Curaçao, the vibrant Caribbean gem, is not only known for its colorful buildings, stunning beaches, and rich history, but also its incredible street food—let’s eat! 😋
Pastechi
A deep-fried staple, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, pastechi comes filled with a variety of fillings.
Stoba
Slow-cooked stew made with tender meats like goat, beef, or chicken, simmered with vegetables and local spices. Elite comfort food that you can find at any local restaurant.
Funchi
Typically paired with stoba, funchi is a side dish made from cornmeal. It’s similar to cuscuz from Cabo Verde.
Tutu
Tutu is a traditional dish from Curaçao, made with mashed black-eyed peas, cornmeal, and sugar, often served alongside stews or fried fish for a flavorful, comforting meal.
Grilled Fish and Fried Fish Platters
These dishes usually feature fresh, local fish like snapper, barracuda, or kingfish, cooked to perfection.
Kroket
Crispy, deep-fried outer shell filled with savory fillings like beef, chicken, cheese, or seafood.
Arepas di Pampuna
Curaçao does arepas a bit differently, its more like a pancake—pumpkin pancakes with raisins—yum 😋. These are probably my favorite snack while I was on the island, and you can get them from the old market.
Where to Eat
Food Trucks (Punda and Otrobanda)
Food trucks are dotted through town and serve a variety of local favorites like pastechi, fried fish, and tropical juices, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city. I loved getting a pastechi and soursop juice in the mornings.
Plasa Bieu (Old Market)
Located in Punda, this open-air market offers traditional local foods. Here you’ll find fresh fish, stews, arepas di pampuna, and yuana stoba (iguana stew)
Playa Piskado
A beachside spot where you can snorkel with sea turtles. Come on Sundays to enjoy freshly grilled/fried fish!
Curaçao Night Markets (on Fridays)
Held across the island, these markets offer a lively mix of street food, live music, and local products on Friday nights. The night starts off with fireworks right on the water.
