The Anguilla Culinary Experience (ACE) returns for its fifth incarnation from May 13 to 17, packing five days of epicurean revelry into one of the Caribbean’s most secluded, ethereal islands.
If you haven’t yet had the opportunity to attend, ACE represents a real “who’s who” of Anguillian, Caribbean, and international flavour. Local chefs and ingredients (such as Anguilla’s famous spiny lobster) are put into the spotlight, serving up inspired plates at many of the island’s white sand beaches (there are 33 in total!) and 100+ restaurants.
As ACE is truly an island-wide celebration, it would be impossible to explore every single facet of this fabulous festival. Still, we’ll leave you with enough of the highlights to really whet your appetite:
● Wednesday, May 13: ACE Opening Night sets the tone at Karaya, a new restaurant on Shoal Bay West. Expect Mediterranean-inspired hors d’oeuvres, Anguillian rum and Clifton Estate spirits, and live music from Jenique Javois and Dennis Warrington.
● Friday, May 15: a true culinary “choose your own adventure”. Delight in a five-senses experience at Malliouhana (courtesy of Culinary Director Kerth Gumbs), charter a Champagne catamaran cruise with Calypso Charters, or experience the taste of the French-Caribbean at Jacala Beach Restaurant, as Chef Proprietor Alain Laurent unites with Meuley and Nathalie Le Sénéchal of Grands Vins de France Anguilla for a masterclass in fusion flavour.
● Saturday, May 16: eat like an Anguillian with a beach barbecue at the Anguilla Great House and the Final Course Dinner at Murder Mystery at Savi Beach Club, lovingly prepared by members of the Anguilla National Culinary Team, before heading off to Zemi Beach House for a rum tasting and multi-course dinner at Stone.
Tickets to ACE 2026 are still available. Open to the world, ACE is a true labour of love that puts the soul of this charming island on a plate.
You can learn more about the menu, featured talent, and event schedule at https://anguillaculinaryexperience.com/.
Where to Stay in Anguilla
From ultra-luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hideaways, Anguilla offers a collection of stays that perfectly complement its world-class culinary scene. Whether you’re planning your trip around beach-hopping lunches or sunset dinners, these properties put you close to the island’s best flavors.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Anguilla
Perched above two of the island’s most beautiful beaches, this expansive resort blends contemporary design with effortless Caribbean luxury. Spacious villas and oceanfront suites make it ideal for longer stays, while multiple on-site restaurants ensure you’re never far from exceptional dining. Its location on Meads Bay also places you within easy reach of some of Anguilla’s top beach bars and restaurants.
👉 Book your stay on Booking.com
Zemi Beach House, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Set along the powdery sands of Shoal Bay East, this boutique-style luxury resort offers a more intimate take on Anguilla hospitality. With a strong focus on wellness and design, it’s also home to one of the island’s standout spas. Dining here leans into local ingredients and Caribbean flavors—perfect for travelers exploring Anguilla through its cuisine.
👉 Check availability on Booking.com
Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club
A destination in its own right, Aurora offers a wide range of experiences—from championship golf to a working hydroponic farm supplying its restaurants. Spacious suites and beachfront villas make it a great choice for travelers who want both activity and indulgence, with multiple dining venues showcasing fresh, locally inspired cuisine.
👉 View rates on Booking.com
Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla
Often considered one of the Caribbean’s most iconic resorts, Cap Juluca is known for its striking white Moorish architecture and flawless stretch of Maundays Bay. Dining here is a highlight, with a mix of refined international cuisine and Caribbean influences—ideal for food-focused travelers seeking a truly elevated stay.
👉 Explore rooms on Booking.com
Malliouhana Resort Anguilla
One of Anguilla’s original luxury resorts, Malliouhana blends heritage with a fresh, modern feel. Its elevated clifftop position delivers sweeping views, while its culinary program—long regarded as one of the best on the island—makes it a natural fit for a food-inspired getaway.
👉 Book on Booking.com
Carimar Beach Club
For a more laid-back, villa-style stay, Carimar Beach Club offers spacious beachfront accommodations directly on Meads Bay. It’s a great option for travelers who want easy access to Anguilla’s celebrated beach restaurants while enjoying the flexibility of a more residential-style experience.
👉 Check deals on Booking.com
Tip: Anguilla’s boutique size means you’re never far from its top dining spots, but staying near Meads Bay or Shoal Bay East gives you the best access to the island’s most celebrated restaurants and beach bars.
