Nos Clubhuis — A Local Hangout With Ocean Views & Lively Vibe
Nestled above the Hadicurari Pier along J.E. Irausquin Boulevard between Moomba Beach and the Marriott Surf Club, Nos Clubhuis (Dutch for “Our Clubhouse”) offers more than just a place to eat—it’s a seaside gathering point where locals and visitors come together for food, drinks, music, and sunset views. 

🌊 Atmosphere & Location
One of Nos Clubhuis’s greatest draws is its location right on the fishing center (centro di pesca), where local fishermen bring in their catch daily. Guests can enjoy panoramic views over the sea, boats, and the fishing pier, making it a scenic spot—especially at sunset. The restaurant is open and casual, with open-air seating and a bar upstairs that captures the breezes and helps maintain an informal, relaxed island feel.   Walk-ins are accepted—reservations aren’t required (except for larger groups)—which suits the spontaneous nature of beachside dining. 

🍴 Food & Signature Dishes
Nos Clubhuis emphasizes authentic Aruban and seafood fare, with a menu leaning on fresh catches and local flavors. Typical menu staples include grilled fish platters, daily catch specials, and seafood dishes that tap into the local fishing culture. 

One well-cited offering is a platter (around $15) that combines grilled fish steak, chicken saté, ribs, fries, and salad—giving diners a variety in one meal.  Happy hour and BBQ fish promotions are also part of their rotation. 
However, reviews are mixed: some diners loved the fish and fried snapper, calling the food “excellent,” while others felt certain items (like grouper tacos or sandwiches) didn’t match the price or ambiance.
One visitor on OpenTable noted that their hamburger was “so-so” and they had to return fish and chips twice to the kitchen, though they received a discount in response. TripAdvisor reviewers generally label Nos Clubhuis as serving “good, not great bar food” with dishes like the grouper sandwich being one of the more popular picks. 

👍 Pros & Considerations
Strengths:

• Stunning coastal views and sunset ambiance make dining here a scenic experience. 
• Authentic local vibe: fishing pier backdrop, local catch specials, and open-air setting. 
• Multiple happy hour periods and drink specials make it a strong spot for casual socializing. 
• Friendly staff and lively bar energy are frequently mentioned. 

Things to Watch:

• The food consistency seems to vary—some dishes get high praise, others receive criticism for not delivering expected flavor or value. 
• The ambiance, with music and bar energy, can make it louder, which might not suit diners seeking quiet conversation. 
• During peak times, seating fills up fast, and service may slow down slightly. 
• Some reviews suggest that for certain menu items, the flavor-to-price ratio may be less competitive compared to quieter, more upscale spots. 

📝 Final Thoughts
Nos Clubhuis is not a fine-dining destination—it’s a beachside clubhouse with character, good drinks, atmosphere, and occasionally great fish. If you're looking to soak in ocean views, enjoy local fishermen culture, and unwind with friends, it delivers strong on ambiance.

But approach the menu with relaxed expectations: some items shine, others are average—but overall, many guests return for the combination of sunset, social vibe, and local flavor. If you time your visit for sunset or happy hour, you’ll likely get the best of what Nos Clubhuis has to offer.

Gostoso Restaurant — Portuguese & Aruban Flavors With Heart
Tucked away at Caya Ing. Roland H. Lacle 12 in Oranjestad, Gostoso—which means “tasty” or “delicious” in Portuguese—brings a warm fusion of Portuguese, Aruban, and international cuisine to Aruba’s dining scene. With a cozy atmosphere, attentive service, and bold flavors, it’s quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. 

🍽️ Cuisine & Menu Highlights
The menu at Gostoso offers varied and well-executed options, making it a strong pick whether you’re craving seafood, meat, or something a little adventurous. Some of the signature dishes include:

• Seafood Medley: Lobster, clams, mussels, shrimps, scallops, calamari & grouper in a saffron-coconut sauce. This dish stands out for its generous portion, freshness, and the way the coconut-saffron sauce anchors the flavor.
• Espetada Portuguese Style: NY strip loin kebab marinated with garlic, bay leaves, red wine and sea salt. Served with choice of mushrooms demi-glace or green pepper corn sauce. Rich, satisfying, and flavorful. 
• Stewed Goat: A favorite among patrons who enjoy hearty, slow-cooked dishes. Tender, well-spiced, and with good sides like white rice, plantains and vegetables. It feels comforting and authentic. 
• Shrimp Sushi Roll Wrapped in Plantain: An inventive twist combining some fusion flair. The plan­ta­in wrap adds texture and sweetness that complements the shrimp and sauce well. 

