Some all-inclusive resorts are true destinations for food. And it’s now quite easy to find high-level gourmet food at an increasing number of Caribbean all-inclusives. But some are true standouts — with fine dining, famous chefs, a blend of cuisines and, in many cases, a new emphasis on local sourcing. These are our favorite all-inclusives for food for 2014.
Sandals LaSource Grenada
It’s the newest resort on this list, but it’s quickly earned the top spot for 2014, with simply sensational food across nine restaurants, including Butch’s Chophouse, a first for the Sandals brand. Crucially, the property is making a significant push to source its food locally.
Zoetry Agua Punta Cana — Dominican Republic
This property could best be described as a boutique-style all-inclusive, and the resort’s four restaurants are exceptional. Perhaps more importantly, you never need to make a reservation at any of them — truly a luxury at a Caribbean all-inclusive.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana — Dominican Republic
Returning to the Best All-Inclusives for Food list this year is the terrific Hard Rock, which has nine restaurants that are diverse but equally delightful. It’s big and brash, to be sure, but the Hard Rock delivers in the culinary department.
Grand Velas Riviera Maya – Mexico
This Riviera Maya institution helped redefine what people expect from all-inclusives when it comes to food. Grand Velas has eight restaurants, ranging from classic French to Asian, under the supervision of top Spanish Chefs Bruno Oteiza and Mikel Alonso.
Galley Bay — Antigua
Perhaps Antigua’s signature all-inclusive resort, this Elite Island Resorts property has four restaurants from fine dining to casual beachfront fare, all served with equal qualtiy and attention.
The Caves Negril — Jamaica
This Negril classic is part of the Island Outpost collection, which means it’s as good as it gets in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. The cuisine here emphasizes local sourcing and local flavors, meaning you get a real taste of Jamaica (not to mention unlimited servings of Blackwell Rum, made by Island Outpost founder Chris Blackwell). And yes, you can arrange dinner inside a cave.
Couples Swept Away — Jamaica
Another gem in bohemian negril, Couples Swept Away has a wide selection of restaurants, from the elegant Feathers restaurant to poolside Thai eatery Lemon Grass. All in all, it’s worth the trip just for the food.
Sivory Punta Cana — Dominican Republic
This Dominican Republic resort emphasizes what it calls “art cuisine,” and the minute you are served it’s easy to see why. From the Mediterranean Laveranda to the international Gourmond, Sivory raises the needle in a big way.
Spice Island Beach Resort — Grenada
With just 32 rooms, this Grenadian jewel is on the boutique side, but the food is world class, at both the property’s Sea and Surf Terrace and Bar and its flagship Oliver’s Restaurant, which beautifully emphasizes the richness of Grenadian cuisine.
Secrets Maroma Beach — Mexico
This Mexican Caribbean resort truly has it all — gourmet a la carte eateries, a buffet and casual fare to boot. And it also, thankfully, never requires a reservation, meaning you walk in and enjoy spectacular food from regions around the world.