Taste the Flavors of St. Thomas USVI

I am excited to be collaborating with my fellow foodie lover Hannah Victoria on this listing of places to eat in St. Thomas USVI whether you are visiting or local to the island. We are giving you our personal opinions based on our dining experiences at each of these locations we picked just for you! If you are looking for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner… We have got you covered! We would not recommend somewhere we have never been, and we are giving you the REAL, straight talk no chaser. Bon Appétit…

French Quarter Bistro: If you want a taste of New Orleans while you are in St. Thomas the French Quarter Bistro needs to be at the top of your list. I gravitated there by chance for drinks and then looked at the menu and ordered beignets to go with my Rum Punch. Enjoyed them so much we went back, and I had the Chicken and Andouille Gumbo. My brother had the Shrimp Pasta Alfredo, and it all was delicious and reasonably priced. Located at Rue De Saint Berthelemy, Frenchtown St. Thomas 00802 Great location for lunch and dinner. French Quarter Bistro

Blue 11: This is Hannah Victoria’s top pick for an upscale dining experience. It is the BEST food she has ever eaten AND… it is black-owned and operated. Check them out if you would like a four or seven course chef inspired meal. They also offer wine pairings and delicious desserts. You have the option to book reservations online. You can also let them know about any dietary restrictions prior to your visit. As a person with food sensitivities, I am glad I have the option to speak with someone about that before my dinner event. Located at Yacht Haven Grand St. Thomas USVI Blue 11

Tickles Dockside Pub: I love being by the water and Tickles Dockside Pub is in Crown Bay Marina. They have indoor and outdoor seating. You have a beautiful view of the yachts and ferries that are coming and going. It is a relaxing atmosphere with a tasty menu. They also have a full bar and can make just about ANY cocktail. My drink of choice was a pain killer, and I had the Callaloo Soup. My second time visiting I had the shrimp scampi, and it was delicious. They offer breakfast from 7am-11am, lunch and dinner. They also offer made to order pizzas for take-out. Located at 8168 Crown Bay Marina Suite 308 Tickles Dockside Pub

The Easterly: In the mood for some New America/ Caribbean small plates in a trendy atmosphere? Known for their seafood with local flavors and produce all cooked in a wood-fired kitchen. They offer a twist on Caribbean cocktails along with an extensive wine list and craft beer menu. This is another one of Hannah Victoria’s picks and she says it is mid-priced and worth every penny. Making a reservation is recommended although they do accept walk-ins. You may have a slight waiting period during peak dining hours. Dinner is offered from 4-10pm, Happy Hour from 4-6pm and Brunch on Saturday & Sunday from 10am-2pm. Located at 6100 Red Hook Quarter Suite GS-1 St. Thomas USVI 00802 The Easterly

Dog House Pub: Great vibe and chill spot for late night cocktails and bar food. Nice open environment, great music playlist with dine-in and take-out options. The food is good, drinks made to perfection and it is not expensive at all. I had the applewood bacon burger with sweet potato fries and it was YUMMY! My drink of choice was a pain killer. They open at 11:00 am just in time for lunch and stay open throughout dinner and for late bites. The staff is super chill and gives great service. Located at Havensight St. Thomas 00802

Eyeza Vegan: Looking for a great vegan option? Hannah Victoria recommends Eyeza Vegan. It is a modern plant-based restaurant. Not only will you get healthy food options that are flavorful with ingredients that are locally sourced but, they aim to please everyone from vegetarians to meat eaters. You have the option to dine-in with outdoor seating available or take-out. The chef can modify a dish if you have any allergy concerns. They are open for lunch and dinner daily and offer brunch on Sunday’s from 10am-3pm. Located at 2A Estate Donoe St. Thomas USVI 00802 Check them out on Instagram.

Bella Blu: If you want farm to table options and a wide variety of fusion menu food items then Bella Blu is for you. I had the pleasure of dining at Bella Blu for Sunday Brunch and it was delightful. The bottomless mimosas were a hit, I had the Belgian waffle with fresh fruit and a side of bacon. This is also the day I met Hannah Victoria and we bonded over food and cocktails. Hannah had a little hiccup with her cheese grits and switched it out for hash browns and all was well again. Bella Blu is open Wed. – Sun. from 5pm-10pm and Sunday Brunch from 10am-2pm. Located at 24A Honduras, Frenchtown St. Thomas USVI 00802 Bella Blu

