Food in Bermuda

Bermuda, a picturesque island paradise, is not only renowned for its pink-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs but also for its distinctive culinary offerings that mirror a blend of British, Caribbean, Portuguese, and African influences. Visitors to Bermuda can indulge in a variety of dishes that range from fresh seafood to hearty stews, all imbued with local flavors and traditions. As you plan your Bermuda getaway, prepare to treat your taste buds to an array of Bermudian specialties that are as much a part of the island's charm as its scenic beauty. Discover the must-try dishes and the unique culinary heritage that await you in Bermuda.

Bermudian Dishes

Fish Chowder

Fish chowder is a staple in Bermudian cuisine, reflecting the island's rich fishing traditions. This hearty soup is made with local fish, typically rockfish or snapper, and flavored with tomatoes, onions, potatoes, and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. A splash of black rum and a dash of sherry peppers sauce are essential to give this chowder its distinctive Bermudian character.

Bermuda Triangle Fish Cake

As an island nation, Bermuda naturally has a wealth of seafood dishes, and the Bermuda Triangle Fish Cake is a beloved example. Combining fresh fish with mashed potatoes, onions, and spices, these savory cakes are typically formed into triangles, pan-fried until golden brown, and served with a zesty tartar sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon.

Peas and Rice

Peas and rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish often found accompanying meals in Bermuda. Pigeon peas are simmered with rice and seasoned with thyme, garlic, and sometimes a bit of salt pork or bacon for added depth. This dish is a comforting staple that showcases the island's love for legumes and grains.

Johnny Bread

Johnny Bread is a type of Bermudian fry bread that's a cross between a scone and cornbread. Made with flour, milk, sugar, and baking powder, it is kneaded into a dough, shaped into flat cakes, and fried in a pan until it's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's commonly enjoyed with butter, honey, or jams.

Shark Hash

Shark hash is a traditional Bermudian dish that utilizes local shark meat. The shark is boiled until tender, then sautéed with onions, peppers, and a variety of spices. It's often served on a sandwich or with rice, and is a true taste of Bermudian resourcefulness and culinary tradition.

Spiny Lobster

From September to March, spiny lobster season is in full swing in Bermuda, and it's a must-try for seafood lovers. Grilled, broiled, or steamed, spiny lobster is enjoyed for its sweet, succulent meat, and is often served with melted butter and a squeeze of lemon.

Codfish and Potatoes

Traditionally eaten on Sundays, codfish and potatoes is a Bermudian breakfast favorite. Salted cod is soaked overnight to remove excess salt, then boiled and served with boiled potatoes, avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and a tangy sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Bermudian Desserts

Banana Bread

Bananas are plentiful in Bermuda, and banana bread is a favorite way to use them. This moist, sweet bread is often laced with local nuts and spices, and is a comforting treat at any time of the day.

Bermuda Rum Cake

The famous Bermuda Rum Cake is a true island delicacy, known for its dense texture and rich flavor infused with local rum. Often glazed with more rum after baking, this cake is a potent and popular souvenir for visitors.

Loquat Jam

Loquats grow abundantly in Bermuda and are transformed into a deliciously sweet and tangy jam. Spread on toast or used as a filling for pastries, loquat jam is a unique taste of the island's natural bounty.

Cassava Pie

Cassava pie straddles the line between savory and sweet and is a traditional holiday dish in Bermuda. Made from grated cassava, chicken, eggs, and sugar, this unusual pie is layered like lasagna and baked until firm. It's a unique Bermudian twist on pie that visitors should not miss.

Bermudian Fruit Cake

Rich in dried fruit and nuts, and often soaked in rum or brandy, Bermudian fruit cake is a dense, moist, and deeply flavorful dessert typically reserved for special occasions, especially Christmas and weddings.