As the Spice Island, you can expect your Grenadian food to be beautifully seasoned, from the smallest café to the most prestigious restaurant. However, at its core, the cuisine here is prepared without fuss, explaining why oil down, a one-pot stew, holds the title of its national dish. This warming meal is made using salted meats, dumplings, vegetables, coconut milk, and plenty of spice.
You’ll find various delicacies that draw influence from African, Indian, and even Spanish menus here, with roti being a popular street food snack. The wholewheat flatbread is typically filled with curry meat, fish, or vegetables, and will surely keep you fuelled all afternoon. Grab one to go and head out on your next adventure!
Time for a sweet treat? Once you taste nutmeg ice cream, you’ll want it to be part of your daily routine. By lacing the frozen treat with aromatic spice, this distinctly Caribbean take on a Western classic becomes equal parts refreshing and indulgent.
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting over Christmas, don’t miss the chance to try a slice of Grenadian black cake – a rum-soaked fruit cake that’s prepared weeks in advance. And speaking of the popular spirit, you’ll obviously find rum served widely across the island. We’d suggest a traditional rum punch topped with grated nutmeg.
Winter Salad with Quinoa
Grenada boasts over 40 white and black sand beaches, so you’ll never be short of finding your own spot. Grand Anse Beach is by far the most popular, flanked by enviable facilities due to its proximity to the island’s capital. You’ll find many water-sports options to keep kids happy too.
Other honourable mentions include Morne Rogue Beach and Bathway Beach, both of which are beloved by locals, while Paradise Beach truly lives up to its name.
While Grenada definitely hits its stride during the winter months, you can find plenty to do throughout the year. The Spice Island Billfish Tournament and Grenada Sailing Festival take place every January. Continue into February and you’ll enjoy the Carriacou Carnival as well as Independence Day on February 7th, marked with a festival-like atmosphere across the island.
Even if you’ve chosen to spend the festive period in Grenada, swapping chances of snow with the assurance of sunshine, you may still be craving a little Christmas spirit. Grenada far from disappoints, with the islands of Carriacou and Petit Martinique hosting their own merriments too.
And if you choose to visit during the summer holidays, you’ll still find the island alive with celebrations. The annual Spicemas Festival takes place between July and August, featuring well-attended soca and dance competitions. There’s also a music festival that brings artists from all over the world to Grenada – an impressive feat given the island’s size.
Throughout the year, foodies can also enjoy activities like a chocolate tour at the Belmont Estate, or try their hand at making their own chocolate bar and truffle at the Tri Island Chocolate Factory. If you prefer more savoury flavours, opt for the Flavors of Grenada Culinary Safari Tour – and come hungry!
Annandale Waterfall