Chicken Fry Restaurant Inc: If you are looking for excellent to-go buffet style food from the Dominican Republic, Hannah Victoria says you cannot go wrong with Chicken Fry. She recommends the Roast Pork or the Pork Ribs. You can dine-in but, seating is limited and there is no wait staff. It is counter service. They are popular for take-out and there are current capacity restrictions in place due to COVID-19. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Located at Kronprindsens Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802

Old Stone Farmhouse: Funny thing is while we were eating brunch at Bella Blu, Hannah Victoria mentioned the brunch menu at Old Stone Farmhouse and said we should go there before their brunch ended. She had me at the flourless chocolate cake and signature cocktails. So, guess what happened next? We went to Brunch Spot #2 and it was AMAZING! I was stuffed from my previous meal but, there’s always room for cake! I had to try the flourless chocolate cake paired with an old fashioned. Hannah’s recommendation and it DID NOT disappoint. She indulged as well and paired her chocolate cake with red wine. My brother had French toast that I was practically drooling over, two of our friends ordered the Cajun skillet and it was enough for me to add as a place to re-visit so I can enjoy all the tasty things.
Dinner Wednesday through Saturday starting at 5:30pm. Brunch on Sunday from 10am-2pm. I really cannot wait to get back there. Great dining experience, great service and loved the interior décor and outdoor courtyard. Located at Mahogany Run, St Thomas, VI 00802 Old Stone Farmhouse

Petite Pump Room: This locally owned gem offers authentic local cuisine in a dine-in setting. The food is delicious and can be paired with signature cocktails. Take it from Hannah Victoria, she knows what she is talking about. You can dine indoors or outdoors and take in the views of Charlotte Amalie Harbor. They also offer catering services. They are open for breakfast 7:00am – 10:30am Monday through Saturday and lunch 11:00am – 4:40pm Monday through Saturday. Check out their daily specials and are open on Sundays during season. Located at Edward Wilmoth Blyden Building, Veterans Drive. (Charlotte Amalie’s Waterfront near the seaplane & ferries to St. Croix & the BVI) Petite Pump Room

Caribbean Saloon Steakhouse & Bar: Great sports bar atmosphere with a diverse menu and full bar. I LOVE French Onion Soup and it is a go-to menu item for me so when I saw the French Onion Smothered Chicken on the menu it was a no brainer. Pounded thin breast sauteed in their onion broth and smothered with sauteed mushrooms, onions and melted provolone atop garlic crostini’s. YUMMMM! I cleaned my plate and did not have room for dessert, and you know my sweet tooth is serious. I paired it with a Tropical Sunset Cocktail. The pricing is reasonable for drinks, appetizers and entrees. They are open daily from 11:30am and follow the local closing policy during COVID-19 restrictions. They also seat every other table to allow social distancing within the restaurant. Located at American Yacht Harbor, 6100 Red Hook Quarters Smith Bay Rd, St Thomas, 00802

Hook Line & Sinker: If you are looking for a great seafood restaurant with an extensive menu and delicious drink options then look no further. They can tailor the menu to your dietary needs if you have food allergies and offer gluten-free options as well. Hannah Victoria says their pizza is delicious and gluten-free. They are offer dine-in, take-out and delivery options. Open 11:00-10:00pm Tuesday through Saturday. Located at 62 Honduras Frenchtown St. Thomas USVI 00802 Hook Line & Sinker

The Tap & Still: Best known for Burgers, Booze and Beer. They are a great bar to chill and take in the tunes on a late night. The drink specials are great! I ventured away from burgers and had the Korean Spicy Wings. There are three locations. Two on St. Thomas, one is at Havensight Mall and the other at American Yacht Harbor Red Hook and lastly the third location is in St. John at Cruz Bay. Open Daily from 11:00am – 10:00pm check website and social media for any updates by location. The Tap & Still

Za Rock Pizza Kitchen: Artisan Pizza with a great selection of craft beer and excellent wine to pair. Hannah Victoria says there are so many gourmet options to choose from. They also have gluten-free menu items and offer dine-in and take-out options. Outdoor seating is available. Open Tuesday – Thursday from 4:00pm – 8:00pm and Friday & Saturday from 4:00pm – 10:00pm. Bonus: Black-Owned Business.

There you have it; Hannah Victoria and I have given you fourteen restaurant and bar options between the both of us that we have personally dined at and shared our authentic experiences with you. So, let me share a little about Hannah Victoria with you. “Hannah Be Eating” and shares her food experiences with you that are anything but BASIC. She is a food lover, personal chef and service consultant. Connect with her on Instagram to follow all her foodie adventures and book her for your next event.

