Many tout the City of Hamilton as the home of all the best eateries in Bermuda, however, we’d argue that you will find authentic Bermudian cuisine and dining experiences in Somerset, where tourists and locals enjoy digging in.
Woody’s – Woody’s in Somerset village is one of the only restaurants on the island that you can arrive by boat. Long days on the water, salty and wind-blown, are best ended at this secluded spot. The food is surprisingly cheap for the quality and quantity of this Caribbean cooking. Enjoy a Dark and Stormy as you dive into their famous fish sandwiches. They even serve spiny lobster when it’s in season (Sept-March). There is lots of outside seating, making it a favourite for a casual dining experience in these strange COVID-19 times. 1 Boaz Island, Somerset Village, Bermuda, 234-6526
Misty’s Take-Out – Although this one-stop-shop has no sit in tables, this has not prevented Misty’s from becoming a sensation with locals. Serving burgers, breakfast sandwiches, and full fish dinners, Misty’s is the perfect place to get food for a socially distanced picnic or a quiet night in that won’t break the bank. 54 Somerset Road, Somerset Village, Bermuda, 234-2449
The Bridge Trading Post – What’s not to love about a slice of cake in an old post office? What if I told you that this post office was overlooking the smallest drawbridge in the world? As of 2018, the Somerset Bridge Post Office has transformed into a café with the motto ‘Where every good morning makes a good day.’ Be sure to get here early to enjoy breakfast bakes, cake creations such as Red Velvet, Chocolate Milkshake, and Cinnamon Roll Bread Pudding as the opening times are morning only from 7:30 am – 12:30 pm, and the specials change daily. 36 Middle Road, Somerset Bermuda, 234-2402.
Baxter’s Pies – On the way into Somerset Village, one can easily miss Baxter’s Pie shop. There is no street sign or indication of the delights it harbours. However, ask anyone around to direct you, and you will not be sorry. Bermudians come from every corner of the island for the flaky pastry and meat, mussel, fish, chicken, or vegetable pies. This hole-in-the-wall also serves more traditional burgers and fries, for those less pie-inclined. 41 Scott’s Hill Road, Sandys, Bermuda, 777-7027.
Bermuda Bubble Tea – The craze for boba tea originated in Taiwan during the 1980s, and the phenomenon has since grown worldwide for this effortlessly tasty combination of sweet tea and popping tapioca pearls. Thanks to Bermuda Bubble Tea, islanders did not have to wait long for the craze to reach our shores. On the menu you’ll find classic milk teas such as matcha and brown sugar, as well as freshly brewed ice teas. Plus, new renditions of flavours are constantly being created. If you can’t quite make the trek to Somerset (although we promise its worth it), find them at Harbour Nights every Wednesday in the summer. 19 Somerset Road, Sandys, MA 03, 735-5712
The Lonestar – When you’re craving a quick fix of local fish, there’s no better destination than The Lonestar, which won Best Food Truck in the 2022 Best of Bermuda awards. Here, all dishes are made to order with fresh seafood, ensuring quality and flavour. Alongside the all-important fish sandwich, standouts include rockfish bites, fried shrimp and grilled octopus. 66 Somerset Road, Sandys, MA 01, 505-5511
Trini Spice – This hole-in-the-wall joint tucked along the main road in Somerset Village is a small, unassuming yet hugely popular takeout spot thanks to its delicious Trinidadian cuisine. Everything is seriously tasty, although we’re partial to the rotis, which come with your choice of lamb, beef, chicken or vegetable fillings. 29, Mangrove Bay Road, Sandys, 261-2868
De Island Shack – No visit to Somerset would be complete without a detour to De Island Shack. This family-run café is authentically Bermudian in every way, from its colourful exterior to friendly customer service and locally inspired menu items. Energizing smoothies, crowd-pleasing sherbet shakes and lovingly made baked goods are just a few of their tempting creations on offer, which can be enjoyed in pure bliss on their outdoor patio. 56 Somerset Road, Sandys, MA 03, 777-7422
Il Pomodoro – New to Somerset’s booming culinary scene is an authentic Italian take-out restaurant and pizzeria. Whether you want to order a few pizzas for a night in with friends, stop in and grab lunch from their hot buffet, or stock your pantry with specialty Italian grocery items, Il Pomodoro has got you covered. 19 Somerset Road, Sandys, MA 03, 621-3663
De Shields Pop-up Bistro – For fine dining in Somerset, you can’t miss Cambridge Beaches’ newest luxurious eatery. De Shields Pop-up Bistro is the definition of old school Bermuda charm with stunning sunset views, where patrons dine al-fresco on a terrace overlooking the tranquil scenes of Mangrove Bay. The chef boasts of island cuisine inspired by Bermuda, where every dish has a story. 30 King’s Point Road, Somerset, Bermuda 234-0331.
