Barefoot Restaurant Aruba – Sunset Dining with Toes in the Sand

Atmosphere & Story

Barefoot Restaurant sits on L.G. Smith Boulevard, where the shoreline meets an open-air palapa deck and powder-soft sand. Owners Luc and Chef Gerco created the concept to blend Aruba’s two greatest pleasures—beach days and stellar dining—into one unforgettable evening. Guests slip off their shoes, sink their feet into the sand, and listen to waves roll in while attentive servers orchestrate a seamless, fine-yet-relaxed experience. Plan for dusk: the sun melts into the horizon just beyond your table, painting the sky in golds and pinks for a perfect photo moment.

Culinary Philosophy

The menu champions Caribbean freshness with Dutch finesse. Chef Gerco’s kitchen focuses on just-caught seafood, premium meats, and vegetarian standouts, all plated with artistic flair. Each dish is crafted to complement al fresco dining—vibrant sauces, seasonal produce, and textures that shine in the island breeze.

What to Order First

• Sunset Sampler – A shareable platter of ceviche, tuna tartare, and shrimp cocktail built for beachside toasts.
• Lionfish Ceviche – Zesty, sustainable, and brightened with local citrus.
• Coconut Shrimp – Golden-fried and paired with tangy pineapple chutney.
• Caribbean Lobster Tail – Butter-basted tail finished with garlic herb sauce and island vegetables.
• Catch of the Day – Wahoo, mahi-mahi, or red snapper prepared grilled, pan-seared, or creole style.

Land & Garden Favorites

• Tenderloin “Barefoot” – Certified Angus beef fillet with truffle demi-glace and roasted potatoes.
• Herb-Roasted Chicken – Served with coconut rice, papaya relish, and thyme jus.
• Vegan Island Curry – Coconut-based curry loaded with root vegetables and plantains.
• Gourmet Salads – Crisp greens layered with tropical fruit, chevre, and toasted nuts.

Drinks & Pairings

Maitre d’ Luc curates an extensive global wine list with chilled whites and rosés ideal for the tropical climate. Craft cocktails riff on island classics—think passionfruit mojitos, rum punch with nutmeg, and barrel-aged old fashioneds. Ask for a pairing suggestion; the team delights in matching wines to the chef’s specials.

Reviews Snapshot

Travelers on Google and TripAdvisor praise the romantic setting, sunset timing, and friendly staff who anticipate needs without hovering. Guests highlight seafood cooked to perfection and photogenic plating. Some note that the open-air vibe can pick up nearby music, so plan for a lively soundtrack. Booking ahead keeps the wait short during high season.

Good to Know

• Location – L.G. Smith Boulevard 1, Oranjestad (minutes from downtown and the cruise terminal).
• Hours – Dinner nightly; last seating typically around 9:30 p.m.
• Dress Code – Resort-elegant: summer dresses, collared shirts, barefoot optional.
• Reservations – Essential, especially for front-row beach tables at sunset.
• Perfect For – Romantic dinners, proposal photo shoots, foodie travelers craving beach dining, and families celebrating milestones.

Why Visit

Barefoot Restaurant Aruba turns dinner into a memory: candlelit tables in the sand, ocean breezes, and a menu that celebrates the island’s freshest flavors. Claim your spot, sip a chilled wine, and savor Oranjestad’s most beloved toes-in-the-sand experience.