San Nicolás, affectionately known as "Chocolate City," is the heartbeat of Aruba, offering a deep connection to Afro-Aruban culture and history. When you're looking to experience the true essence of Aruba, beyond the typical tourist zones, this vibrant neighborhood is where

you'll find Black-owned businesses and community crusaders that give the area its unique flair. The moment you arrive, you'll be greeted by stunning murals of Black faces, inviting you to dive deeper into the community's story.
Located just 25-30 minutes from Oranjestad, San Nicolás is the perfect getaway from the hotel district. Here, you’ll avoid overpriced tourist traps and get a true taste of the island’s culture. Whether you're indulging in local food, shopping for handcrafted jewelry, or immersing yourself in the community, San Nicolás offers an experience that you won't find elsewhere on the island.
Here are some must-visit spots to support Black-owned businesses in San Nicolás:
Kulture Café: A cozy, welcoming café offering a delightful variety of breakfast and lunch options, from vegan dishes to traditional Aruban meals. It’s a cultural hub where you can savor local flavors while learning about the rich history of the island.
O'Niel Caribbean Kitchen: A must-try for those craving authentic Caribbean flavors! Run by Jamaican chef O’Neil Williams, this spot serves up mouthwatering dishes like ackee and saltfish and Aruban fried fish balls. Just be sure to plan your visit ahead— we made the mistake of showing up on a Monday when they were closed!
Mimi’s Jewel: While not in San Nicolás, Mimi's jewelry store is a standout destination. Known for its handcrafted, unique pieces, many come from far and wide to purchase jewelry for special occasions like weddings and anniversaries. A truly local treasure.
The Colorado Shack: A charming spot serving refreshing fruit shakes and local dishes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s a great place to stop by for a tasty bite during your exploration of the area.
Grill21: Grill21 will make you rethink everything you know about ribs. Known for their flavorful, fresh dishes, the rib plate here is legendary. Don’t skip the coleslaw—it’s the kind of side that will have you coming back for more!
D Roti Spot: Roti lovers, this is your paradise. Offering a variety of roti options, D Roti Spot serves up bold, authentic flavors and is a must-visit for anyone craving this Caribbean classic.
Grote Berg Snack : We can't talk about Jhonny Cakes unless we talk about Grote Berg Snack! When you stop by Grote Bergweg 17, tell Ms.Bernadine we sent you! Hands down the best place to indulge in this irresistible staple! From 7:00am to 3:00pm don't miss out!
Kamini’s Kitchen: A popular favorite for locals and visitors alike, Kamini’s Kitchen brings the vibrant flavors of Trinidad and Tobago to Aruba. The friendly staff and hearty dishes make it a great spot to enjoy after a day at Baby Beach (aka the Black Beach).
Big Mama Grill: Located at Baby Beach, Big Mama Grill offers a lively, fun atmosphere with an extensive Caribbean menu. It’s all about the vibes here, so grab a seat, soak in the music, and enjoy the beautiful beach setting.
Saco Di Felipe:A true gem of the area, Saco Di Felipe offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Open only in the evening, this spot serves up incredible meals in a relaxed outdoor setting with food delivered in brown paper bags. This brown paper bag full of goodies is known as ''Saco'' hence the name. Locals love it, in fact adore it, and you will too.
Caribbean Bar: A cornerstone of the local nightlife scene, Caribbean Bar is a bustling corner spot where you can enjoy Soca, Dancehall, and Afrobeats while mingling with locals. A lively place to dance the night away.
Dr.Juice : Dr.Juice is the one of the hardest working men on this happy Island! Located on Baby beach Dr. Juice sells juices out of his circular pop up stand! Said to be the BEST Juice on the island, he says you can't find anything else like it. Watermelon , Pineapple and Orange are his offerings and his juice is even better when you add a little something something! Nine times out of ten he will have on a ''Chocolate City'' Jersey, and be ready to greet you!
Lolita Statue: The Lolita Statue in front of the Visitor’s Center is a tribute to the resilient Caribbean women who played a pivotal role in Aruba's history during the oil refinery period. These entrepreneurial women, who hustled to provide for their families, are the heart of San Nicolás. This statue honors their legacy and celebrates the strength of Black women everywhere.
San Nicolás may not always make the headlines, but it’s the soul of Aruba. It’s where you can truly feel the pulse of the community—whether it’s watching people play dominoes (Bau Palo Boys), kids running through the streets, or seeing a casually strolling pet pig ( I was Shook lol). This is the real Aruba, the one that feeds your spirit and reminds you of the power of community. When you visit San Nicolás, you’re not just experiencing a destination, you’re celebrating history, culture, and the vibrant contributions of Black entrepreneurs. You can find all these listings in the ABC Travel Greenbook app, download your gateway and K.I.Nnect with the African Diaspora globally! Don’t miss it!
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