Lunch at Plasa Bieu

When you think of Caribbean cuisine, Curaçao may not be the first place that comes to mind. But this island offers a rich and diverse culinary tradition, and one of the best places to experience it is Plasa Bieu. Located in Punda, right by the Waaigat, Plasa Bieu is also known as Marshe Bieu or Old Market. The building used to be a covered market hall, but now it’s solely devoted to food. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, who gather at communal tables to enjoy delicious and affordable lunches. For only around twenty Antillian guilders you can get a satisfying hot meal and refreshing cold beverage. Keep in mind that It is open until three o’clock in the afternoon, so plan accordingly.

We were lucky to find a parking spot across the street of Plasa Bieu. The wisest decision, however, would be to park in the large parking lot on the opposite side of Waaigat. From there, you can reach Plasa Bieu on foot in just a couple of minutes.

Plasa Bieu is a food hall with six local food stalls inside the building. Each food stall has its own menu. The available dishes may vary from day to day, depending on the products provided by the suppliers. Fortunately, there are many great options to choose from. Plasa Bieu offers an array of flavorful and well-prepared dishes that showcase the best of local cuisine. One of the most popular dishes at Plasa Bieu is ‘stoba’, a stew that comes in many variations. These are typically made with beef, goat, or pork and a mix of vegetables like pumpkin, chayote, and papaya. On the side, you can opt for white rice, Caribbean rice with beans, funchi (a type of polenta made from corn), potatoes or french fries.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to try ‘giuambo’ or ‘kadushi’, two of the island’s favorite soups. ‘Giuambo’ is made with okra and often includes seafood, while ‘kadushi’ is a cactus soup with a unique flavor and texture. Plasa Bieu is also one of the few places in Curaçao offering an iguana dish. The iguana soup is probably the most adventurous dish served at Plasa Bieu. It is not always available, though. In that case, check with the restaurant owners for the best time to come back and try it.

To quench your thirst, the ice cold Antillian lemonades are your best choice. ‘Awa di lamunchi’, which literally means lemonade, is a very popular drink in Curaçao. You must try it during your stay on the island. Another classic lemonade, the ‘awa di tamarein’ is also highly recommended. This authentic lemonade variation is made with tamarind and has a unique flavor.

Vegetarians will also find plenty of options at Plasa Bieu, as many dishes are vegetable-based. And if you’re not in the mood for exotic or adventurous meals, there are still simple and easily accessible dishes available. Not all menus have English translations, but the friendly waitstaff is always happy to help with translations or recommendations.

Our kids’ favorite is the pumpkin and raisin pancake. When we ordered them during our last visit, the waitress had to bring us the bad news that they were sold out for the day. To our surprise, a local gentleman at the table next to us overheard our conversation and shared two of his pancakes with each of the kids. “Welcome to our beautiful island”, he added. “Masha danki!”, the kids replied. It was another heartwarming example of the hospitality of Curaçao and its people.

One of the best things about Plasa Bieu is this sense of community it fosters. Long rows of communal tables encourage diners to sit together and share a meal, making Plasa Bieu a great place to meet locals and other visitors. It’s a testament to the hospitality of Curaçao and its people, who are always happy to welcome visitors and share their culture.

In summary, Plasa Bieu is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in experiencing the diverse and flavorful cuisine of Curaçao. With its communal atmosphere, friendly staff, and affordable prices, Plasa Bieu is a great place to sample the island’s culinary treasures and connect with its people.