You all know me but, just in case there are some newbies around here… I am Jen Oni your resident travel consultant serving you travel content, foodie adventures and trending tech to make life easier. I have been traveling throughout this pandemic and it has been a personal choice to continue and have a sense of normalcy in my very hectic life that mostly consists of work. However, I partially work remotely so it allows me to travel and be flexible with my work schedule. I have shared with you all my travel experiences during COVID-19 but, if you have missed any, just look in the travel category to get all caught up.

Disclosure: Safety precautions were being followed & social distancing was in place while dining with these restaurants. Masks Required until seated.

Get Your Custom Burger Fix at BUILT®

I recently attended the VIP Grand Opening of BUILT® Custom Burgers in the Triangle’s NEW Alston Town Center in Cary. It was surprisingly only fourteen minutes away from my house and it’s a straight shot for me down Hwy 55. The location is 5033 Arco Street Cary, NC 27519. There are so many reasons I am excited about BUILT®, first and foremost I love the option to “build my own burger” and it makes it very easy for me to just add ingredients I can tolerate due to my food allergies.

You get 100% Angus Beef with NO hormones or antibiotics, the chicken is ALL NATURAL, ALL NATURAL Turkey, Vegan Veggie options and it’s one price fits all. So, no matter how many toppings you put on your burger it’s the same price! Can you say FREE unlimited toppings? I can’t remember the last time I wasn’t nickel and dimed for extra sauce or to add bacon or any other topping for that matter. You have a variety of toppings, sauces & dressings to choose from.

There is a Single ¼ lb or Double ½ lb. that you can choose from. You also have the option to choose a bun or bowl and your toppings and choice of protein will be on a bed of greens. There are Brioche, Whole Wheat and Gluten Free Buns available. The bowls come with Mixed Greens or a Lettuce Blend. There are also pre-styled burgers to choose from if you opt not to build your own burger. Carolina Style, N.C. Heat, The L. A. Way, Panther Club and the Breakfast Burger.

Fries & Tots are the sides available and you can get regular seasoned French fries, sweet potato fries, Tater Tots, Sweet Sriracha Fries or Tots and Garlic Aioli Fries or Tots. I wanted to try the Carolina Style Burger but had to re-create it and build my own because I couldn’t have everything that was originally on it. So, I went with the Double and added Lettuce Blend, Applewood Smoked Bacon and Sautéed Mushrooms with French Fries. I also had a Vanilla Shake to top it off!

This location is the first standalone location in the state. There is a BUILT® location at the Streets of Southpoint in the food court. I really like the concept of building your own burger or bowl with fresh ingredients and it’s not time consuming. It’s perfect to grab and go if you’re always on-the-go like me and don’t have a moment to dine in. I would highly suggest setting some time aside to have a dine in experience. It’s great and you get to see everything happen right in front of you.

Bonus: Starting Friday December 8th, through Sunday December 10th, all guests will receive a side of popular garlic or sweet sriracha tots with the purchase of any burger. Head over to the BUILT website to learn more. Disclosure: Thanks to my friend Leslie of SobeSavvy for extending the invitation. I enjoyed a complimentary lunch and learned all about BUILT®. All opinions expressed are 100% honest and completely my own.

How many toppings would you add on your custom BUILT® burger?

Black-Owned Restaurants in Raleigh, NC

You asked for it… Here it is! The list of Black-Owned Restaurants in Durham, NC is doing so well. There was a request to create a listing for Raleigh Restaurants as well. The Triangle is thriving with new construction both residential and commercial. New businesses are popping up everywhere. It’s great to have resource that you can refer to when wanting to support black-owned businesses in the Raleigh-Durham Area. If you are a foodie like me you’ll have fun exploring these restaurants in your community. One thing I’ve noticed is there are a variety of Soul Food and Caribbean Restaurants in Raleigh. Check them out.

