Aruba's traditional cuisine reflects the island's diverse cultural influences—Indigenous, Spanish, Dutch, and Caribbean flavors all come together in wonderfully unique dishes. The unofficial national dish is Keshi Yena, a hearty casserole of spiced chicken or beef baked inside or topped with melted Gouda or Edam cheese. It originated from enslaved people who would stuff discarded cheese rinds with leftover meat and vegetables—today it's evolved into a beloved comfort food served at restaurants across the island.
You can't leave without trying Pastechi, the island's favorite snack—crescent-shaped deep-fried pastries stuffed with cheese, chicken, beef, tuna, or vegetables. They're perfect for breakfast on the go, and you'll find them at bakeries, snack bars, and grocery stores everywhere. Other must-try dishes include Stobas (slow-cooked stews like goat or fish), Pan Bati (a slightly sweet flatbread served with meals), Funchi (polenta-like cornmeal), and fresh Caribbean seafood like mahi-mahi, grouper, and Caribbean lobster.
Seafood lovers should visit Zeerovers in Savaneta, where you can watch local fishermen bring in the catch and then order it grilled to perfection with sides of fries and plantains. For authentic Aruban home cooking, try Papiamento Restaurant or Taste My Aruba. Don't forget dessert—sample Bolo Preto (dark rum fruit cake), Quesillo (Caribbean flan), or Dutch treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes (mini pancakes). The food scene here beautifully blends international sophistication with homegrown Caribbean soul.