Sunday July 06, 2008

Even at formal restaurants, Virgin Islanders go casual

Leave Black Tie Behind

Restaurants in the Virgin Islands range in style from roadside stands and beach bars to posh dining spots overlooking the sea. Although they are different, most restaurants in the Virgin Islands are consistently casual. In more elegant and formal dining spots, men should always wear a button-up shirt and slacks, and women should consider dressing in business casual. Skirts and dresses are never considered too formal. Less formal dining spots allow shorts and T-shirts, but bathing suits are rarely considered acceptable attire.

When dining on Virgin Gorda, procure reservations. Dining on other British Virgin Islands tends to be a bit more casual. Restaurants on Jost Van Dyke tend to be popular with the sailing set, offering travelers the chance to swap stories or just listen in, and on Anegada, only six to 10 restaurants are usually open at any given time of year.

Within the British Virgin Islands, don't be surprised if a 10 percent gratuity is added to your bill. This is a common practice, however, if the gratuity has not been added, in which case, you may tip your waiter or waitress accordingly. In the U.S. Virgin Islands, gratuities are between 10 and 15 percent, but the tip should reflect the quality of service.

Travelers looking for world class dining will be pleasantly surprised by Virgin Island fare. The region's restaurants cater to all types of visitors, from those interested in a casual bite to gourmands in search of a new taste experience.