For a real dinner out:

Morgan's Mango. One of my favorite dinner spots in Cruz Bay. Open air, buzzing atmosphere, and a menu that draws from Cuban, Jamaican, Haitian, and Puerto Rican influences. The lobster nights (Tuesday and Saturday) are a must. Great cocktails, great energy.

Extra Virgin Bistro. If you want one really special dinner, this is it. Mediterranean inspired with fresh caught local fish and homemade pasta. The mushroom pappardelle is legendary. Reservations recommended, they fill up fast and are closed Mondays.

The Terrace. Elegant without being stuffy. Beautiful open-air setting with a refined menu. This is the "celebrating something" dinner.

La Tapa. Spanish-Caribbean small plates and serious wine. Perfect for sunset cocktails and sharing a few plates. Book ahead.

Casual and crowd favorites:

Longboard. My post-beach go to. Caribbean coastal cantina with seriously fresh poke bowls, ceviche, creative cocktails, and the best ahi tuna on the island. Happy hour from 2-4pm is great value. No reservations, so get there early.

The Windmill Bar. Hands down the best sunset views on St. John. Casual, relaxed, great for a drink as the sun drops behind the hills. Great live music. Don't miss this one.

The Backbar. A new add to favorite list. Solid, generous, reliable. From lunch to dinner, great burger, latin influenced food and sushi at nights.

Ocean 362. Fresh seafood with great views. A solid choice any night.

STJ Speakeasy. Cruz Bay's open secret. Great atmosphere, excellent food, worth seeking out.

Local eats, don't skip these:

Uncle Joe's BBQ (across from the post office) BBQ ribs and chicken with rotating sides. The sauce is a secret, and it's earned that status. Locals and regulars swear by it.

The Roti King (red food truck, Lumberyard parking lot) Abdue Hill has been perfecting his roti for decades, and you'll taste the difference. Chicken roti, salt fish paté, johnnycakes, all incredible and insanely good value. One of the best meals on the island, period.

Ms. Marie's Fried Chicken (hidden gem, order by 11:30am) She runs out early. This is not a drill. Show up before noon, order the fried chicken, and be prepared to wonder why you ever ate anywhere else. This is a true local institution.