Best local restaurants and hidden gems
At 123 Car Rental, our service goes far beyond simply providing you with the perfect car for your holiday. As foodies, entrepreneurs, and globetrotters, our team has eaten its way around the world — from renowned fine-dining restaurants to cozy bars, street food stalls, and local restaurants.
Being true food lovers, we’ve tried nearly every restaurant on Bonaire and bring a wealth of firsthand experience to our recommendations. Since we consider ourselves part of the island’s broader hospitality industry, we love sharing our personal favorites with our guests.
To make your stay on Bonaire even more enjoyable and stress-free, we’ve created a list of our top local restaurants and hidden gems. It’s our way of helping you fully experience the island — one great meal at a time. We have even included Google Maps route guidance for the hard to find hidden gems!
Below we have a selection of the best local food locations for you;
Bobbejan’s BBQ
Satisfy your craving for mouthwatering barbecue at Bobbejan’s BBQ, a true local restaurant favorite known for its tender marinated meats and delicious sauces. Grab a flavorful meal and soak up the island atmosphere — you can already smell it from far away when the grill is on! Takeaway only. (Open Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays). Check their Facebook page for more info!
Daily Catch
This hidden gem in the center of town is perfect if you’re craving freshly caught fish. The name says it all — they only serve what’s been caught that day. Choose from a wide variety of fresh fish, available as whole, filleted, or prepared into a delicious meal, salad, wrap, or sandwich. This is a place you absolutely don’t want to miss! (Closed on Sundays). Check here for fresh fish!
Kunuku Allee
This local restaurant also known as “Kushina di Ina” is a family-owned kunuku lunch spot where local food is served daily. Typical Bonairean dishes like papaya stoba, jambo, and pastechi are often on the menu. (Closed on Mondays). Check their menu here!
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO KUNUKU ALLEE
Maiky Snack
A true hidden gem for those looking for authentic local food. For many years, this place has been a favorite among people who love a hearty local dish. On the route to Lac Cai, you’ll find Maiky Snack — just follow the signs along the dirt road. Depending on availability, you can enjoy dishes like Sopi di Mondongo, Yorki stoba, Papaya stoba, Kabes di Higra, and much more! (Only open on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays)
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO MAIKY SNACK
Maya’s Corner
This cozy local restaurant in the heart of town serves fresh food daily. They offer sandwiches and soups, as well as delicious local lunches. Be quick — they sell out fast! But if that happens, Maya is so sweet she’ll always have a great alternative for you. Don’t miss the local desserts! (Closed on Saturdays). Checkout their menu here!
Mi Banana
This colorful local restaurant serves hearty meals with a smile — and a fried plantain on the side. We’re still not sure if the name comes from the plantain or its location across from the local strip club. Perhaps we’ll never know! But one thing’s certain — their food is delicious and much more affordable than their neighbors’ across the street. (Closed on Mondays). Find Mi Banana on Facebook
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO MI BANANA
Posada Para Mira
One of Bonaire’s most iconic local restaurants, Posada Para Mira is situated with a stunning view in Rincon, Bonaire’s oldest town. Known for its warm island hospitality, it offers a genuine taste of local cuisine, featuring dishes like stewed goat, fresh fish, and even iguana, accompanied by funchi (cornmeal) and fried plantain. The relaxed atmosphere and panoramic views make it a favorite among both locals and visitors. The restaurant is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible. (Closed on Tuesdays & Thursdays)
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO POSADA PARA MIRA
Irie
This hidden gem combines local dishes with a Jamaican twist. Irie means “nice” or “good” in Jamaican — and guess what, the food here is both! Jah man! (Closed on Mondays & Tuesdays)
Julian’s Café & Restaurant
A cozy local restaurant exuding a homely vibe, offering comfort with every cup and plate. Their menu features distinctive Latin American influences, excellent service, and budget-friendly prices — a place where every meal is both delightful and affordable. (Closed on Sundays). More on Facebook
Ling’s Kitchen
While mainly Asian, this local favorite is where many locals come to eat. The food is good, flavorful, and fairly priced — and you’ll find a few local dishes like conch on the menu. (Closed on Tuesdays)
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO LING’S KITCHEN
Pasa Bon Pizza
Although located in the center of Kralendijk it is still considered a hidden gem loved by locals — and not just for their pizza! Try the Lionfish pizza, a truly unique topping you won’t find anywhere else. (Closed on Mondays)
Rumba Café
This local restaurant sits right on the boulevard at the entrance of Harborside Mall. It’s a busy little spot with a great ambiance, perfect for watching the ocean, the sunset, and the lively boulevard scene. Well known for its delicious pizzas. (Closed on Sundays)
Saus’é
A true hidden gem in the center of town. This excellent street-food spot offers Caribbean flavors with a creative twist. Let them “sauce it” for you by choosing from a wide variety of fantastic homemade sauces! Their Saus’é burger tastes almost like a McDonald’s burger — and we mean that in the best possible way. (Closed on Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays). Check their menu here!
Seaside Krioyo Fusion
A stylish local restaurant on the seaside of Isidel Beach Park. “Krioyo” means something of local or native origin, and this restaurant perfectly blends Bonaire’s traditional flavors with modern fusion cuisine. (Closed on Mondays)
Social Café
This local restaurant is a popular gathering place among Bonaireans who come here for their delicious local dishes such as Higra, Snijbonchi, or Rabu Stoba. The prices are very attractive as well. (Closed on Mondays)
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO SOCIAL CAFE
Eddy’s
A family-friendly restaurant offering plenty of options for couples, families, kids, and larger groups. (Closed on Sundays). Discover more on their website
The View
A local restaurant where great food meets spectacular scenery. As the name suggests, you’re here not only for the food but also for the stunning ocean views. (Closed on Thursdays)
Yhanni’s Arepas
This local restaurant serves Venezuelan-style cuisine that Bonaire locals love. Sometimes they host themed nights with buffets or live music too. (Closed on Saturdays). Check their Facebook for more info
CLICK HERE FOR ROUTE GUIDANCE TO YHANNI’S AREPAS
Whether you’re visiting Bonaire for adventure, relaxation, or just to soak up the island’s easygoing charm, discovering its local restaurants and hidden gems is one of the best ways to connect with the true spirit of the island. From seaside barbecues and family-run eateries to small cafés tucked away in town, every spot tells a story through its flavors. So grab your keys, hit the road, and let 123 Car Rental guide you to the most authentic tastes of Bonaire — because great food and great journeys always go hand in hand.
Want to discover even more great dining spots? Check out our Top 25 Restaurants for 2025 for the latest must-try places on Bonaire. And if you’re ready to explore them all at your own pace, rent a car with 123 Car Rental — your key to uncovering every delicious corner of the island.