Bahamian Breakfast is not your usual eggs, bacon, or toast situation. The Bahamas decided to throw a wrench in our normal breakfast life by introducing things like fish stews, pig feet, and corned beef. Sounds strange, I know, and at first, I was quite skeptical, however now I can affirmatively say I’m a big fan of the saying, “Don’t knock it till you try it!”
One of the most exciting things about traveling is experiencing the food. You sometimes have to step out of your comfort zone, sometimes it’s terrible, but most of the time it’s quite exceptional! In this case, the latter will most likely be your experience!
Let’s get into it, if you’re going to dive into this culture, you have to dive into their breakfast, especially if it will be enjoyed after a night of too many rum cocktails! It’s salty, hearty, and will soak up all the unwanted leftover alcohol in your system.
First things first, with your breakfast you’ll usually have a choice of grits or Johnny Cake on the side. Let me get into these amazing side pieces. Grits are a relatively simple side, they are just a standard coarse corn kernel boiled in water and salt, think grainy mashed potatoes, a great option to add some consistency and girth to your soup. Johnny Cake deserves its own section, but I’m not going to leave the grits hanging. Johnnycake is as if a biscuit and cornbread had a baby. Think texture and shape of cornbread, but less grainy and with a biscut-esq flavor and top, with a touch of sweetness. It’s simply amazing on its own, with butter and jam enjoyed with coffee, or dipped in a soup! This is a 100% must-try treat! Let’s dive into the best Bahamian breakfast spots in Nassau! We also have suggested some standard breakfast options for those looking for more traditional eggs, bacon, etc.
Stew Fish/ Stew Conch
This is one of my favorites, made from a thick tomato base, still using the base of onions, celery, and potato. The fish is usually snapper/grouper, and probably battered & fried. The conch doesn’t come battered, just tenderized and absolutely delicious. Best enjoyed with some grits & Johnnycake with a twist of lime + hot pepper.
Boil Fish
As simple as it sounds, fish, usually grouper thrown in some broth with onions, celery, and potatoes. This is more of a savage choice in my opinion, but definitely the most healthy on the list.
Souse (Chicken / Mutton / Pig Feet / SheepTongue)
Souse is every Bahamians go-to breakfast of choice for a hangover cure. A lovely soup consisting of meat, as mentioned above, onion, potato, allspice, lots of lime, and hot pepper. This is a refreshing, mouthwatering, nose running experience, my personal favorite is the Chicken souse (bone-in!).
Grits & Tuna
Strange for breakfast, yes, but surprisingly enjoyable! This is literally tuna salad served next to a side of grits. Probably the most affordable and lowest-calorie count on the Bahamian Breakfast menu!
Corned beef & Grits “Fire Engine”
The Bahamian version of corned beef hash- basically some ground beef with hot pepper, tomato paste, and onion, served with some grits on the side. This is a staple in Bahamian culture and you will leave quite full!
Now that you’ve got the low down on the Bahamian Breakfast menu, it’s time to put your taste buds into action! There are tons of great local options for breakfast, and the best usually comes from a small food stand on the side of the road. But for those who want a little more guidance and an almost guaranteed great experience, I have provided a list of the best spots below. Enjoy, and share your feedback with us when you try!
Best Restaurants in Nassau for a Bahamian Breakfast
Bahamian Bistro
Bahamian Bistro is quickly becoming one of my favorite restaurants. Nestled just past downtown, this super colorful, fun spot always has all the vibes you want in your life for a fun brunch. They have 8 restaurants under one roof, offering an array of different breakfast options for you to choose from. If you’re looking for a fun brunch experience this is a great choice for you!
Nesbit’s
A local staple for Bahamian food. Nesbits is not your typical brunch environment, however, it has a great menu! My suggestion is to sit out on the patio, you’ll have an ocean view, and order the chicken souse with Johnnycake!
https://www.nesbittsrestaurant.com/menu.html
Cricket Club
Another staple for Bahamian food. The Cricket Club is located across from the fish fry, perched up offering a nice view of Arawak Cay. Sit outside and enjoy basically anything from this menu, it won’t disappoint!
https://www.bahamascricket.com/
Naughty Johnny’s
A combo of hip brunch spot and Bahamian staple! This is a great stop for a good brunch, conveniently located in Old Fort Bay. Stop by and check out any of their Bahamian breakfast items, you will be impressed!
https://naughtyjohnnysbahamas.com/
The One & Only Travellers Rest
Featured also in our Restaurants with a view post, The One & Only Travellers Rest has some amazing breakfast options, all to be enjoyed with a beautiful view! Take my word when I say this is the best chicken souse I have ever had! Travelers Rest is serving up breakfast on Saturdays and Sundays from 8 am-11 am, add this one to your Bahamas Bucketlist, you won’t be disappointed!
https://www.theoneandonlytravellers.com/
AMERICAN BREAKFASTS IN NASSAU
If you’re uninterested in diving into the Bahamian Breakfasts, there are a few options that serve up the standard American breakfast, or more classic breakfast options. Most of the restaurants above also serve up some version of eggs, pancakes, etc, however, they are more known for their traditional Bahamian Breakfast options. Below you will find some of my favorites for more traditional breakfasts!
Cafe Madeline in Bahamar
Serving up delicious items like Croque Monsieur, Avocado Toast, and Yogurt Parfaits, this is a great place to have a good coffee, pastry, and traditional egg breakfast. This is a little hidden spot in The Bahamar Hotel, open to the public and offering nice quaint cafe vibes.
Louis & Steen’s Market Orleans
A great stop for coffee and an array of breakfast options. My personal favorite is the breakfast sandwich with potatoes. This is a great little spot that has plenty of options for everyone in your group to enjoy. You just can’t go wrong at Louis & Steens!
Studio Cafe (weekends only 9-1 PM)
This is an excellent brunch spot on the weekends! You will have an array of options like omelets and french toast, and can enjoy them with bottomless mimosas and live music! This is one of my favorite brunch spots. It overlooks the ocean and is super small so I recommend making a reservation or going early.
