Jacqui O's BeachHouse: A Must-Do Dining Experience in Antigua Crabbe Hill/Love Beach
When our Antigua sailing crew anchored in Picart's Bay and washed up on the brown sugar shores of Crabbe Hill Beach to enjoy a meal on dry land, we had no idea just how much we would enjoy Jacqui O's BeachHouse.
But after two visits, several scrumptious courses, unforgettable interactions with the staff and owner, an impromptu dance party and a battle with a Herculean lobster named Conan, we were sure of one thing - owner Lance Leonhardt has succeeded in creating an establishment that is a must-do whether visiting Antigua by land or by sea.
Read our review of Jacqui O's BeachHouse to see why.
(This post is enjoyed best with your handheld device turned sideways)
The Cuisine
For starters, let's discuss the food - a mix of Spanish, Mediterranean and locally sourced Caribbean options expertly prepared by brilliant Head Chef, Miguel AlFaro Lopez.
We found nothing on his menu to be less than top-notch. Even a simple crudités basket took on a decadent presentation suited for royalty.
We dove into dishes like buffalo mozzarella served with smoked duck, savory salami, roast peppers and tomatoes; whole grilled snapper; lobster paella and tender lion fish filet dredged in a creamy curry sauce with equal gusto, savoring every flavorful morsel with a smile, a nod and a satisfied sigh.
Delivering plate after plate of mouth-watering delicacies
We dove into dishes like buffalo mozzarella served with smoked duck, savory salami, roast peppers and tomatoes; whole grilled snapper; lobster paella and tender lion fish filet dredged in a creamy curry sauce with equal gusto, savoring every flavorful morsel with a smile, a nod and a satisfied sigh.
A Dish Named Conan
When it did not seem possible for Chef Miguel to elevate this dining experience any further, he did just that with one simple word - Conan.
Conan was the name of that night's special dish - a behemoth of a Caribbean lobster cooked to a delicate perfection and topped with light, golden breadcrumbs.
Poseidon himself could not have delivered a more generous offering from the sea.
Massive, succulent and fit for two guests with monstrous appetites, it was the mother of all dishes in a sea of exceptional dining and a formidable opponent in the battle between man and food. Members of our party still give different versions of who won that battle!
The Staff
Vibrant, engaged and exceptionally professional, the crew at Jacqui O's took to heart their role in ensuring that we enjoyed our beachfront dining experience to the utmost.
Maybe that's why they call this Love Beach?
Whether assisting us with navigating through the menu, executing an elaborate presentation of the signature espresso martini or joining in on the jump up dance party (DJ'd by none other than owner Lance), this crew showed a refreshing joi de vie.
In the end, we had trouble agreeing on what we enjoyed more - the food or the staff.
In the end, we had trouble agreeing on what we enjoyed more - the food or the staff.
The Setting
Casually elegant. Whimsical. Airy. Beach haven. These are the first words that come to mind when we think back on the atmosphere at Jacqui O's.
Whether from a seat in the open-air dining room beside strings of starfish and baubles, a day lounger on the beach, a stool at the bar or a VIP seat at the private gazebo, any spot here gives front-row access to the sounds of Chill House music, the antics of the staff and the unforgettable sunset.
Last Impressions
Jacqui O's Beach House is truly a treasure for anyone in search of top-notch service, superb food and tropical ambience in Antigua - the island of sand, sun and sea.
A stop here should be on your must-do list whether visiting Anguilla by land or by sea.
Thanks to Lance, Chef Miguel and the restaurant crew at Jacqui O's - David (Zuki), Priscilla, Madeca, Vanessa, Dale and Darrion - for providing us with unforgettable experiences in paradise.