Desserts like Tres Leches and Quesillo di Coco are also frequently praised—homemade treats that round out a meal with gentle sweetness. 

🏡 Atmosphere & Service
Gostoso’s ambiance is one of its strongest assets. It has a warm, unpretentious vibe, with eclectic décor that feels personal rather than generic. Guests often comment on being treated like family and sensing the owner/chef’s pride in the food.  Service is friendly, attentive, and relaxed. It aligns with what many call “island time”—the pace is slower, allowing diners to enjoy their meal without feeling rushed. For those seeking fast dining, it may not be ideal, but for a relaxing evening, it hits the mark.  Outdoor patio seating is charming, though some evenings can fill up fast. Indoor seating is cozy and more shaded, especially if you're looking for comfort away from the sun or wind.

✅ Pros & Considerations
Pros:

• Strong flavor combinations, well-seasoned, with good use of Portuguese and Aruban culinary influences. 
• Excellent service, where staff (and the owner) engage with guests, sharing specials and ensuring satisfaction. 
• A menu that balances classics and innovation, with seafood, steaks, and more adventurous fusion offerings. 
• Great value for quality—while not budget fast food, many feel the cost matches the food, ambiance, and service. 

Considerations:

• Wait times: Because the place is small and popular, peak times can be busy. 
• Pace: If you’re in a hurry, the relaxed pace might feel slow. It’s more about savoring the experience. 
• Pricing: Though value is generally good, some dishes are pricier, particularly for visitors comparing with more casual spots. 

📍 Practical Info

• Location: Caya Ing. Roland H. Lacle 12, Oranjestad, Aruba. 
• Hours:
  – Tuesday-Friday: Lunch 12:00-3:00 PM; Dinner 6:00-10:00 PM.
  – Saturday & Sunday: Lunch 12:00-4:00 PM; Dinner starting ~6:30 PM. 
• Reservation advice: Seats inside are limited—booking ahead is smart, especially if you prefer indoor dining. 

⭐ Final Verdict
Gostoso Restaurant is a standout option for anyone who wants more than just tourist-fare in Aruba. Its blend of Portuguese and Aruban flavors, warm hospitality, and a menu filled with thoughtful choices make it ideal for a memorable meal. For relaxed dinners, special occasions, or just when you want something delicious and authentic, Gostoso delivers. Just be ready to go with the flow and enjoy the moment.

Nos Clubhuis — A Local Hangout With Ocean Views & Lively Vibe
Nestled above the Hadicurari Pier along J.E. Irausquin Boulevard between Moomba Beach and the Marriott Surf Club, Nos Clubhuis (Dutch for “Our Clubhouse”) offers more than just a place to eat—it’s a seaside gathering point where locals and visitors come together for food, drinks, music, and sunset views. 

🌊 Atmosphere & Location
One of Nos Clubhuis’s greatest draws is its location right on the fishing center (centro di pesca), where local fishermen bring in their catch daily. Guests can enjoy panoramic views over the sea, boats, and the fishing pier, making it a scenic spot—especially at sunset. The restaurant is open and casual, with open-air seating and a bar upstairs that captures the breezes and helps maintain an informal, relaxed island feel.   Walk-ins are accepted—reservations aren’t required (except for larger groups)—which suits the spontaneous nature of beachside dining.

🍴 Food & Signature Dishes
Nos Clubhuis emphasizes authentic Aruban and seafood fare, with a menu leaning on fresh catches and local flavors. Typical menu staples include grilled fish platters, daily catch specials, and seafood dishes that tap into the local fishing culture.  One well-cited offering is a platter (around $15) that combines grilled fish steak, chicken saté, ribs, fries, and salad—giving diners a variety in one meal. Happy hour and BBQ fish promotions are also part of their rotation. 

However, reviews are mixed: some diners loved the fish and fried snapper, calling the food “excellent,” while others felt certain items (like grouper tacos or sandwiches) didn’t match the price or ambiance. 
One visitor on OpenTable noted that their hamburger was “so-so” and they had to return fish and chips twice to the kitchen, though they received a discount in response. TripAdvisor reviewers generally label Nos Clubhuis as serving “good, not great bar food” with dishes like the grouper sandwich being one of the more popular picks.

👍 Pros & Considerations
Strengths:

• Stunning coastal views and sunset ambiance make dining here a scenic experience. 
• Authentic local vibe: fishing pier backdrop, local catch specials, and open-air setting. 
• Multiple happy hour periods and drink specials make it a strong spot for casual socializing. 
• Friendly staff and lively bar energy are frequently mentioned.

