Miss Lucy's — Restaurant in Saint John

Miss Lucy’s shows up on many people’s “must see” lists for St. John. We went on Thursday night, which is “Open Mic Night,” and I got to play keyboard with the excellent house band! A great evening.

We spent the late morning and afternoon at Saltpond/Ram Head, which meant we were already on the Coral Bay side of the island, where Miss Lucy’s is. The VITRAN bus picked us up at Saltpond, and kindly dropped us off at Miss Lucy’s a bit before dinnertime. The VITRAN bus is a great option, if you can make it work in your schedule, but be sure to check when they’re coming. (The website schedule has almost nothing to do with the actual schedule!)

We were glad we had some OFF insect repellant lotion, as were a few other people who asked to use some of ours! The band was setting up, and new members kept coming, even after the evening started. Apparently, the chef hadn’t shown up yet, but they took food orders, served drinks, and the music got going pretty close to on schedule, 5:30 pm.

It was a great evening! Lots of folks—singles, couples, families—and everyone was into the music. Lauren and Bo Magnie (and their wonderful kids) really make it happen, along with a large cast of friends. The music ranged from reggae to folk to jazz to rockabilly, with lots of folks stepping in for a few numbers. Someone was making balloon animals, someone else was blowing bubbles. There was lots of dancing, and people jumping in with the band. There was even a guy playing spoons.

The food came out incredibly LATE, like over an hour after we ordered it. But to be honest, no one cared very much. Everyone was having a blast, dancing, singing, and playing under the colored lights on a beautiful St. John evening. The place was packed.

Oh, back to the food! We had fried plantains, and kallaloo and crab soup. Presentation was super informal, but the flavor was off the charts “top shelf!” It could’ve been something we got at a fancy place. So good.

One thing: if you’re relying on taxis, make arrangements beforehand. We got stranded, there was no cell service, and the restaurant wifi was down. So we bummed a ride (thank you, new friend!) until we got into cell range, then called our favorite taxi driver for the ride home. But this just added to the wonderful adventure of Open Mic Night at Miss Lucy’s....

Great food but, needs more wait staff for such a popular spot. We came in on a Wednesday after being run off the beach by a passing shower (~11:15). This must have been the same response for many other patrons. We were just able to beat the majority of the rush and seated within 5mins or so. Ordered drinks and appetizers (Rum punch and Plantains were delicious). Placed our order. Food came out in a reasonable amount of time (20-25mins) well worth the wait. I shared the Lucy's Grouper Ruben sandwich and the West Indies Fried fish. The Ruben was crispy fried grouper in a delicious Ruben sandwich with a side of fries. The West Indies was a lightly pan seared grouper with an enjoyable island spice (not overpowering) served with grilled veggies, beans and rice and fried plantains. Amazing! Moderately priced and bill had tip included (15-20%).When we were ready for to leave we had difficulty getting the bill paid due to the amount of people that had arrived while we were eating. Partly self induced with a party of splitting the bill 3ways with cash and credit. Pro Tip: When eating as a group on the island Cash is king! Waitress was super friendly but obviously flustered and in the weeds due to the sudden rush. As anyone who has worked in the food service industry can identify with. I definitely would recommend this place again and look forward to a return trip to Miss Lucy's! Just remember, you're in one of the most beautiful places on the planet, leave the stress of the mainland at home and take in the views...

Miss Lucy's was recommended to us by some people we know who went their previously; they said it was relaxing, had a nice view and that the food was decent. So, based on this recommendation, we went for their Sunday brunch - we were not disappointed.

Being on the East end of the island, it is not the easiest place to get to. It is basically a 30 to 45 minute drive from the West side of the island (where everything is). We had a rental vehicle, so we did not have to pay the high cab fare to get here. The restaurant itself is right on the water, overlooking the entrance to Coral Harbor and out towards the British Virgin Islands. I wouldn't describe the view as breathtaking, but as far as restaurants go, it is one of the best on the island.

The outdoor patio where most people sit is situated underneath a number of trees (not sure what they are) that are excellent for providing shade, and channeling the breeze from the ocean so that you can keep cool. As advertised, it was a very relaxing and contenting setting. The service was generally cordial and prompt; and the food was good.

If you're looking for a restaurant that has a great, relaxing view, good food, and is a bit away from the rest of the tourist commotion - this is a...