Jerk Masters: If you have a taste for Jamaican Food then Jerk Masters has got you covered. Jerk Masters is known for their delicious Oxtail and Jerk Chicken Entrees. Location(s): at 3110 New Bern Ave. Raleigh, NC 27610 and 1909 Poole Rd. Raleigh, NC 27610 Jamaica Jerk Masters

Jack’s Seafood: Who doesn’t love catfish and flounder for lunch or dinner. They also offer combination dinners, soul food dinners, seafood dinners, mini meals and sandwiches. Located at 5416 Rock Quarry Rd. Raleigh, NC 27610 Jack’s Seafood

Larry’s Southern Kitchen: You can eat buffet (all-you-can-eat) style or order traditionally off of the southern menu. There are also breakfast options available. Located at 4205 Fayetteville Rd. Raleigh, NC 27603 Larry’s Southern Kitchen

Jamaican Grille: They will serve you up delicious Jamaican Cuisine. The menu is full of options from Curry Chicken to Oxtails to Stew and Jerk Chicken with Rice & Peas. You can check out their full menu on their website. Located at 5500 Atlantic Rd. Ste. 109 Raleigh, NC 27616

Mr. Wonderful’s Chicken & Waffles: ((CLOSED)) Southern Cuisine is on the menu at Mr. Wonderful’s. Fried Chicken, Ribs and Waffles are some favorites. It’s carry out. Located at 1200 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Mum’s Jamaican Restaurant: Well their tag line says it all… “A taste of yard abroad” The Caribbean menu is filled with a variety of entrees available in small, medium and large plates. There are authentic Jamaican Drinks and Sodas available along with beer options. Located at 3901 Capital Blvd. #101 Raleigh, NC 27604 Mum’s Jamaican Restaurant

Lee’s Kitchen: You get the best of both worlds with a Jamaican and Southern Fusion Menu. You also get the convenience of a food truck at disclosed locations and the scheduled food truck rodeo(s). Located at 4638 Capital Blvd. Raleigh, NC 27604 Lee’s Kitchen

Premier Cakes Bakery & Café: Delicious assortment of desserts to choose from. My mouth is watering for some Coconut Ciroc Cake. They have your favorite cakes, pies and puddings available. Visit their website ad Facebook Page to see what selections are available. Located at 6617-105 Falls of Neuse Road in the Falls Village Shopping Center Premier Cakes Bakery & Café

ORO Restaurant & Lounge: ORO has a diverse menu and is known for modern and innovative tapas and small plates with fun, creative craft cocktails. They have a great happy hour menu to “wine down” during the week. Located at 18 E Martin St. Raleigh, NC 27601 ORO Restaurant & Lounge

Oak City Fish & Chips: If you LOVE seafood then Oak City Fish & Chips has got you covered. Ever had a whole fried red snapper? You should try it! Located at 2822 New Birch Dr. Raleigh, NC 27610 and (Morgan Street Food Hall) 411 W. Morgan St. Raleigh, NC 27603 Oak City Fish & Chips

Boss of Vegan: Get your fix on burgers, hot dogs and taquitos! 100% Vegan Food! Located at 2161 S. Wilmington St. Raleigh, NC 27603 Boss of Vegan

Swahili Grill: If you want a taste of some African Kenyan Cuisine then head on over to Swahili Grill. Located at Triangle Town Center – 3721 Sumner Blvd. Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27616 Swahili Grill

Johnathan’s Sports Lounge & Grill: Full Service Restaurant with great happy hour appetizer specials, full menu and stocked bar. They offer online reservations, catering, venue space & live entertainment. Located at 3400 New Birch Dr. Suite 120 Raleigh, NC 27610 Jonathan’s Sports Lounge & Grill

Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant: Have a taste for some Brown Stew Chicken with Rice & Peas and a side of Plantains? Yes Please! Get you some… Located at 4412 Fayetteville Rd. Raleigh, NC 27603 Golden Krust Caribbean Restaurant

Kwench Juice Cafe: Juice, Smoothies, Acai or Pitaya Bowls are on the menu. You can even create your own raw juice! Are you ready for your next juice cleanse? Located at 9660 Falls of Neuse Rd. Raleigh, NC 27615 Kwench Juice Cafe

If you have any other Black-Owned Restaurants in Raleigh, NC you’d like me to add, email jen@jenoni.com

#GoodEats

A Few Reasons to Visit Seasons 52

I recently had the opportunity to visit Seasons 52 Restaurant to preview their summer menu. My partner in all things food (my daughter Bre) was my guest. It was all a delicious treat. You can expect fresh grilled menu items, wine bar with seasonal menus, artisan cocktails & craft beer. You’ll enjoy American Cuisine paired with a variety of wines including international choices in a chic and upscale setting. The restaurant is conveniently located at Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh, North Carolina. Open daily for lunch and dinner while brunch is available on Sundays.

