Lots of people will tell you what a great meal is, especially in the age of the foodie. But you know what it is — it’s one you remember long past dessert. Maybe it’s because of the view of the ocean, or the seasoning of the fish, or the impeccable service. It can happen at a beachside shack or a haute-cuisine culinary laboratory. Naturally, it’s often a combination of these factors. Our 2014 50 Best Restaurants guide aims to take you to places in the Caribbean where you won’t just have a great meal. You’ll have a memorable one.

Le Soleil, St Martin

Grand Case, St Martin is known as a culinary capital, and Le Soleil has risen to the top. It’s a simply perfect restaurant: a beautiful beach view, warm service and magnificent food combining the best of Alsace and the French Caribbean. The best meal we had anywhere in the Caribbean in 2014.