Nassau

Get out of the hotel and try real Bahamaian fare. You can get greasy fish, sides and desserts at one of the holes-in-the-wall in downtown Nassau for around $8. On the upscale side, there's no shortage of waterside seafood restaurants where it would be easy to part with $50 for an excellent piece of lobster. Sbarros, McDonalds and Chinese restaurants are mixed in to satisfy the budget diner or someone who has had enough conch.

Midrange
$$
The Shoal Restaurant and Lounge
Nassau Street
323-4200
$10-$20
Sa-Th 7:30AM-11PM, Fri 7AM-7PM

If the tourist crowds are getting you down, take a taxi out to where the locals eat. Enjoy fish that falls off the bone, friendly service, and a dessert of guava

Top end
$$$
Cafe Matisse
Bank Lane
1-242-356-7012
$50-70
Tue-Sat noon-11 PM
behind Parliament Sq, off Bay St

Tucked away on a quiet lane, Matisse serves excellent Italian food with fresh local ingredients. Reservations recommended; try to get a seat in the delightful garden courtyard, which is shady by day and lit up at night. "Proper" dress no shorts or sandals required for dinner.