Seasons 52 offers more than 100 wines by the bottle and 52 wines by the glass. They have craft beer and local and regional liquors that are featured in their hand-crafted cocktails. The Seasons 52 seasonal Menu is inspired by fresh locally sourced ingredients. There are several menus available and even some that cater to dietary restrictions like gluten sensitivities, lactose intolerance, vegan and vegetarian menu options. I appreciate this since I have food allergies. Happy Hour is “Sunset at Seasons” Monday – Friday 4-6:30 pm.

When I walked into Seasons 52 I immediately liked the vibe and atmosphere. We were in the private dining area rather than the general dining area. They host private events in that space on occasion. I looked around the room to see all the different stations set up for our tasting pleasure. My eyes gravitated straight toward the dessert table, because the way my sweet tooth is set up… I just couldn’t resist! I did pull myself together and opted to sample the entrée options first since that’s the right thing to do. The Rack of Lamb with sautéed vegetables and Yukon Mash was a treat!

Next up was Caramelized Grilled Sea Scallops, sweet corn risotto, snap peas and toybox tomatoes. It was so flavorful and I loved every bit of it. I honestly went back for seconds, thirds… etc. They had Watermelon & Heirloom Tomato Salad with shaved red onion, feta and lemon vinaigrette. It’s such a refreshing treat. There was Roasted Prosciutto Wrapped Figs, Gorgonzola stuffed with 15-year aged balsamic. I was just trying to work my way over to the dessert table. Slowly but, surely I was getting there!

Furthermore I can’t forget to mention the Watermelon Fresca! It was such a refreshing treat. I had it with and without Vodka! I enjoyed them equally the same. Of course I went for the Belgian Chocolate S’more because you know… Chocolate! Chocolate Cake, Rocky Road Mousse, toasted marshmallow and chocolate dipped graham cracker. It was so rich and delicious! I also had the Key Lime Pie. That’s one of my favorite desserts as much as anything chocolate. Pecan crust, toasted meringue and delicious!

Disclosure: I was invited to sample the seasonal menu at Seasons 52 for a blogger preview event. All opinions expressed are 100% honest and completely my own. #Hosted

Have you been to Seasons 52?

Save Money On Spa Day Using Groupon

Disclosure: Thanks to Groupon for sponsoring this post. All opinions are 100% honest and completely my own. #Groupon

groupon_logo

This time of year is the best time to take advantage of all the great Groupon deals. It’s back to school for traditional students and you can now focus on the upcoming holidays, events and special occasions that are right around the corner. I’m already planning my fall getaway and everything I want to do with my family before the end of the year. I like the convenience of having Groupon because I can browse and find exactly what I am looking for. Can you believe Christmas will be here before you know it? Is it too soon to break out my Advent Calendar? Let the countdown begin…

Groupon allows you to save money on things to do locally in your community, dining out, spa & beauty services, electronics, automotive, health & fitness along with travel. I more often than not have a budget that I am going to try my best and stick to. It’s nice to know that Groupon allows me to save even further by getting deals through them. I have a family household of six and two of my children are in college so you can imagine that I am being as frugal as I can be when it comes to family travel or dining out. It definitely adds up!

I must also mention that it’s TOTALLY fine to take some time just for YOU! There’s a variety health, beauty & wellness deals on Groupon that you can take advantage of. I’m notorious for always taking care of home, kids and spouse first putting myself on the back burner. I guess that is the life of a wife and mother but, we can’t forget about ourselves. We need to take time to relax, re-charge and get laser focused on the tasks we have ahead of us and sometimes UNplugging and a spa day does the trick! Even better when you are NOT spending and arm and a leg on it!

Saving money is a priority for many households especially during the times when you tend to spend the most. I know I always spend way more in the fourth quarter than I do any other quarter out of the year. I have my Birthday in October and I celebrate all month long dubbing it JENtober! Two out of my four children have Birthdays in October and December. I host Thanksgiving dinner almost every year and then we have Christmas. I can definitely say that using Groupon to purchase gifts and plan things to do with my family at a discount is HUGE for me.

If you are always on the go like me, then downloading the Groupon App should be a priority for you. The app is available for iPhone, iPad and Android devices. Head to the Apple App Store or Google Play for Android and download the app. You can search deals while you’re out and about. The Groupon website is very user friendly. It’s easy to sign up and you can log in using Facebook or your Google account to make things a bit easier. I love Groupon’s deals and the convenience of having access to it whenever I need it.

You can visit the Groupon website for more information and check out the great deals that are available to you right now!

error: Ask And You Shall Receive!!