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  • Writer's pictureNicole Lawrence

Savor the Flavors: Aruba Cuisine for Couples – 10 Dishes You'll Love to Share

Updated: Aug 23


Champagne bottle and glasses on a sandy beach at sunset, symbolizing a romantic dining experience in Aruba for couples.
Experience the romance of Aruba with dishes perfect for couples—savor the flavors together as you enjoy stunning beach sunsets.

Aruba, often called the "Happy Island," is more than just its stunning beaches and adventurous activities.


For couples looking to celebrate life’s special moments, this Caribbean gem offers a just as memorable culinary experience.


Aruba cuisine for couples is all about sharing flavorful, romantic meals that make your getaway even more special.


After a day of exploring the island's natural beauty, there's nothing quite like indulging in its rich and diverse dishes.


Here are ten must-try Aruba dishes that couples will love to share.


Explore Aruba Cuisine for Couples: 10 Dishes You'll Love to Share


1. Seafood Delights


Seafood platter with shrimp and lemon served on ice, presented on a white table with wine glasses, perfect for a romantic meal in Aruba.
Indulge in a fresh seafood platter, perfect for couples to share during a romantic dining experience in Aruba.

What’s a visit to the Caribbean without savoring the freshest seafood?


Aruba’s waters offer abundant options, making it perfect for couples to enjoy Aruba cuisine together, from succulent mahi-mahi and grouper to the unique taste of lionfish.


Couples can enjoy a romantic seafood dinner by the beach, with dishes like red snapper or prawn cooked to perfection.


Whether grilled, baked, or fried, these ocean treasures are the perfect way to end a day in paradise.



2. Pan Bati: The Sweet Side of Romance


No Aruban meal is complete without Pan Bati, a sweet flatbread that’s a delightful companion to any main course, especially when experiencing Aruba cuisine for couples.


Light and flavorful, this bread melts in your mouth, making it a must-try for couples who appreciate the simple joys of life—like breaking bread together.



3. Hearty Stews and Soups


Warm bowl of hearty stew with vegetables, served in a blue pot alongside bread slices, representing traditional Aruban stews and soups.
Indulge in Aruba's hearty stews and soups, filled with rich flavors that are perfect for a comforting meal together.

For couples seeking comfort food with a Caribbean twist, Aruba’s stews and soups are the answer.


These dishes, often made with chicken, fish, or goat, are rich in flavor and tradition.


Sharing a bowl of hearty stew at a cozy local restaurant can be the perfect way to connect after a day of exploring.



4. Ayaca: A Wrapped Surprise


Nothing says “let’s share” like Ayaca, a festive dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.


Wrapped in banana leaves, this steamed beef dish, adorned with dried fruits and cashews, is perfect for couples looking to experience something unique together.



5. Keshi Yena: A Cheesy Delight


Indulge in Keshi Yena, an authentic Aruban dish that’s all about bold flavors and creativity.


A ball of cheese stuffed with spiced meat or poultry, it’s a dish that reflects Aruba’s rich cultural tapestry.


Couples can enjoy trying different versions of this dish across the island, each offering its own twist on tradition.



6. Funchi and Banana Hash: A Flavorful Duo


Colorful display of fresh fruits, including bananas, at a market, representing the ingredients used in Aruba's Funchi and Banana Hash.
Discover the vibrant ingredients used in Aruba's Funchi and Banana Hash, with fresh bananas and more adding to the dish's unique flavor.

This dynamic duo of flavors is something every couple should experience.


Funchi, a fried cornmeal mush often served with gouda, paired with the sweetness of fried plantains, offers a contrast that’s as delightful as the company you’re sharing it with.



7. Sweet Endings: Authentic Aruban Desserts


Close-up of a traditional Aruban dessert, similar to bread pudding, topped with banana slices, strawberries, and nuts.
Indulge in Aruba’s authentic desserts like Pan Bollo, a delicious bread pudding topped with fresh fruits, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

For couples with a sweet tooth, Aruba’s desserts are a dream come true.


Don’t leave the island without trying Pan Bollo, a bread pudding soaked in Ponche cream or rum and served with ice cream, or Bolo di Banana, a luscious plantain pudding.


These desserts are perfect for sharing—or indulging in together!



8. Hot Papaya Sauce: A Sweet and Spicy Affair


Add a little spice to your meal—and your relationship—with Aruba’s hot papaya sauce.


This sweet and spicy condiment, made from papaya fruit and hot peppers, is the perfect way to heat things up.



9. Aruba Ariba and Local Beers: Toast to Love


Close-up of an Aruba Ariba cocktail and a bottle of Chill beer on a beachside table, capturing the relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
Raise a glass to love with an Aruba Ariba cocktail or a local beer like Chill—perfect for toasting to romance on the beautiful beaches of Aruba.

Raise a glass to your love with an Aruba Ariba, the island’s signature cocktail, or a cold Balashi, the most popular local beer.


Whether you’re toasting to a special occasion or just to being together, these drinks are the perfect accompaniment to a romantic evening.



10. Pastechi: Street Food to Share


Pastechi, a popular Aruban street food, is a flaky pastry with gouda cheese perfect for sharing.


Stroll hand-in-hand through the local markets, sampling this tasty treat from various vendors. Each bite is a little taste of Aruba’s vibrant culture.


No matter where you dine in Aruba, indulge in these culinary delights, which are perfect for sharing with your loved one.


Aruba cuisine for couples offers a unique opportunity to bond over flavorful, romantic meals that will make your getaway truly unforgettable.


Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying each other's company, these dishes will add a delicious dimension to your experience.


If you’re ready to explore Aruba cuisine for couples and discover the island’s most romantic spots, schedule your Complimentary Consultation today.


Let us help you plan the perfect culinary adventure in Aruba or any other incredible destination!

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