St.Martin – St.Maarten: Small Group, Culinary Food Tour

Explore the vibrant culinary scene of St. Martin – St. Maarten on a small group food tour. This 5-hour journey takes you through a delightful sampling of local specialties, from refreshing iced-lemongrass tea to traditional Johnny "Journey" cake. Discover the rich cultural heritage of each dish as you indulge in Dutch cheese, French cuisine, and a rum tasting at a renowned distillery. Whether you’re a foodie or simply seeking an authentic island experience, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.

Key Points

• A small group culinary food tour that accommodates up to 6 guests and features diverse food highlights with a 100% recommendation rate.
• The 5-hour tour includes hotel/port pickup and a variety of local culinary experiences, such as homemade iced-lemongrass tea, traditional Johnny "Journey" cake, and rum tasting.
• The tour offers a Dutch cheese and wine tasting experience and a French lunch served with a glass of wine or soda.
• Rated 4.8/5 by travelers and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Pickup is available from Philipsburg and Oyster Pond hotels at 9 am, with the meeting point at Dock Maarten, a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal.

Overview of the Tour

The St. Martin – St. Maarten Culinary Food Tour is a small group experience for up to 6 guests.

The 5-hour tour includes hotel/port pickup and diverse food highlights. Travelers rave about the 100% recommendation rate and 4.8/5 rating.

The tour features homemade iced-lemongrass tea, Johnny "Journey" cake, rum tasting, Dutch cheese and wine, and a French lunch. Bottled water, coffee/tea, and snacks are also provided.

Pickup is at 9 am from Philipsburg and Oyster Pond hotels. The meeting point is Dock Maarten, a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Culinary Highlights

Travelers on the St. Martin – St. Maarten Culinary Food Tour can look forward to a delightful array of local culinary delights.

They’ll start with a refreshing homemade iced-lemongrass tea before sampling the traditional Johnny "Journey" cake.

The highlight is a rum tasting at the Guavaberry Colombier Distillery, where they’ll learn about the island’s unique rum heritage.

Next, they’ll indulge in a Dutch cheese and wine tasting, followed by a French lunch with a glass of wine or soda.

A delightful Dutch cheese and wine tasting, followed by a French lunch with a glass of wine or soda.

Throughout the tour, they’ll also enjoy bottled water, coffee/tea, and homemade banana bread snacks.

Homemade Iced-Lemongrass Tea

Visitors on the culinary tour begin with a refreshing homemade iced-lemongrass tea.

The fragrant tea is brewed fresh using local lemongrass, then chilled and served over ice. The zesty citrus notes and subtle sweetness of the lemongrass create a rejuvenating start to the day’s culinary exploration.

Guests can sip the refreshing beverage while learning about the cultural significance of lemongrass in Caribbean cuisine.

This traditional iced tea provides a delightful introduction to the diverse flavors that await throughout the food tour of St. Martin and St. Maarten.

Johnny "Journey" Cake

After sipping the refreshing homemade iced-lemongrass tea, guests move on to sample the traditional Caribbean Johnny "Journey" cake.

This dense, golden-brown bread has a unique flavor, often made with cornmeal, flour, and milk. The guides explain the name originates from the cake’s ability to sustain travelers on long journeys.

Guests enjoy this filling snack, learning about its history and cultural significance. The sweet, crumbly texture and warming spices of the Johnny "Journey" cake provide a satisfying taste of local cuisine on the culinary adventure.

Rum Tasting at Guavaberry Colombier Distillery

After sampling the traditional Johnny "Journey" cake, guests are then taken to the Guavaberry Colombier Distillery for a rum tasting.

The distillery is known for its signature guavaberry rum, a local specialty infused with the island’s native guavaberries.

During the tasting, guests learn about the distilling process and the history of this unique spirit.

They’ll have the opportunity to sample different varieties and flavors, gaining a deeper appreciation for the island’s rum-making traditions.

The tasting provides a delightful interlude before transitioning to the next culinary stop on the tour.

Dutch Cheese & Wine Tasting

The tour then treats guests to a delightful Dutch cheese and wine tasting.

Nestled in a charming shop, guests sample an array of artisanal Dutch cheeses, each with its unique flavor profile. The knowledgeable staff guide participants through the tasting, sharing insights into the cheese-making process and the history behind these beloved delicacies.

Paired with a selection of local wines, the experience allows guests to savor the harmonious balance of flavors.

This culture not only delights the palate but also deepens the understanding of the island’s culinary traditions.

French Lunch Experience

Next, the tour group indulges in a delectable French lunch. They savor a single course of authentic French cuisine, accompanied by a glass of wine or soda.

The meal showcases the island’s French culinary influences, providing a true taste of the local culture. The setting is intimate, allowing guests to fully enjoy the experience.

Paired with the stunning views, the French lunch is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to sample the rich flavors and gastronomic delights that make St. Martin-St. Maarten a premier culinary destination.

Pickup and Meeting Details

To ensure a convenient start to the tour, the organizers offer hotel and port pickup options for guests.

Pickup is available from hotels in Philipsburg and Oyster Pond at 9 am local time, at no additional cost. For guests requiring pickup from other locations, an extra fee may apply.

The meeting point is Dock Maarten, a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal. Parking is available nearby, with the first hour costing $2.00 and each additional hour costing $1.00.

This thoughtful arrangement allows participants to begin their culinary journey with ease and comfort.

Ask Away

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code. Guests are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for light walking. Dressing in layers is recommended to account for varying temperatures throughout the culinary experience.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions Accommodated?

The tour accommodates dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request. Guests with specific dietary needs should let the tour operator know in advance to ensure their culinary experience is tailored to their requirements.

Can I Purchase Additional Food/Drinks During the Tour?

Yes, additional food and drinks can be purchased during the tour. The tour includes bottled water, coffee/tea, and snacks, but guests are free to buy extra items from the vendors visited along the way.

Is the Tour Guide Available for Tips or Gratuity?

The tour guide is available for tips or gratuity. Travelers can reward the guide for providing an excellent culinary experience and sharing their knowledge about the island’s history and culture.

Is the Tour Route Accessible for Guests With Mobility Issues?

The tour route is not wheelchair accessible as stated in the overview. However, it mentions the tour is stroller accessible, and infant seats are available, indicating it may accommodate some mobility needs with assistance.

Final Words

Enjoy the vibrant flavors of St. Martin – St. Maarten on this 5-hour culinary food tour. Savor traditional Johnny "Journey" cake, indulge in rum tasting, and enjoy Dutch cheese, wine, and a French lunch. With convenient hotel or port pickup, this small group experience offers a hassle-free adventure into the island’s rich cultural heritage.