Award of Excellence: Marcus’
With a record-breaking five wins, Marcus’ at the Hamilton Princess and Beach Club was the unquestionable winner for this year’s Award of Excellence. From the minute you arrive to the time you leave, this outstanding restaurant, helmed by world-renowned chef Marcus Samuelsson, provides its diners with excellent service, outstanding food, delicious drinks, striking décor and breath-taking views.

 

 

Since opening in July 2016, Marcus’ has built up a loyal following of locals, international businesspeople and discerning tourists—a difficult balance to strike, but one which it has achieved with aplomb, thanks to its impressive setting, fresh, interesting and appetising menu and the ingenuity not just of Samuelsson himself, but also award-winning executive chef, Danai Hongwanishkul.

Large or small celebrations, business dinners, groups of family or friends hanging out or a romantic dinner for two. Whatever the occasion, Marcus’ will rise to it and ensure you receive only the very best of everything while you are a guest.

 

Cup of Java: Brew
Since storming onto Front Street in late 2018, Brew has been jam-packed with happy customers enjoying the best caffeine fix in town. Delicious espressos, lattes and mochas as well as the more adventurous “London Fog” or “Dirty Chai” make this the perfect spot to enjoy your pick-me-up with friends, clients or just your laptop. 53 Front Street, Hamilton, 542-2739

 

Breakfast: Bouchêe
The walls of Bouchêe Bistro Français must be groaning with the weight of all the Best of Bermuda awards they have won, but yet again say our judges, there is nowhere better for breakfast in Bermuda. Fresh and delicious, we can’t get enough of their outstanding omelette variety, mouth-watering crêpes, loaded Belgian waffles or “The Big English,” all with side orders of just about anything you can think of. Want to make it a particularly special occasion? Try one of their Morning Pick Me Up cocktails. 75 Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke, 295-5759

 

Favourite Pub: Astwood Arms
Sunday roast, Cumberland sausages, “fish n chips,” curry, pies, burgers and even sticky toffee pudding. The Astwood Arms offers up all the delicious grub you’d expect from your favourite British-style pub, served with a smile by friendly and fun waitstaff. You can catch live matches on television in the back, and the authentic ales, craft beers, tasty wines and creative cocktails risk turning a “quick pint” into an all-night party. 85 Front Street, Hamilton, 292 5818 

 

Place for a Power Lunch: Harry’s
If you want to impress your colleagues and clients over lunch, the setting needs to be stylish, service impeccable, menu impressive and wine list sophisticated. You also need a setting where your table can hear you, but the other tables can’t. During the working week, the lunchtime sitting at Harry’s Restaurant and Bar in the Waterfront Complex is heaving with “suits” enjoying fresh, delicious dishes, while lunching with purpose. And if you want to celebrate a business success, the bar has everything you could possibly need. 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 292-5533

 

Hamburger: DeGraff’s
This is a tough category as there are a lot of places in Bermuda to get a great hamburger, but DeGraff’s Lunch Wagon, a stalwart of City Hall car park, stands alone above all its competitors as the creators of the best hamburger on the island. This Bermudian institution has been serving up no-nonsense deliciousness since 1939, and if their ongoing popularity is anything to go by, hopefully for many, many more years to come. City Hall Car Park, Hamilton, 292-6130

 

Great Sandwich: Hickory Stick
Notorious for their generous sizes, with fillings spilling out, Hickory Stick in Clarendon House is a particularly firm favourite with the busy, eating-on-the-go, lunchtime business crowd making them hands-down favourites for best sandwich in Bermuda year after year. The friendly staff know their regulars’ favourites before they’ve even had to ask for them, and your sandwich, role, baguette or bun with any number of tasty filling options will keep you going for the rest of the afternoon. Fish cake on a raisin bun and hot pastrami on rye come particularly highly recommended. Clarendon House, 2 Church Street, Hamilton, 292-1781

 

Food Truck: Generosa’s
Hidden away at Bermuda Golf Academy in Southampton, happy customers are falling over themselves in praise of the delicious Portuguese cuisine served up by Generosa’s food truck. “We loved the Mozambique shrimp, the chorizo burger and the octopus stew,” says one. “Had an amazing, generously sized meal of shrimp, seasoned rice, nice salad and a roll,” applauds another. “Great value for money combined with super friendly service,” is a common cry. Their codfish breakfast, fish sandwich, wahoo and tomato rice also come highly recommended and unlike most food trucks, you can enjoy comfortable seating on their covered patio. 12 Industrial Park Road, Southampton, 238-8580

