Finding St. John Lunch Spots is very hard in the day to day, because we have so many great dinner restaurants, not all of them serve lunch throughout the week. If you’re lucky enough to be here on Saturday or Sunday there are plenty of options with the delicious Brunches from Extra Virgin Bistro, Rhumblines, and Banana Deck. But during the week it can be tough to find great lunch while exploring Cruz Bay.
Below are our go-to’s for lunch:
Ocean Grill- St. John lunch spots on a day off are hard to decide on but we always agree on this one. Ocean grill has a fantastic menu and always features a delicious special or two. We really love sitting at their bar, having a delicious lunch and a glass of wine when there are no plans for the rest of the day.
Island Cork– In his new location at wharf side village, Paul Tsakeres has outdone himself. His St John lunch spot is a wine bar but he will be opening an additional space outside the wine shop to serve roast beef sandwiches and lobster rolls very soon. In the meantime he has fresh made Caprese Sandwiches, salads, and TO DIE FOR Italian sandwiches. You must stop by, grab a glass of wine and definitely try a sandwich while you’re on Saint John. (I’ve become a much too regular visitor for those sandwiches.)
Viva Cantina- Recently opened in Mongoose Junction, Viva Cantina is doing Mexican food right. (Should I even mention they do $5 tacos and margaritas on Tuesdays?) We can’t say enough about how great their fajitas are, combined with cold beers, giant margaritas and tacos for days. Their lunch menu is the same as their dinner menu and word hasn’t really gotten out yet about them being open for lunch so there’s always plenty of room for seats at the bar or a table on their deck. They also have a killer taco and tequila happy hour should your lunch be a late one.
Banana Deck- A solid favorite. Their salads are the best on Saint John and their burgers are fantastic but whats great is the laid back ambiance, and the beautiful view. You can sit up at the top and watch the boats in the harbor while sitting in the shade eating a crispy chicken salad and a chilled glass of wine. That sounds like a great vacation day to me!
Tap Room- Joe calls Tap Room The Cheers of St John but you’re always sure to find a solid mix of locals and tourists alike. Tap Room is located upstairs in Mongoose Junction in a temporary location (they had a terrible fire in their permanent location, which should be opening back up soon). Enjoy frosty local brews and really really really killer food. Chef Jeremy makes the best burger on Saint John, hands down. There are tons of other options too, wraps, salads, and great specials. While you’re there pop over and take a look at the progress on the renovation of the old space, it’s going to be a really amazing bar once it’s finished and we can’t wait!
North Shore Deli- Honorable Mention. It’s not a sit down lunch spot but you can’t talk St. John lunch without talking North Shore Deli. Also located in Mongoose Junction, this is our go to for boat day sandwiches and amazing sides. They have a grab and go section with some really great dips and snack foods and their sandwiches are large enough to share and really really good. They also do a really good breakfast, but be ware, the word is definitely out about North Shore Deli and they are usually very busy during peak hours!