St. Croix is an island best discovered by appetite. Though the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, it's compact enough to explore by car in a day or two. That's good news for travelers who want to go beyond the resort and explore the local flavors, roadside secrets and fine dining spots that define the island's culinary scene.
For travel advisors, a food-focused roadtrip offers a smart way to introduce clients to St. Croix's culinary culture, from conch water to craft beer.
First stops: Chicken and craft beer near the airport

La Reine Chicken Shack is a local institution in St. Croix. Photo Credit: Meagan Drillinger
A natural place to start is La Reine Chicken Shack, just west of Christiansted and a quick drive from the airport. It's an open-air Crucian classic where rotisserie chicken spins all day over smoky coals. Served with generous sides and fluffy Johnnycakes, it's casual, quick and full of character. The long wooden bar is often lined with locals catching up over a midday rum.
Nearby, Leatherback Brewing Co. offers a very different vibe: sleek taproom, small-batch brews and flights of IPAs, lagers and seasonal specialties made with ingredients like local honey and passionfruit. It's a convenient pre- or post-flight stop that works well for travelers into the craft beer scene.
Christiansted: Elevated dining, waterfront views

Leatherback Brewing Co. brews craft beer right on-site. Photo Credit: Meagan Drillinger
Christiansted is the island's restaurant capital, fusing history with a slew of dining styles. Top of the list is Savant, a perennial favorite tucked behind a stone facade. Guests dine in a lantern-lit courtyard under vines and palms while dishes like grilled mahi-mahi or rack of lamb arrive fresh from the kitchen. It's a reliable recommendation for couples, foodies and anyone craving a polished night out.
A few blocks away, Galangal serves Thai- and French-inspired cuisine in a stylish setting. Think duck with tamarind glaze, tuna tartare and one of the island's strongest cocktail programs.
For something more relaxed, Shupe's on the Boardwalk delivers casual waterfront dining, with burgers, wings and live music in the evenings.
North shore: Casual vibes, Cane bay views

Spratnet serves up homemade mamajuana, a local spirit made with rum, red wine and tree bark. Photo Credit: Meagan Drillinger
As the road winds west along the north shore, the vibe shifts: more jungle, more coastline, fewer crowds.
The Landing Beach Bar, near Cane Bay, strikes the right balance between rustic and refined. It's a casual, open-air bar with good food, strong drinks and some of the best views on this side of the island. While it attracts tourists, it remains a favorite with locals, thanks to its welcoming energy and dependable pours.
Just across the street, Spratnet Beach Bar goes even more low-key. There's no website, no frills and usually no crowds. Just a few tables, cold beer on repeat and maybe a shot of homemade mamajuana (a moonshine-strength liquor made from rum, red wine and honey with a blend of tree bark and spices).
Frederiksted: Roadside pop-ups and sunset cocktails

The Landing is a popular roadside bar and grill on the north shore of St. Croix. Photo Credit: Meagan Drillinger
On the west end, Frederiksted offers fewer formal restaurants but a wealth of local flavor. Before reaching town, look for LauAnd's, a roadside pop-up marked only by a canopy, coolers and a couple of tables. It's where you'll find some of the best conch water and roti on the island. While there's no printed menu or website, the flavors speak for themselves. This is a solid pick for adventurous eaters or return visitors who want a taste of true Crucian cooking.
For sunset, head straight to Rhythms at Rainbow Beach, a longtime favorite for its open-air setup, friendly service and front-row view of the sun dipping into the Caribbean.?
Who it's for
This kind of culinary circuit suits independent travelers, repeat Caribbean visitors and anyone looking for a more immersive experience. Renting a car is a must, and most roads are well-marked and in good condition.
St. Croix's culinary scene is layered, local and full of surprises. From rotisserie chicken to roti under a tent, the island delivers a meal at every mile marker.