 

 

Lunch on the Go: Miles Market
A regular Best of Bermuda winner for their consistently delicious ready-to-eat options, Miles Market maintains its lead as the place to go to pick up a quick lunch while on the move or to enjoy “al desko.” The variety is unrivalled—hot meals, salads, soups, sandwiches, pizzas, quiches, sushi, smoothies and endless sweet treat options. They also cater for special dietary requirements and have recently teamed up with Natural Nutrition Bermuda to offer Nutrifit-to-Go ready meals. 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 295-1234

 

Diner: Paraquet
Delicious comfort food, traditional Bermudian dishes, family friendly, great staff and reasonable prices are just some of the reasons why the Paraquet Restaurant is the best diner in Bermuda. There is lots of free parking and they have something for everyone, three meals a day. Salads, milkshakes, burgers, codfish breakfast, sandwiches and lots of choice for the kids too. “Yummy fish cakes and buns,” “the fries were fresh and crispy and obviously cooked in fresh oil,” and “my kids have declared Paraquet ‘best Bermuda breakfast’” are just some of the great reviews from happy customers. 68 South Shore Road, Paget, 236-9742

 

Salad: Devil’s Isle & Harry’s
Too delicious to call, we have a dead heat for the best salad in Bermuda.

Devil’s Isle: A regular winner in this category for taking the humble, healthy, still feel a bit hungry afterwards, salad to a whole new, healthy, filling and delicious level with their unique bowls and famous kale Caesar. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, on a keto or paleo diet, or none of the above, there is a tasty and satisfying salad option for you. 19 Burnaby Street, Hamilton, 292-3284

 

 

Harry’s: More formal and traditional, Harry’s has taken time-honoured classics and made them filling as a main, a light side or a refreshing starter. Their Singapore Tuna Bowl and Petite Iceberg with blue cheese dressing and smoked bacon are always popular, but you can’t go wrong with their Caesar or tomato salads either. 96 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 292-5533

 

Salad Bar: Café 4
Another win for the unrivalled create-your-own-salad bar at Café 4 in the Washington Mall. What they don’t offer for your salad isn’t worth having—four different types of lettuce, 39 topping options and 10 dressings varieties, made fresh in-house, including the detox dressing, raspberry chia dressing and oil-free creamy avocado. Meat, grains, seeds, veggies, cheese or fruit, pile it high, decorate accordingly, flavour to your heart’s content and enjoy! Windsor Place, 18 Queen Street, Hamilton, 295-8444

 

Sushi: Misaki
Customers can’t get enough of the delicious sushi, great “pick n’ mix” menu, tasty specials and fantastic staff at Misaki Sushi Restaurant. Their approach makes it “easy for indecisive folks like me,” says one happy customer; their “bowls are scrumptious”, raves another; and their sushi platters are culinary works of art. Co-owned by Leo Calingasan, who is also head chef, and Greg de Melo, Misaki opened in 2017 and has raised the very high bar for sushi standards in Bermuda even higher. 5 Burnaby Street, Hamilton, 296-7254

 

Pizza: J&B’s Wood Fired Pizza
Founded three years ago, this is already the second win for J&B’s Wood Fired Pizza. Their oven is a “hybrid of ancient tradition and modern marvel” because it is mobile, allowing them to travel throughout Bermuda serving the best pizza on the island wherever they go. Their menu includes “meat lovers,” “works,” “veg delight” and “build your own” and they deliver islandwide through the Sargasso Sea App. Customers can’t get enough of their fresh, tasty ingredients and speedy, friendly service. www.jbwoodfiredpizza.com, 707-4492

 

Place for Veggie Lovers: Village Pantry
As more of us try to cut down on our meat consumption and increase our vegetable intake, Village Pantry makes this diet choice easy, delicious and filling. Instead of a few token vegetarian dishes on the menu, you are spoilt for choice with options including the Avocado Crush, Wholesome Bowl, Veggie Korma Curry and Vegetarian Pizza. Instead of boring, only- endured-at-Christmas Brussels sprouts, you can enjoy delicious Balsamic Brussels Sprouts. Move over beef carpaccio, there’s a Quinoa and Roasted Beet Salad appetiser in town! 8 North Shore Road, Flatts Village, 478 2300

