My grandma used to say that the best compliment you could give a chef was a clean plate. Well, our plates were so clean you didn't need a dish washer. Chef Vincent provided one of the best meals we had in the Caribbean and to make such extraordinary food in a small tight kitchen with a small group of cooks was beyond all expectations!!! Let's starts with the location. You enter a parking lot, we were convinced at first that we arrived to a wrong location. Then at the far corner we saw a bright spot of light and the unmistakable sound of happy people dining. We approached and were greeted by the lovely hostest. Our table was not ready so we ordered a bottle of sancerre wine and sat by the balcony. In front of us lay the bay, full with local music and restaurants. A nice gentleman escorted us to our table and told us about all the wonderful choices. We started with a green papaya salad and the tuna carpaccio. I figured that if a chef from Chicago could get it done right in the Caribbean everything would be nothing short of amazing. And it was!!! The tuna melted in your mouth while the green papaya salad provided the edge, delivering a spicy mouthful of freshness. For the main course we had the red snapper in green curry sauce. It was a jaw dropping dish. One of the best fish dishes we had in all of the Caribbean islands. But that wasn't the grand finale.... For dessert, I opted to try a fresh ceviche while my better half opted for the Grilled pineapple with ice-cream. I must admit that I was a complete fool. The ceviche was fresh and delicious but her desert was out of this world. At the end of the movie "the princess bride" they talked about the top most passionate four kisses. So if sweets are your love language, this desert belongs to the four best deserts you'll ever have. Five stars in...
Read moreLet me just say, there are not enough wonderful things I can say about Speak Easy restaurant and their staff. I went to dinner with my wife and two teenage daughters, 14 and 17. Due to the sun and heat my wife was not feeling well and the staff was so attentive with helping us by bringing some ice in a towel and juice to make sure her blood sugar hadn't dropped (I am a Physician Assistant) at my request. They were nothing short of caring and fabulous. Now for the food...WOW. Their food from presentation to taste was spot on. Every one of us at the table could not stop talking about all the flavors that surprised us. I suppose when you have a Michelin star chef with a staff that is equally up to the task you have a restaurant that is easily the best fine dining experience on STJ. We have been coming here for close to 15 years and have eaten at all the fine dining restaurants in Cruz Bay and this is by far the best tasting food we have had. I am not knocking the other restaurants by any means, they are great in their own ways and we will continue to patronize them happily. But as far as pure flavors and presentation, Speak Easy is untouchable. The restaurant itself is quirky. It's in an area covered by a pergola with a converted trailer serving as a kitchen and converted trailer as a bar. It's only open on Tuesdays thru Fridays as the chef does private catering to homes on island and I will say he has to be worth every penny privately.They only accept Venmo or cash so be prepared. We only wish that we could have gone another time during our time on island...but we will be back next year and Speak Easy will be on the menu...and more than one night for sure! Thank you Speak Easy for a memorable...
Read moreWe recently had the pleasure of dining at this fabulous new restaurant, The Hideaway, on St John, and it was an experience to remember. This gem is beautifully situated with a gorgeous view of the harbor, making it the perfect spot to catch the sunset.
The menu boasts a selection of both cocktails and mocktails, ensuring everyone has something to enjoy, impressing us with their vibrant flavors and creative presentation.
The food, of course, was the star of the show. As longtime fans of Chef Vinny, we were thrilled to learn that he has now opened this restaurant. We enjoyed a range of dishes, each one showcasing his exceptional culinary skills and attention to detail. From our favorites of the Tuna Rose, Whole Roasted Chicken, Octopus Vindaloo, to the Hummus Plate, Green Goddess Stuffed Salad, and Quail Egg Ravioli, every bite was a testament to Chef Vinny’s talent. The Avocado Toast is the most refreshing I have ever had! The freshness of the ingredients and the innovative flavor combinations left us thoroughly impressed.
Being able to savor Chef Vinny's creations anytime we like is truly a blessing. His dishes, combined with the stunning harbor views, create an unforgettable dining experience. The Hideaway has quickly become our go-to spot for special occasions and casual dinners alike. Highly recommended for anyone...
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