Here is your one-stop shop for outdoor dining recommendations in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, and Hawaii. We asked the experts their recommendations so you can take these fool-proof options into consideration during your vacation planning. Let's get started.
Dominican Republic recommendations.
Jellyfish Beach Restaurant
Its name doesn’t come from the food, but its architecture. Cables surround the building which holds drapes that provide an open air concept and can be closed on rainy days. This unique, beachfront dining spot in Punta Cana is a hit among travelers who appreciate ambiance and extremely fresh seafood. Daily catches come from the dock next door. We recommend their famous lobster dish. If you fall in love with this restaurant, you can even host your destination wedding there.
BRGRS.PH at Nickelodeon Resort Punta Cana
If you’re a burger lover, then this food truck inspired restaurant at Nickelodeon Resort in Punta Cana will be sure to please you. Share a dish with the whole family with their massive Machete Burger. It will literally feed everyone. You don’t even have to step outside the resort to enjoy a great food truck meal.
Hawaii recommendations.
House without a Key – Oahu
Amongst the hustle and bustle of Honolulu, relaxing music plays under the Kiawe tree at Halekulani’s House without a Key. Entertainment begins each night at 5:30p.m. Visitors marvel at the hue of the sunset while enjoying a signature Mai Tai as starters are served. Order their signature dish, Steamed Onaga. You won’t be disappointed.
Umeke's – Big Island
Poke bowls are often the first dish that comes to mind when people think of authentic Hawaiian food. Poke is a rice bowl with fresh seafood and veggies. Umeke’s poke bowls and local lunch plates house the “Prince of Poke” who has reigned the championship of poke competitions in the past. Get your first taste of poke right with this popular spot on Hawaii.
The Mill House – Maui
Can you imagine a scrumptious meal overlooking the Maui Tropical Plantation? That is what The Mill House is known for. Farm-to-table supporters will be drawn to this eatery for its transparent ingredients and preparation. Take a seat at the Maui Chef’s Table in an open-air kitchen for dinner and a show. You’ll always get a new and fresh dish since they change their menu daily so every bite is in-season.
Wailua Shave Ice – Kauai
Another dish that screams Hawaii is shave ice. It’s a refreshing dessert of flavored ice that’s light as a feather. Just pick the flavor of your choice: pineapple, coconut, strawberry… The possibilities are endless. The fruit is always local and the menu is switched up weekly.
Jamaica recommendations.
Scotchies
Jerk chicken and pork is what Jamaica is known for when it comes to food. Scotchies is our top recommendation to get your fix and has multiple locations including Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. Pull up an empty keg, take a seat, and devour. At this local favorite, the secret is in the wood. You won’t find frills here.
Insider tip: Add a Red Stripe beer and hold the extra hot sauce.
Rick’s Cafe
A meal, view, and a thrill are what you’ll get at this famous spot in Negril. Rick’s Café is a bar and restaurant known for its location on the West End Cliffs that boast incredible sunsets. If you’re an adrenaline seeker, you’ll love the thrill of its famous cliff jumping. Enjoy a Red Stripe beer while watching locals and travelers alike plummet into the crystal blue Caribbean Sea.
Mexico recommendations.
Palmar Trapiche
A hop, skip, and a jump over the river from downtown Sayulita, you’ll find this craft beer garden. You’ll feel right at home in their open-air tropical garden atmosphere. They have sensational blondes (beer, not ladies) and is home to awarded chef, Nico. The beer is courtesy of local microbrewery, Colima Brewery. We recommend trying their pulled beef burger or the Zarandeado.
Mariscos Mazatlán
If you’re looking for fantastic service and the best value, go to this Cabo restaurant. People have claimed they’d only eaten an appetizer and they left full. You’ll be in heaven with their Cadillac margarita and guacamole. People can’t seem to stop raving about the fresh seafood.
Casa Jaguar
If you prefer a foodie adventure in the jungle, go to this Tulum hotspot. Make sure to dine here on a Thursday for their live music beneath the stars. It’s the perfect location for an intimate gathering with loved ones like a wedding celebration or birthday bash. The grilled octopus is rich and delicious which we highly recommend. If you’re planning to visit, book a reservation and apply bug spray.
Phew. We bet you’re starved. If you’re not too hungry, head over to Weddings by Funjet’s blog for even more vacation dining inspiration.