 

Ethnic Cuisine: Jamaican Grill
If you’re craving jerk chicken, curry chicken, lamb chops, beef patties, oxtail or perhaps a goat curry, this Court Street icon is the place to go for “authentic” Jamaican food. “Rice and peas were fantastic, the oxtail and gravy were rich, soft and succulent and the portions were huge,” raves one happy customer; “good food, with good portions at decent prices,” says another. Not only, say the judges, does the Jamaican Grill serve the best ethnic cuisine in Bermuda, but their customers insist the service is “awesome” and “super friendly.” 32 Court Street, Hamilton, 296-6577

 

Fine Dining: Waterlot
There’s a major problem with the Waterlot Inn. How do you dress up to look your best, but also wear a stretchy waistline to accommodate the outstanding steaks, seafood, heavenly sides and sumptuous desserts all to be washed down with award winning wines? Nestled down on Jews Bay in Southampton, the Waterlot Inn takes you into another world. Summer evenings can be spent sipping cocktails on the dock while watching the sunset or you can enjoy the epitome of dining at its finest while taking in the historical charm of the main restaurant or wine cellar. Middle Road, Southampton, 238-8000

 

 

Ambience: Blû
Boasting some of the most spectacular views on the island, you can’t beat Blû Bar & Grill at Belmont Hills Golf Course for atmosphere. When the weather allows, you can sit outside and admire scenery stretching across the Great Sound to Dockyard and around to Hamilton Harbour, and the floor-to-ceiling windows mean you don’t lose out even when the weather isn’t cooperating. The restaurant is open-plan, light and airy, with an attractive and generously stocked bar at the centre. Enjoy steaks, pastas, Asian dishes or something from their extensive sushi menu. 25 Belmont Drive, Middle Road, Warwick, 232-2323

 

Hotel Restaurant: Marcus’
The combination of business guests, discerning holiday-makers and Bermudian clientele is a difficult culinary expectation to meet, but Marcus’ at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club has found the perfect mix of remarkable surroundings, delicious local and international dishes and an impressive drink selection served from the dazzling central bar area. Relax and take in the views from the outside deck, soak up the buzzing ambiance inside or appreciate a discreet meal away from prying eyes, while enjoying classic or unusual flavours including Fish Chowder Bites, Smoked Pork Belly Steam Buns, Seafood Bermuda Triangle or The Beyond Burger. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 296-4058

 

Sunday Brunch: Marcus’
With a third win in as many years under their chefs’ hats, the Sunday brunch at Marcus’ is now firmly established as the best on the island. A visually stunning setting whether you choose to sit inside or out, it has everything you’d expect from a delicious brunch buffet—and lots of things you wouldn’t, including a taco station. If you opt for the champagne option, pre-book your taxi as you won’t be short-changed. “Marcus’ is the best by far, unless you like boring food,” says a contented diner of their brunch. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 296-4058

 

Kid-Friendly Restaurant: La Trattoria
A regular winner in this category, La Trattoria has once again been voted the number-one option for enjoying a meal out while also feeding your entire brood. From the crayons and pictures when you arrive and the great variety of children’s options on the menu to the fun of watching the pizza oven in action and the amazing staff who never seem to mind how often the cutlery goes flying, “The Tratt” is the best restaurant on the island for feeding the whole family, and their friends too. 23 Washington Lane, Hamilton, 295-1877

 

Private Dining Room: Marcus’
Whatever your special occasion, you are guaranteed to impress your guests by booking it in the private dining room at Marcus’. Out-of-towners can’t fail to be awed by the stunning view that greets them as they walk in, and even Bermudians never tire of looking out over the water at their beautiful island as they enjoy delicious food or drink. The layout makes it perfect for both large and smaller gatherings and if you run out of things to say, you can ask your fellow guests what they think of the impressive artwork on the walls. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 296-4058

 

