charlie's Bistro restaurant — Restaurant in Île des Terres Basses

We ate here twice during our 4 days on Sint Maarten. Incredible food, and just the most delightful, friendly staff. The owners were the only ones working the first day, and they were so lovely and humorous and laid-back and welcoming. Charlie came out from the back and made sure we liked everything. We talked story for a bit, and learned more about why this place is also known as Goat Fish Restaurant (spoiler: the actual brick-and-mortar location is called "Goat Fish Restaurant" despite who is currently located there).

When we came back two days later, there was another server, but Charlie and his partner (I didn't learn her name) came out and recognized us. We talked more, and learned about Charlie's preferred diving places around the area, among other things.

The first time, I had the oxtail soup, which was to die for. The second visit, I had a whole grilled snapper, also perfection. And you can really ask them to cook just about anything in any way. No need to have any concerns about food sensitivities or restrictions: just communicate what you want and it's a breeze!

It's abundantly obvious that the owners make most everything from scratch and really pour themselves into their craft. They really were such a bright spot in an already bright vacation. We'll be coming back here any...

Charlie's Bistro, it's owners and staff get a complete 5 stars for hospitality and just being great at what they do!! Every meal was a hit , and while this a repeat visit to now my favorite spot for break, lunch and dinner; I was pleasantly rejoicing that even a few years later, the consistency in delivering flavorful, well prepared food --stuffed plantains, porridge, fried red snappers (escoviche), all the provisions, drinks of all sorts, oxtail with a killer gravy and much more--- was still 💯 % a priority executed.

Folks, when I'm in the Caribbean, I prefer local meals and an opportunity to patronize local small businesses. I 💯% do ll to ditch burgers, ribs, steak and french fries which so many are offering because somehow it seem that's what tourists want. (And they might). Anyhow, if you're like me and desire some homegrown meals, check out Charlie's Bistro. (10 mins from the SXM airport).

Guys, see you all soon. Compliments...

Charlie’s Bistro was by far our favorite restaurant in Sint Maarten. It’s a little restaurant tucked by the fish market in Simpson Bay, easy to miss, but well worth finding. Charlie is a chef who has long worked in Sint Maarten and is now putting his creative talents to use in his restaurant. He has immense pride in his food and it shows. The first time we came we had johnnycakes, grilled fish, and a roti with chicken curry. Everything was fantastic, fresh, and flavorful. Charlie and his wife are warm and welcoming and have a great sense of humor. The second time we came, we had grilled yellowtail snapper and grilled lobster, along with johnnycakes stuffed with saltfish. The “provisions” are a medley of mixed root vegetables and plantains and are really delicious. Highly...