The islands around the world offer some of the most vibrant, diverse, and fresh cuisines you can find. Whether you’re looking for spicy dishes in the Caribbean or have a taste for seafood by the Mediterranean, island cuisine often reflects the local flavors, ingredients, and culinary traditions unique to each region. 

Here’s a guide to some must-try island dishes and where to find them.

Jerk Chicken – Jamaica

A trip to Jamaica isn’t complete without tasting authentic jerk chicken. This dish features chicken marinated in a spicy blend of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and other spices before being slow-cooked over pimento wood. The result? Smoky, spicy, and deeply flavorful chicken that embodies the spirit of Jamaican cuisine.

Where to Find It: Boston Bay in Portland is considered the birthplace of jerk cooking, and you’ll find some of the best jerk chicken stands here. Also, try Scotchies in Montego Bay, a local favorite.

Poke – Hawaii, USA

Poke is Hawaii’s answer to fresh, fast, and delicious food. This iconic dish consists of raw, cubed fish (usually ahi tuna) mixed with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and seaweed. It’s a dish that celebrates Hawaii’s love for seafood with a blend of Japanese-inspired flavors.

Where to Find It: You’ll find poke everywhere in Hawaii, from grocery stores to specialty poke bars. For a deliciously fresh poke bowl, try Ono Seafood in Honolulu or Paia Fish Market on Maui.

Bouillabaisse – Provence, France (Corsica)

Bouillabaisse is a classic Provençal seafood stew originating from the Mediterranean coast, and it’s especially popular on the island of Corsica. This rich dish features a variety of fish and shellfish cooked in a broth with tomatoes, garlic, saffron, and herbs. Traditionally served with rouille, a garlicky mayonnaise spread on bread, it’s both comforting and flavorful.

Where to Find It: Head to the port town of Marseille, just a short ferry ride from Corsica, or try Chez Gilbert in Cassis for an authentic bouillabaisse experience.

Roti – Trinidad and Tobago

Roti is a popular Caribbean dish influenced by Indian cuisine. This flatbread is typically filled with curried meat or vegetables, including options like chicken, goat, shrimp, or chickpeas. The warm spices of the curry, wrapped in a soft, flaky roti, make this dish satisfying and flavorful.

Where to Find It: Try popular roti shops like Patraj Roti Shop in Port of Spain or Ali’s Roti Shop in San Fernando. Roti is a staple throughout Trinidad and Tobago, and you’ll find it served at local stands and casual eateries.

Sushi and Sashimi – Japan (Okinawa Islands)

The Okinawa Islands are a fantastic place to enjoy Japan’s famous sushi and sashimi, with fresh seafood sourced directly from surrounding waters. Expect a variety of fish such as tuna, squid, octopus, and Okinawa’s local favorite, umi-budo (sea grapes), which add a delightful, briny pop to the meal.

Where to Find It: Naha Fish Market in Okinawa is an excellent spot to sample ultra-fresh sashimi. For a memorable sushi experience, try Makishi Public Market, where you can select fish directly from vendors and have it prepared on the spot.

Ceviche – Peru (Galápagos Islands)

Ceviche is Peru’s national dish, and the Galápagos Islands offer a unique take on this refreshing, citrus-marinated seafood dish. Fresh fish or shrimp are cured in lime juice and mixed with ingredients like red onion, cilantro, and aji peppers. The result is a light and tangy dish with a perfect balance of flavors.

Where to Find It: The Galápagos Islands offer many beachside cevicherias, but for a more traditional experience, head to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, where local spots like Bahia Mar are popular among visitors and locals alike.

Tom Yum Goong – Thailand (Phuket)

Tom Yum Goong is a spicy and sour Thai soup made with shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chilies. This aromatic dish is packed with the bold, zesty flavors of Thai cuisine and pairs perfectly with the tropical island vibe of Phuket.

Where to Find It: Head to local restaurants in Phuket Town like Raya or Blue Elephant. Street food stalls are also a great option to find an authentic bowl of Tom Yum Goong.

Grilled Octopus – Greece (Santorini)

The Greeks are masters of simple, delicious seafood, and grilled octopus is a beloved specialty on Santorini. The octopus is typically marinated and chargrilled, giving it a smoky flavor with a tender yet slightly chewy texture. Served with a squeeze of lemon, it’s a dish that celebrates the essence of the Mediterranean.

Where to Find It: Most seaside tavernas on Santorini serve grilled octopus, but Amoudi Bay in Oia is famous for fresh, delicious seafood with beautiful sea views.

Spiny Lobster – The Bahamas

The Bahamas are known for their succulent spiny lobster, which is slightly sweeter than the cold-water lobster varieties. Bahamian spiny lobster is typically grilled and served with lemon, butter, or even jerk seasoning for extra flavor.

Where to Find It: Head to Nassau’s Fish Fry at Arawak Cay, where you’ll find local seafood shacks like Twin Brothers serving up tasty lobster dishes. The Exumas are also great for enjoying fresh lobster, especially during lobster season.

Palusami – Samoa

Palusami is a Samoan delicacy that reflects the heart of Pacific Island cuisine. Made with taro leaves wrapped around coconut cream and onions, then baked until tender, it’s a rich, comforting dish that brings out the best of Samoan flavors.

Where to Find It: You’ll find palusami at family-owned eateries and traditional Samoan restaurants in Apia, Samoa’s capital. Visit the Samoa Cultural Village for an authentic taste along with a cultural experience.

Conch Salad – Turks and Caicos

Conch is a staple in Turks and Caicos, and conch salad is a refreshing way to enjoy this local delicacy. The dish is made by mixing raw conch meat with lime juice, tomatoes, onions, and peppers, creating a bright and tangy seafood salad that’s perfect for a hot day on the beach.

Where to Find It: Da Conch Shack in Providenciales is a must-visit for fresh conch salad and other conch-based dishes with a lively, beachside atmosphere.

Tips for Food Lovers Traveling to Islands

  • Embrace Street Food: Many island cultures have amazing street food scenes, so don’t be afraid to try something from a food stall or beach shack.
  • Explore Local Markets: Markets are often the best places to find fresh ingredients and dishes unique to the area. Plus, you can pick up local spices or snacks to bring home.
  • Eat Seasonally: Many islands rely on seasonal ingredients. Ask locals for recommendations to try what’s fresh and in season.

Island cuisine offers a sensory journey of flavors, ingredients, and dishes that reflect each region’s unique culinary heritage. From tropical fruits and freshly caught seafood to rich spices and innovative twists on traditional recipes, the world of island cuisine is a food lover’s paradise. So pack your appetite and get ready to savor the tastes of the world’s most beautiful islands!