Out-of-Town Eatery: Rustico
When you want delicious, fresh, Italian food, but don’t want to go into town… or just want delicious, fresh, Italian food, there is only one place to go, say our judges—Rustico in Flatts Village. The staff are friendly and helpful, their thin-crust pizzas are exceptional, the décor is stylish, and in the warmer months, the outdoor deck is a wonderful place to eat, drink and watch the world go gently by. There is also lots of parking. “Excellent service, food cooked to perfection, great atmosphere,” reports one happy diner; “I highly recommend the bruschetta, it was amazing,” says another. 36 North Shore Road, Flatts Village, 295-5212

 

Al Fresco Dining: Breezes
A regular winner in this category, beach-front restaurant Breezes at Cambridge Beaches is still the best place on the island to enjoy lunch or dinner while admiring the Long Bay beach and ocean views, and soaking up the sounds and smells of summer. Diners rave not just about the setting, but also the excellent service and “speciality drinks.” The fish sandwiches are “fresh,” fish chowder “amazing,” desserts “particularly delicious,” and “the fresh Mahi Mahi was the best grilled fish I have had in a long time.” Cambridge Beaches Resort, 30 King’s Point Road, Somerset Village, 234-0331

 

Tasty Takeout (Dinner): House of India
The original, the one, the only place for the best Indian takeout in Bermuda is, once again, House of India. Whether it’s a quiet Saturday night in for two or a huge party for everyone in your address book, the food from House of India will be hot (in more ways than one, but where possible they will happily adjust the heat content), tasty and authentic. Onion bhajiya, dal tadka, samosa, huge naans, biryanis, baltis, rogan josh, korma, tandoori, tikka—the list is endless and making me hungry. 58A North Street, Hamilton, 295-6450

 

Cake Maker: Tuck Shop
There was no debate among our judges about this category, the Tuck Shop in Southampton has taken baked goods quality in Bermuda to the next level. Founded in 2018 by Alicia Tucker who, already famous for her chocolate cake, is now famous for a mouth-watering variety of them, has become the go-to person for special occasions. She will also cater to dietary requirements including vegan and gluten-free. Whether you want cupcakes or novelty cakes for both children and adults, or something more traditional, they “are made to perfection,” and are “absolutely divine,” say her happy customers. 235 Middle Road, Southampton, 238-8825

 

Seafood Restaurant: Lobster Pot
Seafood is a tough category to stand out in, but for over 40 years, this Bermudiana Road institution has set the standard for others to follow. The lobster is, obviously, amazing, but the king crab legs are also not to be sniffed at, and whatever the fisherman drops in that day, be it rockfish, tuna, snapper, red hind, bonita or wahoo will be prepared to perfection. Their children’s menu, which includes shrimp and chips or something non-fishy if they prefer, means you can make the catch of the day a family affair.  6 Bermudiana Road, Hamilton, 292-6898

 

Local Fish/Fisherman: M Soares & Sons
The second win in a row for this local fish haven in Spanish Point, M Soares & Sons continues to not just provide the best freshly caught fish on the island, but they can do amazing things with that fish too. Fancy something a bit different? How about a freshly made wahoo or rockfish burger? Sausages more your thing? They don’t just come in pork, but rockfish too. Check out @soaresgrocery to see the tantalising pictures of what you could have on your plate by dinnertime. 26 Spanish Point Road, Pembroke, 292-1426

 

Local Produce: Bermyfresh
We are told that to help save our planet we must reduce our reliance on imported food, grown with the aid of pesticides or herbicides, and instead buy as much home-produced fare as possible. Thank goodness then for the delicious, nutritious products of Bermyfresh, which sells its own micro greens, lettuces, basil, sprouts, shoots, shiitake mushrooms, and home-grown, homemade pesto, and that’s not everything. Did you spot a rainbow in the hummus section? That will the amazing variety of hummus flavours they also have available, which include “Butt Naked,” “Roasted Garlic” and “Peace Za.” 15 Wellbottom Road, Southampton, 236-3400

 

Butcher: Supermart
Not just well-stocked with delicious cuts of poultry, pork, lamb or beef for those who want to cook up a storm from scratch, but the butchers at the Supermart on Front street will also help you cheat with their selection of homemade sausages, including flavours such as bacon-jalapeño or honey-sriracha, pre-prepared burgers, prepared lamb ready to be put straight into the oven, minced lamb grillsticks, chicken kebabs, pinwheels—the options are endless, the service is always with a smile and expert advice on quantities and cooking times is free if you need it. 125 Front Street, Hamilton, 292-2064

