2 Best Restaurants in Martinique

This marriage of French island funkiness and South Beach gloss is one-of-a-kind in Martinique. So is charismatic owner Guy Ferdinand, who has made this a destination restaurant in the north coast's tiny town of Carbet. Smack on the beach, it's an ideal stopover if you're visiting nearby St-Pierre. So remember to wear your swimsuit, kick off your shoes, and order the signature rum drink made with hibiscus and mint from the rum bar. You can lounge on one of the 60 coral rubber chaises, shaded by umbrellas, and be sprayed intermittently with a gentle, cool mist. The appetizers—blue marlin tartare or fried flying fish right from the Carbet shore—are delicious, as are main courses of fresh fish. There are lobster nights, and on Friday there are classical musicians. It's a mellow scene.

If you're looking for a seafront restaurant that specializes in conch and lobster, Obama’s is recommended. During lunchtime the alfresco terrace fills up mainly with French tourists supping on grilled lobster with either saltfish or black pudding or veggies, and a dessert. Aromas are drool-worthy with hints of lemon and melted butter. Main courses come with frites or rice, and some vegetables and greenery dressed with vinaigrette. There's plenty of Red Desperado (a local beer) and French rosé to wash it all down. The kitchen is across the street, as is the ice cream shop (with excellent tropical fruit flavors) and the Special Bar. Owner Patrick Henry put it together for his son who rocks it on weekends, with salsa on Friday nights. A 4-foot poster of Obama is the major work of art.