By Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon
CJ Travel Editor
Turks and Caicos-bound? While you’re there it’d be downright rude not to sample the national brew — made in the tourism hub of Providenciales using imported hops and desalinated island water — especially at some of the island’s terrific restaurants. Whether you choose Turk’s Head Amber, Light or Lager (or the limited-edition Summer Wheat Ale or Stout) these are seven spots that are perfect for kicking back and enjoying a true taste of the TCI.
Da Conch Shack
Since everything’s cooked to order at this classic Provo bar and restaurant (on the beach in the Blue Hills neighborhood) you’ll likely wait at least half an hour before your conch finally shows up at your table on the sand. But a frosty Turk’s Head is a worthy distraction, best enjoyed with an Instagram-worthy sea-and-sand vista – and the promise of a heaping plate of the islands’ ubiquitous mollusk — ahead of you.
Grace Bay Club
At the beachfront Infiniti Bar at Grace Bay Club, the 90-foot long marble bar counter appears to meet the horizon. It’s a simply stunning sight.
Amanyara
Our favorite spot for sunset cocktails is this chic west-end Provo cloister known for its spare, Eastern-inspired aesthetic and well-heeled clientele. Its flawless and discreet service comes with a price tag that makes the resort one of the most expensive on island. But we consider the sublime experience of a sundowner on the bar terrace here priceless.
Porter’s Island Thyme
Six-square-mile Salt Cay’s claim to fame: a 12-student schoolhouse; stray donkeys who have the right of way; and Porter’s Island Thyme. This 19th-century salt raker’s cottage turned restaurant and bar is popular with both peace-seeking visitors and hardy islanders, who flock to catch up over “the coldest beer on island.”
Daniel’s Café
If you’re on Middle Caicos between January and March, the ocean-view deck at this casual beach bar and restaurant in Conch Bar is a great place to spot migrating whales – and to celebrate each sighting with a sip of island suds.
Garam Masala
Any lover of Indian food will tell you that a cold beer is the perfect accompaniment to spicy sub-continental cuisine. So head to this eatery in Provo’s Regent Village and pair a curry with a Turk’s Head. You can thank us later.
Las Brisas
About 20 minutes’ drive southwest of Provo’s Grace Bay is Chalk Sound, a captivating milky turquoise expanse unlike any other in the Caribbean. But don’t take our word for it. Head to Las Brisas, the water’s edge restaurant at Neptune Villas on the Sound’s bank, and see for yourself.