For an island that’s only 22 miles long, Bermuda packs a strong culinary punch (and rum punch, too). Renowned for its pink-sand beaches and maritime heritage, this stunning British Overseas Territory is often overlooked for its gastronomic culture, which seamlessly blends British, Caribbean, Portuguese and North American influences. Here are five of the island’s signature dishes and the best places to grab a bite or a sip.
Rum Cocktails
The rum swizzle isn’t merely a cocktail; it’s a cultural icon. Made from various citrus juices, such as lime and orange, Gosling’s black seal rum and a dash of grenadine or falernum (a syrupy liqueur that contains ginger, lime, almonds and spices), the cocktail is vigorously shaken or “swizzled.”
The Swizzle Inn, Bermuda’s oldest and most famous pub, proudly claims to have popularized the modern rendition of the drink. The pub is also the perfect spot to try Bermuda’s other famous drink, the dark ‘n stormy, crafted from just two main ingredients—Gosling’s black seal rum and ginger beer. Both drinks originated in the 19th and early 20th centuries when Bermuda experienced an influx of British sailors. Legend has it that the name dark ‘n stormy refers to the drink’s appearance, resembling storm clouds over the ocean. Most hotels in Bermuda also serve a version of these drinks.
Codfish Breakfast
The origins of Bermuda’s codfish breakfast are deeply rooted in colonialism, as salted cod was an important food of Europe’s Caribbean colonies. However, according to Michael Jarvis, archaeologist and Atlantic history professor at the University of Rochester and author of In the Eye of All Trade, Bermuda was fundamentally different from the West Indies in terms of slavery.
Jarvis says via email, “Not only is cod not naturally found anywhere near the island, but Bermuda never developed a plantation economy.” As a result, the early Caribbean reliance on Newfoundland and New England salt cod, which plantation owners would buy to feed their enslaved workforce cheaply, did not occur in Bermuda. “After the American Revolution, when Bermuda’s merchant fleet could not trade with the U.S., Bermuda shifted to trading with Canada, selling salt and taking salt cod in exchange,” says Jarvis. He believes the creation of Bermuda’s codfish breakfast likely arose a century after cod consumption became commonplace in the Caribbean.
The hearty dish is typically eaten at breakfast and is comprised of salted cod, bananas, avocado, onions and sometimes a hard-boiled egg. It’s often topped with a tomato or onion sauce, adding a tangy sweetness. Among the best places to try Bermuda’s codfish breakfast are Paraquet Restaurant, Divots and Temptations Café.
Fish Sandwich
Another quintessential Bermudian delicacy is the fish sandwich, often regarded as the island’s unofficial national dish. The sandwich features deep-fried fish, such as locally caught wahoo or snapper, generously topped with tartar sauce, coleslaw, lettuce and tomato. What sets it apart is the uniquely Bermudian twist of serving it between thick slices of toasted raisin bread.
Compared to other traditional dishes, the fish sandwich is a relatively recent addition to Bermuda’s culinary scene. Gaining popularity as a street food in the mid-20th century, it has since evolved into a beloved local staple. Sampling this island favorite is a must, and nearly every pub in Bermuda offers a rendition of the sandwich.
For an authentic experience, visit Art Mel’s Spicy Dicy, a cozy food shack in North Shore Village. Other popular locations to try Bermuda’s fish sandwich include White Horse Pub & Restaurant, Mama Angie’s Coffee Shop, Mamma Mia and Seaside Grill, which has two locations in Devonshire and Southampton.
Black Rum Cake
The tradition of black rum cake in Bermuda is heavily influenced by British Christmas puddings and Caribbean rum cakes, which are prevalent during the holiday season. Over time, Bermudians adapted the recipe to include Gosling’s black seal rum and locally sourced spices, resulting in a distinct treat that has become a holiday favorite. Bermuda Rum Cake Company sells traditional black rum cake and variations, such as swizzle rum cake and chocolate rum cake.
Fish Chowder
Bermuda’s fish chowder is a delicious and comforting dish that reflects the island’s maritime heritage and British culinary influence. Using locally available fresh fish in thick, stew-like chowders can be traced back to early settlers who brought European cooking techniques to the island. It is believed to have been invented in cauldrons placed above bonfires on the beaches of St. George’s. The dish is typically made with fish, fish stock, spices, tomatoes, onions, Gosling’s black seal rum, sherry peppers and simple root vegetables, among the few crops that could grow on the island. Wahoo’s Bistro serves a heartwarming version, while The Lobster Pot is another excellent spot to try this popular Bermudian dish.
Each of Bermuda’s signatures dishes offers something different, and collectively, they showcase the island’s ability to blend diverse traditions into a cohesive and flavorful culinary identity.
A version of this post originally appeared on Forbes.com.