 

Chef: Danai Hongwanishkul at Marcus’
Chef Danai has only been in Bermuda for three years and this is already his second Best of Bermuda award. The executive chef de cuisine at Marcus’ took what was already a great menu to the next level. He is a man of the world and the international, yet unique flavours are testament to his experience. Coconut and carrot soup, chicken and waffles and a BBQ butternut squash and udon noodle bowl sit alongside local seafood dishes and lobster tacos. Customers rave not just about the delicious food, but the amazing service, which can only come from a well-managed kitchen. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 296-4058

 

Bartenders: The Birdcage
Staffed by Bermudians, this rooftop bar on Front Street opened last summer and quickly made a name for itself as the best drinking view on the island. Stefan Gitschner, of Twisted Spoon fame, describes his bartenders as more like “bar chefs” because they approach each unique, craft cocktail as if they are cooking and they combine this skill with fun, friendly service. Many of the mixes have a Bermudian flavour to them, such as banana liqueur, gold loquat liqueur, citrus bitters, wild fennel, hibiscus, and of course, Gosling’s rum. 6 Front Street, Hamilton, 704-7413

 

Friendliest Waitstaff: Marcus’
Nothing is too much trouble for the army of staff whose job it is to ensure the very best dining experience when you go to Marcus’. Not sure what to have? They will expertly and patiently talk you through the menu. Special dietary requirements? Not a problem. Need advice on wines? They have something delicious to suit every palate and price point. Drink at the bar first? The setup alone is a work of art and so are the liquid creations. Need a top-up? Oh, it’s already been done. “Meticulous Bermudian service,” say the happy diners. Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, 76 Pitt’s Bay Road, Pembroke, 296-4058

 

Creative Cocktails: Yours Truly
Any establishment that has an unmarked door and a buzzer to get in is already setting its clientele up for a good night out, and they are never disappointed. For the second year in a row, this alleyway speakeasy has won an award for serving up the most creative cocktails in Bermuda. Their menu is unsurpassed and if you are the designated driver for the night, or just “on the wagon,” then their selection of creative “mocktails” means you don’t have to miss out. Want to go “off-piste”? Just ask the talented bar staff to whip you up something different. 2 Chancery Lane, Hamilton, 295-0429

 

Place for a Glass of Wine: Port O Call
With an extensive selection of fizz, red, white and pink, the wine menu at Port O Call has something to satisfy the most discerning connoisseurs, the “haven’t got a clue about wine, but need to relax after work,” and everyone in between. There’s even a section entitled Interesting Whites for those who want something more unusual. This Front Street bar and restaurant will serve it at the perfect temperature and you can enjoy it on their patio while watching the world go by or with a delicious meal inside. 87 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-5373

 

Place to Watch Televised Sports: Flanagan’s Outback Sports Bar
Large enough for big, excited groups? Tick. Fast flowing drinks? Tick. No distractions like windows? Tick. Enough screens so everyone can watch the game no matter where they are sitting? Tick. Excellent food? Tick. Great atmosphere? Tick. A regular winner in this category, Outback Sports Bar at Flanagan’s quite literally ticks all the boxes for a top-notch sports-watching venue and during the commercial breaks you can sit back and admire the sporting décor until the game comes back on. Emporium Building, 69 Front Street, Hamilton, 295-8299

 

Best Dramatic Production: Mamma Mia
For ten days during October 2019, Bermuda’s theatre-goers were treated to the energy and musical magic of the Gilbert & Sullivan Society’s production of Mamma Mia. Starring Emma Muggleton as Donna, Paige Hallett as Sophie and Keiran Hamilton as Sky, the judges were unanimous—Mamma Mia was the best dramatic production of 2019. “Beautifully performed,” “the choreography was outstanding,” and “a great source for full-bellied laughter,” said Lisa Sheppard in the Royal Gazette. “Absolutely hilarious. Love it,” agreed a happy theatre-goer.

