Party in the Bahamas? You bet your conch chowder. But picking the right venue can be tricky considering the number of Bahamas tours to choose from that beg for your attention. Food’s important. So are libations. But in cities like Nassau and Freeport, no party would be complete without including gorgeous views of surf and sand. Whether your idea of the perfect venue is a shack or a chalet, there’s something perfect awaiting every party planner.
One Elegant Venue
A little island. A lot of luxe. When organizing your list of things to do in the Bahamas, put the Graycliff atop your Nassau list. Once a British estate, Graycliff offers breathtaking views. Graycliff was the first Caribbean restaurant to earn 5-star ratings, so anticipate eclectic menu choices that run the gamut from pizza to French dishes prepared by classically-trained chefs. Visit Graycliff’s award-winning wine cellar where 250,000 bottles of vino rest below ground. Hand-rolled cigars end every repast. Reservations, please—or your party could be less than merry!
According to the Caribbean Journal
Potters Cay Dock is a fabulous party place where signature dishes like conch chowder keep patrons coming back. The Journal recommends throwing a party at Cafe Matisse. The name’s French. The food’s Italian. The landscape is pure Bahamian: sultry settees and arches carved from stucco. The Poop Deck, in the business of hosting parties for 40 years, also makes the Caribbean Journal’s roster of top Nassau restaurants. Traveller’s Restaurant wins rave reviews from locals and tourists alike: one New York Times reviewer spent as much time describing vistas as waxing poetic about the eatery's specials. Don’t leave Nassau before entertaining your crowd at Luciano’s of Chicago. Replacing the Willis Tower are tall, swaying palms and a moon the size of Chicago’s skyline.
Fodor’s Weighs In
If Fodor’s reviewers take a shine to a place, it’s likely exceptional. Fodor’s top vote getters for outstanding Freeport restaurants mixing delicious food with lush tropical ambiance includes Peter Mousis’ Athena Café and Bar. Think Greek food with a healthy addition of Bahamian culinary influences. If you love tradition, head for Bahamian Cookin’ Restaurant & Bar. Women have ruled the roost there for three generations. They cook. They serve. They delight. Fodor’s also suggests the East Villa Restaurant and Lounge, a converted Bahamian home offering exceptional Asian atmosphere and cuisine.
Chick’s Choice
Blogger Tracy E. Hopkins uses her website to spread the word about great party venues in Freeport. Tracy’s search for off-the-beaten-track eateries includes the Port Lucaya marketplace. The building has the architectural feel of New Orleans' Bourbon Street--but that’s where similarities end. Entertain party guests at East, the only sushi restaurant in the Bahamas or throw a party that won’t break your vacation budget by asking guests to meet you at Zorba’s, a no-frills taverna known for serving heaping platters of Greek-meets-Bahamian seafood. Zorba’s prices are so reasonable, party goers won't have to show up with empty pockets at their favorite Paradise Island gaming tables.
There’s More
Feel overwhelmed? Practice the Zen of Nassau by making a bucket list that includes these Freeport eateries, crossing each one off until you're partied out. Geneva’s Place satisfies cravings for British and Irish food. Cap the evening by hosting an after-party at the Prince of Wales Lounge. Sample Bahamian barbecue at The Rib Room or duck into China Palace for Asian delights. Don't leave until you sip signature drinks at The Margarita Villa Sandbar. Feeling overwhelmed by so many party venue choices? Relax. You can always come back!
