Lolo’s: A St. Martin Open-Air BBQ Spot for Authentic & Affordable Cuisines
Near the main town of St. Martin, away from luxury hotels and fancy seaside restaurants, St. Martin’s food retains its real meaning and is a true expression of the island’s heritage. For Hawaiians, the magic of food is also what happens at these famous Lolo’s. If you want to enjoy genuine Caribbean food without spending too much, you should come here.
What Exactly Is a Lolo?
The word “Lolo” is short for Locally Owned, Locally Operated, and it perfectly describes what these eateries represent: simple, homegrown operations that serve hearty, flavorful food to locals and tourists alike. Lolos are usually open-air setups with basic tables and chairs, often located just steps from the beach. There’s no fine china, no air conditioning, and no pretense, just the aroma of grilled meats, island spices, and charcoal smoke filling the air.
They’re especially common in St. Martin, where both the French and Dutch sides of the island have embraced this no-frills approach to dining. Lolos reflect the island’s cultural melting pot, blending Creole, Caribbean, African, and French influences on every plate. 🌴 Looking for more authentic eats? Don’t miss the irresistible fried Johnny cakes of St. Croix for another local culinary gem.
Why Lolos Are the Real Culinary Heart of St. Martin
While high-end restaurants cater to the tourist crowd, Lolos cater to the community. They serve the kind of food islanders eat at home, grilled ribs, fried plantains, rice and peas, fresh-caught fish, and stewed meats. It’s comfort food, made from scratch, and it hits every note of salty, sweet, smoky, and spicy.
Reasons to Try a Lolo:
- Authenticity: You’re getting real recipes, cooked by people who grew up with them.
- Affordability: Most full plates cost between $10–$20, with portions that could feed two.
- Atmosphere: There’s music in the background, the ocean in view, and a friendly, come-as-you-are vibe.
What’s on the Menu at a Lolo?
Menus at Lolos aren’t complicated. Most spots offer similar core dishes, but each has its own twist or house specialty.
Typical Mains:
- BBQ Ribs: Slow-cooked, tender, and lacquered in sweet or spicy glaze.
- Grilled Chicken: Marinated in local herbs and charred over open flames.
- Fried or Grilled Fish: Snapper and mahi-mahi are common, often caught fresh that morning.
- Lobster: Available in season, grilled to order with garlic butter or Creole sauce.
Popular Sides:
- Rice and Peas: A Caribbean classic with coconut milk and spices.
- Plantains: Usually fried until golden and sweet.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy and fresh, to balance out heavier flavors.
- Johnny Cakes: Fried dough balls with a crisp outside and soft center.
👨🍳 Want to recreate these flavors at home? Try this authentic coconut candy recipe from Aruba.
Sauces are where the personality of a Lolo really shines. Many make their own hot sauces with Scotch bonnets, mango, vinegar, or lime. Don’t be shy, ask to try them.
Where to Find the Best Lolos in St. Martin
Lolos aren’t a chain. They’re individual businesses, each with its own identity. That said, a few areas are known for having a high concentration of them.
Grand Case (French Side)
This is the unofficial capital of Lolo dining in St. Martin. Just off the beach, several Lolos line the main street, serving food late into the night. Favorites include:
- Sky’s the Limit – Known for its ribs and festive atmosphere.
- Talk of the Town – Popular with both tourists and locals for its grilled chicken and generous servings.
- Au Coin des Amis – A quieter spot with amazing homemade sauces.
Marigot Waterfront
Near the ferry terminal, you’ll find a cluster of Lolos that serve excellent lunches. Great for a midday break if you’re exploring the French side.
Dutch Side (Philipsburg & Simpson Bay)
They’re less common here but not absent. Ask locals or your hotel staff for recommendations—they usually know hidden gems not listed on tourist maps.
How to Order Like a Local
Ordering at a Lolo is easy, but knowing how to do it right makes the experience smoother:
- Go early for dinner: Some popular dishes run out by 7 p.m.
- Bring cash: Many Lolos don’t accept cards.
- Ask what’s fresh: Daily specials often depend on what came in from the docks that morning.
- Customize your plate: Mix proteins and sides for a “combo plate” if you’re hungry or sharing.
- Try the sauces: They’re usually house-made and give each Lolo its signature flavor.
An Authentic, Affordable Culinary Experience
Eating at a Lolo isn’t just about the food, it’s about connection. You’ll see families eating dinner, locals catching up over drinks, and travelers discovering something they didn’t know they were missing. There’s no dress code, no pressure, and no tourist markup.
For travelers looking to experience St. Martin beyond the beaches and boutiques, Lolos offer something rare: a taste of the island’s real culture, served hot off the grill.
Final Thoughts
Just eating in hotel restaurants in St. Martin is missing out on the spirit of the island. Lolos show us how islanders live every day. They’re inexpensive, genuine and unique. You can enjoy a plate of ribs, a grilled fish, a cold beer or a friendly conversation all at this place.
