Veni Mange

In this classic West Indian house loaded to the brim with Caribbean art, the best lunches in town are served. Rosemary (Roses) Hezekiah and her late sister, Allyson Hennessy, a Cordon Bleu–trained chef who was a local television celebrity, founded the restaurant. The inventive creole menu rotates frequently, but there's always an intriguing and delectable vegetarian option (Roses is vegetarian). This lively eatery is infused with West Indian taste, art, and enthusiasm. It's one of the greatest places in Port of Spain for traditional Trini food, serving classic Caribbean cuisine cooked with love.

Veni's callaloo, Trinidad's national cuisine, is widely regarded as one of the greatest on the island. The chip chip (a little local clam) drink is a restaurant rarity that is pleasantly peppery. The restaurant's hallmark dish, stewed oxtail with dumplings, isn't available every day, but if it is, it's worth ordering. Local artists and sports personalities frequent the bar area. This is the place to go if you just have time to visit one restaurant and want to have a true Trinidadian experience.

Location: 67a Ariapita Ave, Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago