NORTHWEST COAST. Aqua Grill is a contemporary restaurant with an open kitchen and the island's largest raw bar. Start with oysters or clams on the half shell, seared tuna sashimi or ceviche. Seafood is the name of the game here, and you can choose virtually any preparation: fried, grilled over a wood fire, broiled, poached, stuffed and baked...the list goes on. The cioppino is particularly tasty, but if you're not a seafood eater, there are also a handful of other choices (steak and pasta, mostly). There's an array of specialty coffee drinks which will make a nice, light ending to your meal, but the delectable desserts are all made in-house.

SAN NICOLAS. It's off the beaten path, but the Astoria Hotel restaurant is well worth a visit. Although the dining room is air conditioned, for a romantic dinner with your sweetie you should opt for dinner on the candlelit terrace. The menu is American-Continental: dinner features steaks, fresh seafood and a fabulous rack of lamb. Sunday brunch is an amazing all-you-can-eat affair, with a bounty of fresh fruits, omelettes, baked goods and more. The staff is knowledgeable and accommodating, ensuring that a meal here will be one of your better dining experiences on Aruba.

NORTHWEST COAST. This seafood stop is a must for visitors and locals. The nautically decorated dining room complements the bill of fare. Succulent lobster Thermidor, flaky barracuda and a delicious crabmeat cocktail are special favorites. Those preferring turf to surf will be pleased with the pork cutlets served with sausage, sauerkraut and potatoes, or the juicy beef tenderloin. Buccaneer does not accept reservations, so if you want a coveted seat next to the 5000-gallon aquarium, arrive early!

GREATER ORANJESTAD. The DeliFrance chain is well known around Europe and Asia for its fresh sandwiches, light snacks and delicious desserts. A popular breakfast spot, the café plies customers with eggs cooked to order, freshly squeezed juice, Costa Rican coffee, miniature Dutch pancakes and a host of baked goods. At lunch there's a wide variety of tasty sandwiches and salads. Follow up with a rich éclair or a flaky fruit-filled pastry!

GREATER ORANJESTAD. This little Dutch bar & bistro has a great view and a hip European waitstaff. Stop for a cup of coffee as you watch the boats in the harbor or savor an imported beer at the bar. Lunches consist of pita pockets stuffed full of salmon, shrimp or crab salad, or sliced beef. Some opt for a lighter snack of sliced sausages and cheese. For dinner, try the Dutch platter that features glazed pork tenderloin ­ it is succulent and delicious.