The
Windward Islands, found in the southeastern
Caribbean, include Grenada, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and Martinique. Each island has its own food traditions shaped by African, French, Indian, and Creole influences. Travelers visiting these islands will find meals that highlight fresh seafood, local spices, tropical fruits, and hearty home-style dishes.
Caribbean Ingredients
Food in the Windward Islands starts with what is grown and caught locally. The islands are known for tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and guava. Spices such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves are also common, especially in
Grenada, often called the “Spice Island.” Freshly caught fish, lobster, and conch are everyday staples. These ingredients are combined to create bold flavors that define the region’s cuisine.
Traditional Caribbean Dishes to Try
Each island offers meals that are unique but share a common Caribbean style. In Saint Lucia, a popular dish is green fig and saltfish, made from boiled green bananas mixed with salted cod. Grenada is famous for oil down, a hearty one-pot dish with breadfruit, meat or fish, vegetables, and coconut milk. In
Dominica, visitors can enjoy mountain chicken, a traditional dish made from local frogs. Meanwhile, Martinique’s food reflects strong French influence with meals like colombo curry, made with chicken or goat and Caribbean spices.
Windward Islands Street Food and Snacks
Street food is a big part of daily life in the
Windward Islands. Vendors sell roti, flatbread filled with curried meat or vegetables, and doubles, fried bread with curried chickpeas. Fried plantains, cassava bread, and fresh fruit juices are also easy to find. These snacks give travelers an affordable and tasty way to experience local culture.
Caribbean Drinks and Local Beverages
Food in the Windward Islands is often paired with refreshing local drinks. Fresh coconut water, fruit juices, and locally brewed beers are widely available. Rum is especially popular across the islands. Each island produces its own version, often enjoyed in a cocktail or mixed with tropical juices. For example,
Martinique is known for its agricole rum, while Saint Lucia offers spiced rum with nutmeg and cinnamon flavors.
Island Flavors Await
The Windward Islands offer a food journey filled with rich flavors and cultural traditions. Travelers can enjoy everything from street snacks to home-style meals, with African, French, Indian, and Creole influences blending together to make this region unique.
We offer
Caribbean small cruise ships that give you the chance to taste the best of Windward Islands cuisine while exploring multiple destinations. Our small ship cruises bring you closer to local culture, food, and traditions. Start planning your Caribbean food adventure today and discover the unforgettable tastes of Grenada, Saint Lucia, Dominica, Martinique, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Contact us today to begin your journey!
