Visitors should not miss the chance to try locals' favorite dishes, which include oxtail stew, Johnny Cakes (tasty little fried rolls), Jacks (fried fish), beef or fish patties, and the island's great traditional dish, crab and rice.

Saint Martin (the French side) and Sint Maarten (the Dutch side) share a rich culinary heritage, but their "national" dishes vary. On the Dutch side, the most popular and iconic dish is Conch and Dumplings. This hearty meal involves tenderized conch meat (a large sea snail) pressure-cooked with fluffy flour or cornmeal dumplings in a savory, herb-infused gravy. On the French side, the preferred delicacy is Callaloo Soup, a thick green soup made from callaloo (spinach-like greens), okra, pork, crab, and spices. Another ubiquitous snack found across the entire island is the Johnny Cake (or Journey Cake), a deep-fried dough that can be eaten plain or as a sandwich with ham and cheese. Freshly grilled seafood, particularly Red Snapper and Mahi-Mahi, is also a staple, often served with "rice and peas" and fried plantains, reflecting the island's status as a premier Caribbean gastronomic hub.