Things to Watch:

• The food consistency seems to vary—some dishes get high praise, others receive criticism for not delivering expected flavor or value. 
• The ambiance, with music and bar energy, can make it louder, which might not suit diners seeking quiet conversation. 
• During peak times, seating fills up fast, and service may slow down slightly. 
• Some reviews suggest that for certain menu items, the flavor-to-price ratio may be less competitive compared to quieter, more upscale spots.

📝 Final Thoughts
Nos Clubhuis is not a fine-dining destination—it’s a beachside clubhouse with character, good drinks, atmosphere, and occasionally great fish. If you're looking to soak in ocean views, enjoy local fishermen culture, and unwind with friends, it delivers strong on ambiance.  But approach the menu with relaxed expectations: some items shine, others are average—but overall, many guests return for the combination of sunset, social vibe, and local flavor. If you time your visit for sunset or happy hour, you’ll likely get the best of what Nos Clubhuis has to offer.

CocoPlum Restaurant – Local Flavor and Friendly Vibes in Oranjestad
If you're walking down Caya G.F. Betico Croes in downtown Oranjestad and looking for a spot that balances local, homey flavor with a casual setting, CocoPlum Restaurant is a solid pick. Known to locals as “CocoPlum” or “Cocoplum,” this cozy eatery has built up quite a reputation for authentic Aruban dishes, reasonable prices, and warm service. 

🍽️ Cuisine & Signature Dishes
CocoPlum features a menu that leans heavily into Aruban and Caribbean-influenced fare, with a mix of fresh seafood, daily specials, and locally inspired items.

Popular menu highlights include:

• Red snapper specials — patrons often praise the freshly cooked fish with local seasoning. 
• Local soups and stews, daily specials that change, giving you a chance to try something seasonal or less standard. 
• Sandwiches and lighter fare for lunch — there are paninis, chicken sandwiches, and sides that are often mentioned by visitors looking for something simple and fresh.
• Fresh fruit juices — a nice touch, especially in Aruba’s climate, giving a refreshing complement to the savory. 

While many come here for lunch and its value offerings, the restaurant also offers dinners (especially on certain days) — though dinner options are more limited and by reservation in some cases. 

🌿 Atmosphere & Service
One of CocoPlum’s strongest assets is its atmosphere. It has a relaxed, unpretentious feel, with both indoor and outdoor seating. Given its downtown location, it’s convenient whether you're shopping, sightseeing, or just want an easy meal without resort-style formality.  The service tends to get consistent praise: friendly, attentive, and welcoming. Guests mention being greeted warmly, staff being helpful with menu suggestions, and generally feeling at home. Dinner (when served) is quieter, offering a more relaxed pace. 

💵 Value & Practical Info

• Price point: $$ or under $30 for many main dishes — good value for the quality and freshness offered. 
• Hours: Primarily breakfast and lunch (open around 10:15 AM), with dinners available Friday and Saturday or by reservation — check ahead. 
• Payment & Reservations: They accept credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) and cash. For dinner times or if you want a specific seating area, reservations are recommended. Street parking is available. 
• Ambiance: Casual dress, good for families, solo diners, or groups wanting a taste of local cuisine. Outdoor seating adds charm in good weather.

​
👍 Pros & Things to Keep in Mind
Pros:

• Authentic, home-style local food with good portion sizes.
• Fresh fruit drinks and seafood specials that feel “of the island.”
• Great service and welcoming staff.
• A downtown location that makes it easy to reach.
• Value: good food for the price.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Dinner options are more limited; timing matters.
• Some menu items may vary in availability (daily specials run out).
• Outdoor seating can be subject to weather, and during peak times the place can get busy.

🎯 Final Verdict
Overall, CocoPlum Restaurant is a gem for anyone looking to enjoy local Aruban food in a welcoming, casual setting. If you want something more formal or upscale, there are other places, but for genuine local flavor, freshness, friendly service, and good value, CocoPlum hits the mark. Great for lunch, casual dinners, or a break during your downtown exploring.

Gostoso Restaurant – A Warm Blend of Portuguese and Aruban Flavors
Tucked away at Caya Ing. Roland H. Lacle 12 in Oranjestad, Gostoso Restaurant feels like a hidden gem for visitors who want to stray off the usual tourist corridors and enjoy something more authentic and thoughtfully prepared.

🍽️ Cuisine & Signature Dishes
Gostoso specializes in a fusion of Portuguese and Aruban cuisine, reflecting the heritage of its owner-chef and the island’s multicultural food scene. 

