Martinique

Eating out in Martinique

Chefs trained in the traditional French school combined with the relaxed atmosphere of Caribbean islands create a memorable dining experience. Menus generally specialize in seafood, and Creole spices dress up every meal.

Gourmet

La Plantation Pays Mele features an innovative mix of the otherwise ubiquitous Creole spice and French gourmet traditions. The acclaimed chef is known for a flair that is unmatched on the island, creating such things as mousse with a sea-urchin sauce. An Asian-style dining room provides a soothing and serene atmosphere. Jeanne d'Arc section, Lamentin.

Highly Recommended

Delices de la Mer delivers exceptional casual dining and terrific views of Diamond Rock. The seafood entrees are delicious, and if you dine outside you may be accompanied by hummingbirds! Pointe des Salines, Ste Anne.

Local Flair

Le Ruisseau Restaurant sits in the shadow of the towering Mont Pelee. The 18th-century plantation inn that houses it retains its authenticity and the Creole food reflects the grace of the historical kitchen where it is created. Bourg, Basse-Pointe.

Romantic

La Villa Creole features two-person tables surrounding an exotic garden and the performing owner, who is a popular singer-songwriter, adds to the romantic ambiance. The food is superb with such originals as salade de poisson cru marine, a local version of sushi. Anse-Mitan, Les Trois-Ilets.

Going party in Martinique

There are many nightclubs and lively discos in Martinique, as well as a couple of casinos. Some of the best nighttime entertainment, however, is found in hotels and cultural centers.

Les Grands Ballets de Martinique

Musicians and dancers in traditional costume celebrate their rich culture.

Casino Bateliere Plaza

Whether you fancy the casual atmosphere of the slot machines or the high-rolling formal casino games, this place has it all. Glamour prevails from the exquisite dining room to the gaming hall, and dress is required to match. There is a dance floor that remains open until the casino closes at 3am.

Neptune

The most popular place for Zouk, which is a mix of Caribbean rhythm and Creole "electronica," this club is packed almost every day of the week.

Las Tapas

For sexy salsa and merengue, there is no better place than this popular bar.

Coco Loco

For a night of smooth jazz, Caribbean style, this smoky little place is the best on the island.

Common events in Martinique

Saint's Days

Every month, a different village honors its patron saint. Each village is unique in its celebration as it comes alive with games, shows, music, folk dancing, feasts, and other amusements. January-December.

Mardi Gras

A traditional French holiday, this celebration is an integral part of the island culture as well. The streets are filled with costumed revelers in joyful celebration of the last day of indulgence before the Lent fast. March.

Carnival

Four days of festivities take over this island, as businesses shut down and streets are filled with parties and parades. Dimanche Gras (or Fat Sunday) features bands set up in the streets accompanied by dancers and singers. March.

Martinique Food Show

Restaurants and chefs display their best creations with competitions and food tastings adding to the culinary celebration. April.

Le Mai de St Pierre

This month-long festival focuses on the fine arts that reflect the island's history. Events include dance, theater, music, and art exhibits. May.

International Jazz Festival

Focusing on the greats in jazz guitar this weeklong festival attracts world-wide attention. Musical exhibitions, free lessons, and workshops are part of this growing event. December.