 

Afterwork Hot Spot: Astwood Arms
A prime Front Street location with indoor and outdoor seating, the Astwood Arms, which has also been voted “best pub in Bermuda,” has won again for best afterwork hot spot. It has everything to suit the sort of day you may have had, from simple beer and wine to hard liquor and cocktails. Plenty of space for meeting up with lots of friends, small tables for a discreet chat, or a stool at the bar if you’re on your own. Turn a quick after-work drink into a relaxing night out with their delicious selection of “pub grub.” 85 Front Street, Hamilton, 292 5818

 

Wine/Liquor Sales: Gosling’s Ltd
Known for their world-famous Black Seal and Gold Seal, and winners of Best Rum of 2019 for their limited edition Papa Seal, Gosling’s is so much more than just a rum seller. Between their small Front Street premises, their warehouse store and head office on Dundonald Street, and their online shop you can get almost any liquor you can think of, the mixers to go with it and an astounding array of international wines. Follow Bermuda brand director Andrew Holmes on social media and you will be treated to recipes and master classes to perfect your at-home bartending skills. 9 Dundonald Street, Hamilton, 295-1123; 33 Front Street, Hamilton, 298-7337

 

Pick-up Bar: Dog House
As this is their third win in as many years, there is obviously nowhere better to go in Bermuda than the Dog House on Front Street to meet someone new and have a fun night out. They serve up huge cocktails, beer buckets, live music, great DJs and tasty bar food for late-night munchies. There are also outdoor tables for chatting in the fresh air, and a pool table and the occasional game of beer pong for some friendly competition. Their prime location means easy taxi rides home #whereweallendup. 93 Front Street, Hamilton, 232-3644

 

Musical Group: The Three Kings
Playing together since 2003, Jules, Aswad and Live Wires make up phenomenal reggae group The Three Kings. They do what they do for the love of the music and many of their performances are for charity. Jules and Aswad were previously part of band ITAL Foundation, which released a top-selling reggae album ITAL Foundation Vol. 1 in 1980. The beats and lyrics of their original songs such as “Reggae Highway” and “Bermuda Sunrise” take you to another world and your body can’t help but move with the rhythm. Their presence alone gives a magical vibe no matter the venue. arijahknow@gmail.com

 

Place to Party: The Birdcage
The newest rooftop venue in town boasts spectacular views across the harbour, stunning sundowner opportunities and exquisite cocktails served by award-winning bartenders, making it the place to party. In 2019, this “good vibes only” venue hosted Winter Acoustic Jams with live music from Derek & Rivah, an Old School Hip Hop night with DJ Rusty G, Friday Happy Hour with Mohawk Radio and “Vinyl Night” on Wednesdays, all of which included delicious drinks specials to get you in the mood. Watch this space—there’ll be more in 2020. 6 Front Street, Hamilton, 704-7413

 

Bermuda-made Food or Booze: Gosling’s Rum
Bermuda may be small, but we have given a lot to the world—the Triangle, shorts and Gosling’s rum. Not only is it the drink of choice at home, but Black Seal and Gold Seal rum can be found in drinking establishments around the world, and no island celebration is complete without a dark n’ stormy or rum swizzle. Rare bottles of Papa Seal rum won the coveted Best Rum of 2019 award from the Caribbean Journal’s Rum Journal and had devotees queueing from the early hours last December on the one day it was on sale. 9 Dundonald Street, Hamilton, 295-1123; 33 Front Street, Hamilton, 298-7337

 

Codfish Breakfast: Supermart
Bermudians have very strong opinions about this category, but the codfish breakfast at this grocery store buffet stands out among all its competitors. Freshly cooked and prepared everyday by the Supermart’s two breakfast chefs, customers can choose their portion size and combination. The fish is supplied by Karibuni and the quality is always consistent. It is served with all the trimming options and a choice of fresh tomato or onion sauce. Available Monday–Saturday, 7:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m., and all day on Sundays. 125 Front Street, Hamilton, 292-2064

 

Fish Chowder: Herbie Bascome at the Fairmont Southampton
A Bermudian legend, chef Herbie Bascome has shared his cooking talents with satisfied diners for over 50 years. He is famous for authentic Bermudian cuisine but of all the delicious dishes he is known for, his fish chowder has won out and been voted the best in Bermuda. It was served up at the City of Hamilton’s 2019 New Year’s Eve party and hotel guests have been known to pick out this dish as one of the highlights of their stay: “This is the first dish that I have when I arrive in Bermuda,” says one. “Amazingly good,” says another. Fairmont Southampton, 101 South Shore, Southampton, 238-8000