Standout menu items include:

• Portuguese-style Bacalhau (salt cod) prepared with authenticity and care. 
• Seafood medley—often featuring grouper, shrimp, mussels, calamari, and sometimes lobster in a rich saffron-coconut sauce. 
• Stewed goat and Lenga Stoba (beef tongue stew)—two dishes that lean on bold Caribbean spice and slow cooking. 
• Guests also mention delicious and creative appetizers like a “shrimp sushi roll wrapped in plantain”, plus tasty desserts like tres leches and rich homemade flan. 

🌿 Atmosphere & Hospitality
Gostoso delivers more than just food—it offers a hospitality experience. Reviewers consistently mention that chef-owner José do Nascimento circulates among diners, answering questions, discussing special dishes, and making people feel genuinely welcomed and cared for. 
The dining room is cozy and relaxed, with eclectic yet tasteful decor, soft lighting, and an ambiance that encourages you to slow down, savor the meal, and enjoy conversation. 
Many guests describe the atmosphere as “being treated like family” or dining in someone’s home—and that warmth comes through in both service and food pacing. 

⭐ What Works Well

• Fresh, flavorful ingredients and thoughtful preparation. The seafood medley and stewed goat in particular receive repeated praise. 
• Strong sense of hospitality—many diners mention the owner’s presence and personal touch, which elevates the experience beyond simply eating out. 
• A feel-good alternative to tourist-loop dining. Gostoso gives diners a chance to slow down, enjoy a meal prepared with pride, and feel welcomed, rather than rushed.
• Good value for the quality. Guests note that the prices are reasonable given the care taken in preparation and presentation. 

⚠️ Things to Be Aware Of

• Seating fills up fast: Because the space is intimate and the restaurant well-liked, reservations are recommended—especially if you want indoor seating or a prime table. 
• Expect “island time” service pacing: Gostoso isn’t about fast meals or quick turnarounds. Service is relaxed, and part of the charm is lingering over courses—but if you're expecting rapid delivery, this might not be your spot. 
• Some plates are bold and richly flavored, which might surprise diners looking for very mild or minimalist fare. That said, most guests appreciate the depth of flavor once they’re prepared for it.

📝 Final ThoughtsIf you're in Aruba and looking for a dining experience that balances thoughtful cuisine with warm hospitality, Gostoso is well worth seeking out. This restaurant offers a memorable night out—not just a meal—with standout Portuguese-Aruban fusion plates, attentive service, and a relaxed ambiance that encourages you to unwind and enjoy the evening.

Tucked along Adriaan Lacle Boulevard in Oranjestad, Peanuts Restaurant is celebrated for its delicious and affordable take on authentic Aruban and Caribbean cuisine. Often praised for offering “the best peanut sauce on the island,” this local favorite blends hearty traditional dishes with comforting, homey presentation.

Cuisine & Signature Dishes
Peanuts shines with creole‑style dishes that feel both flavorful and authentic. Staple offerings include keshi yena (a gooey, cheese-filled casserole), balchi pisca (a hearty Aruban fish stew), and carni stoba served alongside staples like fried plantains, funchi, and pan bati—a soft, flat cornbread.
Diners also mention a standout Aruban seafood platter, and the generously topped, casserole-style meals—complete with melted Gouda slices—stand out for both their flavor and portion size.

Atmosphere & Value
Peanuts is beloved for delivering home-cooked taste in a casual, welcoming setting. Reviewers consistently highlight the restaurant’s reasonable pricing, where quality exceeds expectations. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere allows diners to enjoy their meals without feeling rushed, helping Peanuts stand out as a comfortable, local gem.  While not fine dining, its charm lies in authenticity. Be prepared for potentially longer wait times during busy hours—but the food and value make it worth it.

Pros & Cons at a Glance

Pros &Cons
Offerings rooted in local Aruban flavor (keshi yena, carni stoba) Occasional wait times due to popularity 
Generous, cheesy casserole-style portionsSome inconsistencies across dishes reported
Perceived strong value—pricing aligns well with dish quality.  No reservation system mentioned; walk-ins only
Warm, informal ambiance that prioritizes comfort over formality

Peanuts Restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of Aruban culinary tradition in a relaxed, affordable environment. With standout dishes like keshi yena, carni stoba, and generous seafood platters, this spot earns its reputation among locals and travelers as a flavorful, value-driven choice. Expect big flavors, hearty p ortions, and a welcoming atmosphere—but also be patient for a table during peak times. Whether it’s your first visit or fifth, Peanuts delivers a comforting and memorable dining experience.