The Coal Pot Restaurant — Restaurant in Saint Lucia

This place had been recommended to us by our driver, so on our 2nd night we decided to try it. The scenery is very unique. There are separate little areas everywhere with a few tables in each and lights and decor all around. It was a very surreal experience just walking in. Our waiter was a young man who was very friendly and professional as well. Unfortunately, that was the end of our nice experience. The "daily menu" was set by our table, and shortly after, the manager, I assume, walked by and asked if we needed anything before we ordered, so we asked her a few questions. She could not hide her insant annoyance that we bothered her with questions instead of just ordering. The first 3 items that we asked about, the items that our party of 3 wanted to order, were not available even though it was the menu that they supposedly made for the day. We were also the first people to arrive for dinner, so they didn't run out. After deciding that we couldn't get the items that we wanted, we let our waiter know that we would come back another night, to which he responded, "no problem. I understand." While paying for our waters that we didn't drink, and tipping our waiter, the manager came back out and asked what the problem was. We politely said that we had our hearts set on items that they didn't have and would come back another evening since we were on-island for two weeks. She became even more rude and condescending and told my mother that she "would not enjoy the food anyway since most things were seasoned with onion, and we probably shouldn't come back". Earlier, my mother had asked if a dish had onions in it... So, on the recommendation from their staff, we went and tried Flavors Of The Grill and loved it! It was not fancy, but their staff was AMAZING and the food was good. We are already planning a trip back in a few nights and requesting our server, Esma, or perhaps, Ezma. She was phenomenal! I have ZERO issue paying for good food! I am fortunate enough not to really worry about prices, but I will not be treated poorly by a rude...

The Coal Pot in St. Lucia has a lot going for it, starting with its charming location right on the water. The view is serene, and the setting is perfect for a tropical dining experience. Parking was convenient, with a good amount available nearby, which is always a plus.

However, the restaurant is entirely open-air, and on the particular night we visited, the temperature was uncomfortable, making it hard to fully enjoy our meal. Unfortunately, there was no air flow or fans, which might have improved the situation, though it could have just been an exceptionally warm evening.

The menu is presented on a large board that they bring to your table—a unique touch that adds to the island vibe. Most of the items were available, and the prices were reasonable, considering the restaurant's style and location on a resort island. We appreciated that they provided bug spray, which was very much needed as we were bitten several times during our meal.

The food itself was good, but I would recommend skipping the surf and turf. The portion was disappointing, with a small steak and just two prawns. Given the price, it didn't feel like the best value.

Service was attentive up until the meal was served. After that, we had to wait a long time for the bill, which felt even longer in the hot, stagnant air while mosquitos were biting. We eventually went up to the bar to request the check.

All in all, The Coal Pot is worth a visit while you're on the island, but be prepared for the open-air experience, and perhaps choose your...

Been to St Lucia 11 times and this is another of my “must go to”every time places. Located on a harbour in Castries down a rough road is the Coal pot, open air dining right on the edge of the water, very dim lit and romantic. Definitely a couples place to go on a island known for romance. Serves mostly fresh seafood, all prepared the way you request it. The menu is on a chalk board as it changes based on the fresh catch that’s available that day. Every meal I have had here has been well presented and delicious from start to finish, the service is excellent with people checking on you and striking up conversations

The only negative was from one of our servers that complained that the owner keeps the automatic service charge added to the bill meant for them..... so I tipped over and above....but on asking my driver was told I got hustled ..... 😂oh well!

Overall it was a great night and they really took care of me with both service and providing an excellent meal!

Will definitely go back on my 12th visit!

Update* Back again Jan 2025…. Still delicious but with some nice changes to decor, beautiful and romantic, little thatched roof dining “pods” with no walls, letting the fresh Caribbean air in, giving you a view of the harbour which at night with the lovely lighting they have gives it that romantic feel Food is amazing from start to finish, deserts made in house, drinks tasty… service friendly, family run for generations….. zero complaints

Pictures don’t do it justice...