 

Fish Sandwich: Best in the West—Woody Sports Bar & Restaurant
Woody’s has such a huge fan base, it’s difficult to know which positive reviews to use to highlight why this West End institution is deserving of yet another Best of Bermuda award win for the superb quality of their fish sandwiches. “What better way to start the weekend than with one of these! A humungous wahoo fish sandwich from Woody’s,” raves one. “Fresh local fish cooked to perfection,” exclaims another, and “amazingly delicious” crops up a lot too! 1 Woody’s Drive, Somerset, 234-6526

 

Fish Sandwich: Best in the East—Seaside Grill
Customers can’t get enough of the wahoo or mahi-mahi sandwiches, piled high with everything delicious you’d expect on the best fish sandwich and freshly prepared at this delicious North Shore eatery. “Everything was fresh, hot and delicious,” they say. “Great food, excellent customer service and locally owned,” continues the praise. “Best fish sandwich I’ve had all year goes to Seaside Grill,” says another. Need your fish sandwich fix and can’t get through on the phone? You can order online at www.seasidegrill.bm. 81 North Shore Road, Devonshire, 292-1241

 

Social Media Presence: Village Pantry
With food photography so good, you can practically smell and taste it, the Facebook and Instagram pages of the Village Pantry in Flatts are littered with mouthwatering photographs from its delicious food and drink menu, colourful scenes from around the restaurant, and the latest information about their friendly staff and business. Lively and fun, as well as tantalising, the Village Pantry’s regular posts keep their followers engaged, give them wonderful ideas on how to quench their thirst and fill their bellies on their next visit, and even the occasional inspirational message just to cheer up their day. https://www.facebook.com/villagepantrybm/ and @village_pantry_bda

 

Food Delivery App: Sargasso Sea
It’s been less than two years since the Sargasso Sea delivery app burst onto the scene and there is absolutely no contest, once again, in this category. Expanding at a rapid rate, at the time of writing they were delivering food islandwide from over 40 restaurants as well as farm produce from The Harvest Market and Dill Pickle Farming. Already known for their efficient and friendly service, the Sargasso Sea app came into its own during the Covid-19 pandemic, when not only did demand increase, but so did the quality of their service. Sargassosea.app

 

Bang for Your Buck: Rotisserie Grill
A family-run restaurant based on the Boston Market concept of fresh and healthy food served fast and at a reasonable price, this stalwart of Collector’s Hill serves delicious meals at great prices, say our judges, and their customers agree. “The wahoo steaks were grilled to perfection and my usual sides of Spanish rice, spinach and carrots were delicious as always,” says one. “Excellent service and excellent food…more than I could eat…all for $44.65 for the two of us,” adds another. It’s official then—the Rotisserie Grill is the best Bang for your Buck in Bermuda. 8 South Road, Smith’s, 232-7444

 

Drunk Food: Ice Queen
If the definition of drunk food is fast, satisfying, delicious, alcohol-soaking sustenance you can buy easily no matter what time of night, then Ice Queen hits the nail on the head. This Paget eatery is open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m.–5:00 a.m. and the menu is brimming with tasty comfort food—burgers, chicken wings, fish on a bun, breaded shrimp, onion rings, pizza, fries, milkshakes, smoothies and ice cream, with all sorts of filling add-on options. There is no better place in Bermuda to end your big night out. 130 South Road, Paget, 236-3136

 

Baked Goods: Tuck Shop
Not satisfied with one Best of Bermuda award for the Tuck Shop, the judges decided owner Alicia Tucker generally makes the best baked goods on the island, period. Bread, cookies, cupcakes, pastries, macaroons and her latest delectable creation—Nanaimo bars! Everything looks beautiful, smells tempting and tastes fabulous, say her customers. “Every single item I got was absolutely delicious,” says one, after buying an iced cookie, a chocolate chip cookie, a slice of carrot cake and a pumpkin spice cupcake. “Their ginger cookies are divine” and “The Tuck Shop Rocks!” add others. 235 Middle Road, Southampton, 238-8825