Rum Journal: In St Thomas, a Rum Bar With a View 

Sushi. Poke. Rum. The sign at the entrance makes a rather compelling case. But the biggest selling point at the US Virgin Islands’ newest rum bar, Sugarfin, sn’t any of those things. 

It’s the view. 

Here at the legendary Frenchman’s Reef in St Thomas, USVI, you’ll find one of the most spectacular, jaw-dropping views in the Caribbean, high above the sea on a cliffside overlooking the Charlotte Amalie waterfront. 

And yes, it is a proper rum bar. 

You’ll find about three dozen expressions here, from some rare stuff like Diplomatico Ambassador and Gosling’s Papa Seal to an array of Zacapa, Flor de Caña, Bacardi and Plantation. 

In a nice touch for neophytes, Sugarfin offers a selection of rum “flights” giving you the chance to taste your way through a series of Bacardis, Flor de Cañas or a regional journey across Jamaica, Guyana and Barbados. 

The Asian fusion fare has a nice grouping of sushi and poke (both salmon and tuna from the latter), both easy-to-share pairings for sugarcane spirits. 

There’s a large outdoor deck where you can sit and savor that breathtaking view — the sort of vista you just can’t take your eyes away from. At this resort, which recently reopened after years of reconstruction, this view is still the party piece, the crown jewel and one of the Caribbean’s most iconic shots.

And at night, when the hills of Charlotte Amalie light up, it’s even more beautiful. 

Best enjoyed with a glass of aged rum, neat. 

For more, visit the Westin Beach Resort St Thomas. 

— CJ