021, the Tasting Room offers patrons a uniquely interactive sampling and sales experience—setting itself apart from the competition. “The experience is really innovative,” one judge notes, admiring the unique wine-tasting taps, multiple points of sale, and highly knowledgeable staff primed to help you make the perfect purchase. Beyond just wine & spirits, The Tasting Room is also known to play host to killer private events—from corporate get-togethers to birthday parties and beyond.
#8A South Road, Smith’s; 292-7666; thetastingroom.bm
Pick-Up Bar: Front Yard
Looking for a lively spot to mix and mingle? For a few years running, the public and judges have reached a consensus that Front Yard is the pick-up bar on-island. The large outdoor venue and open-air bar format attracts big crowds—especially during peak summer months—curating the perfect setting to strike up a conversation and meet someone new, locals and visitors alike.
77 Front Street, Hamilton
Bermuda-Made Food: Glam Pop
Proudly made in Bermuda, tasty Glam Pop popcorn is lick-your-fingers good, so you needn’t let a single crumb of that yeasty-goodness go to waste. You can shop single or gallon bags of their signature 100-percent real flavours, like classic Sea Salt, Yeast and Yeast Sugar, online or at retailers islandwide. Overseas and craving a taste of home? Glam Pop now ships worldwide!
glampop-bda.com; @glampopbda
Bermuda-Made Booze: Moongate Brewing Co.
“The whole place they’ve created is spectacular,” one judge says, singing praises for the buzz that Moongate has brought to a sleepy St. George’s homebase. Brewed onsite, Moongate’s handcrafted beers are inspired by local flavours, like their newly released Dorothy’s Black & White Milkshake (IYKYK) 8-percent Nitro Pastry Stout. Whether in their taproom or outside in the beer garden, Moongate has quickly become a sought-out destination to try new brews, socialise and enjoy a little friendly competition in foosball, pool or darts!
19 Penno’s Wharf, St. George’s; 747-8733; @moongatebrew
Codfish Breakfast: Kenny’s Homestyle Bakery & Catering
For those looking for a traditional, old-school codfish breakfast, Kenny’s is the be-all and end-all. “His codfish is flaky and creamy,” vows one judge. “It’s unbelievable,” another chimes in, earmarking praise for Kenny’s famous cornbread. At Kenny’s, the early bird gets the metaphorical worm (aka codfish breakfast), so make sure to get there before 10:00 a.m., the judges advise, as he’s guaranteed to sell out every Sunday.
Bermuda Ex-Artillery, #72 Victoria Street, Hamilton; kennyscatering.com
Fish Chowder: Lobster Pot
With over 45 years in the business, Lobster Pot is a local favourite for seafood—notably, their Famous Fish Chowder. A house specialty, enhanced with black rum and sherry peppers, this “outstanding” dish that “lives up to its name,” according to satisfied customers, is sought out by locals and tourists alike. Coupled with reasonable prices (by local standards), friendly service and efficient staff, Lobster Pot continues to stand its ground amidst Bermuda’s evolving dining scene.
6 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton; 292-6898; @lobsterpotboathousebar
Fish Sandwich: Seaside Grill
Seaside Grill walks away with a win for their beloved fish sandwich (a highly contentious category with the public!) securing a majority of the popular vote. Working in tandem with sister company T.S. Fisheries to bring you the freshest fish, Seaside Grill allows patrons to pair the daily catch with a choice of white, wheat or raisin bread, customisable toppings and condiments, guaranteeing an unbeatable end product.
81 North Shore Road, Devonshire; 292-1241
121 Horseshoe Road, Southampton; 621-7000
seasidegrill.bm
Drunk Food: Ice Queen
There are few places on the island that stay open past 11:00 p.m., and Ice Queen is every drunk person’s most loyal companion, serving up “greaze” until the wee hours of the morning. Whether you’re hankering for a classic cheeseburger & fries, chicken tenders or their signature wahoo nuggets, Ice Queen has affordable, delicious bites for a quick late-night snack to help soak up the booze.
130 South Road, Paget; 236-3136
Baked Goods: Ahmani’s Cookie Company
Charting its humble grassroots beginnings back to February 2019, Ahmani’s Cookies have grown to reach almost every corner of Bermuda, available in grocery stores and gas stations islandwide. “His product is first class,” commends one judge, while another adds that “people just love his baked goods.” When you’re looking for a sweet treat, there are truly no better confections to fill up your cookie jar. And what’s more, he’s recently expanded to cheesecakes, too!
ahmaniscookiecompany.com
Ice Cream: Leslie’s Desserts
You can find Leslie’s unmissable chrome Airstream stationed in Victoria Park, often trailed with a queue of eager customers fancying a sweet treat. Their “creative” approach to ice cream, offering up rich, thick and creamy Italian gelato, scooped into fluffy Belgian waffles, bubble waffles or crepes, has earned them the Best of Bermuda win this year. Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth in a hurry? You can order online for pickup or delivery!
Victoria Park, Park Road, Hamilton; 737-1999; lesliesbermuda.com
Afternoon Tea: Conservatory Bar & Lounge
Whether you are seated in one of their atrium alcoves or at a mosaic two-top overlooking Castle Harbour, the Conservatory is an idyllic spot to enjoy afternoon tea. The judges rave about the selection of savoury tea sandwiches, bite-sized sweets, and particularly, their scones with homemade clotted cream. Reserve your spot and prepare to enjoy a traditional English afternoon delight in the company of good friends or family—or solo.
60 Tucker’s Point Drive, Hamilton Parish; 238-4013; www.rosewoodhotels.com
Musical Theatre/Dramatic Production: Magic of the Musicals 2
Another enchanting feat from The Gilbert & Sullivan Society, Magic of the Musicals 2 won over our judges and theatregoers with its energetic, high-caliber journey through musical theatre history. The performance was a “dazzling celebration” of the most beloved on-stage moments, enlisting a talented cast of over sixty local actors to bring it to life. Keep an eye on tickets for their fall production as the G&S team bring Roald Dahl’s children’s classic Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to the stage!
Ticketed Party/Concert: BEERmuda
Bermuda Craft Brewing’s BEERmuda festival was a smashing success, providing the island’s hops-loving revelers with an unforgettable weekend of craft brews, tasty food, live entertainment, games, and even a mechanical bull to add to the controlled chaos. Eventgoers were taken on an international craft beer tasting journey, sampling a range of hoppy IPA’s, sours and stouts from around the world at this two-day beer and fun-filled extravaganza—soon to be a staple in Bermuda’s social calendar.
www.beermuda.com
Judges
Vehia Walker – Co-owner & instructor, BDA Pilates
Nishanthi Bailey – Events & sponsorship manager, Bermuda Chamber of Commerce
Dwayne Caines – Secretary and COO, The City of Hamilton
Asha Bicarie – Food blogger at @ashas_appetite, Senior underwriter, Allied World
