Where do chefs go when they visit the Cayman Islands? Naturally they sample the islands’ best restaurants, but they also love to get a sense of place and history, and often venture beyond the beach to enjoy some of Cayman’s most beloved places.
Pedro St. James
The glorious ocean view from the Great Lawn at the historic Pedro St. James is just one of the many treasures this unique site holds. The site of many significant historic moments, The Great House is the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands, and the “Birthplace of Democracy” in The Cayman Islands.
Built in 1780 with stone walls 18 inches thick, and standing three stories with sweeping verandas, large rooms and imported slate from England for its floors and roof, “Pedro’s Castle” was built by William Eden as a plantation that sat prominently amongst the “wattle and daub” dwellings nearby.
Over the years, the site has been used as a courthouse, jail, government assembly and even a hotel. It has survived Mother Nature’s wrath, a fire and continues to stand proudly as one of the country’s most beloved places.
In 1991, the Cayman Islands Government proclaimed it an historic site, and began work in consort with Canada’s Commonwealth Historic Resource Management to restore and interpret the site. Completed in 1996, it now attracts visitors who view its magnificent sunsets from its enviable perch atop the bluffs at Pedro Point and hosts weddings and many special events. It now also boasts Thatch and Barrel, a superb restaurant and bar.
Thatch and Barrel
Showcasing Cayman Spirits’ local craft rums and sea and farm to table fare, Thatch and Barrel is the only spot on the island to find 1780, a special unfiltered blend of rums distilled, aged, and bottled exclusively at Pedro’s Castle. It is blended in collaboration with an experienced rum blender who is a direct descendent of the original Eden family that built Pedro St. James.
Thatch and Barrel’s Caymanian-inspired menu features a variety of local specialities and dishes using fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and meats and of course, rum.
With indoor or dining al fresco, the warm service, and relaxed restaurant is one of the most picturesque and delicious spots on the island.
The Cayman Farmers' Market
Ask a local, and they will tell you that the best place to find local produce is t, located at The Cricket Square. Started by a collective of proud farmers who are always growing more, the Farmers' Market is at the root of Cayman’s impressive farm-table movement. Boasting local farmers, artists, makers and chefs, the many growers offer Cayman’s freshest local ingredients – from peppers, squash and tomatoes to lettuces, sugar cane and many different mango varieties. It is here you can find unusual vinegars, delicious baked good and seasoning peppers indigenous to the Cayman Islands.
Chefs flock to the market to collect the freshest produce and locals and visitors stop by for a fresh pressed juice or smoothie, baked goods and gifts.
The friendly, knowledgeable vendors are there Monday – Saturday offering 100% authentic Caymanian products.
