Tucked along Historic Main Street, Taste the BVI is not just a restaurant—it’s a gateway to a unique cultural experience. Founded by the visionary Riiah Durante in November 2023, the business started in a humble three-foot yellow dome at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park. It swiftly expanded to a 10×10 boardwalk space before finding its permanent home on Main Street. Here, Durante continues to redefine the essence of the Virgin Islands, offering a taste, a feeling, and a celebration of its rich heritage.
From Heritage to Hospitality
An eighth-generation descendant of Salt Island, Durante draws inspiration for Taste the BVI from deep roots. Before launching the restaurant, she operated a concierge and destination management service focused on authentic experiences. “There were lots of restaurants,” she recalled, “but very few that celebrated the Virgin Islands through food.”
The name speaks for itself—Taste the BVI invites diners to experience the islands through every bite. Durante isn’t a chef by title, but she’s a creator who took culinary management courses to master her craft. Her mission: to highlight Virgin Islands traditions and ingredients while elevating them with creativity and care.
Standing Out by Staying True
In an industry often swayed by trends, Durante stands firm on the grounds of authenticity. “People often ask why we don’t serve burgers or wings,” she expressed. “But our aim is to be known for serving the best local food in the BVI.” The menu is a reflection of the comfort of home—Johnny Cakes, fish, and hearty island stews—dishes that not only fill the stomach but also connect people to their roots and memories.
While Taste the BVI once thrived on cruise ship traffic, its heart has always belonged to the locals. “Most of our clientele are local,” she proudly stated, “which is a testament to the quality of our food and our strong bond with the community.”
More Than a Restaurant
Durante’s space doubles as a creative hub, hosting cultural discussions and collaborations with local organisations such as the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and the BVI Literary Arts Festival. Now serving as Event Manager at H.L. Stoutt Community College, she uses her platform to connect culture, education, and community.
One standout event, Maritime Melodies: Storytelling through Song and Taste, honoured the BVI’s seafaring history. Featuring cultural icon Elmore Stoutt, it explored the evolution of the Virgin Islands’ maritime history, paired with a traditional menu that reimagined home-style meals in elegant ways. Guests sipped cocoa tea brewed with real cocoa, nutmeg, and lemongrass, served in enamel mugs—a nostalgic nod to the past.
Collaborating with Sean Palmar of Aromas, Durante also curated island-inspired beverages to elevate the evening. “It wasn’t just about storytelling,” she said. “It was about connection.”
Looking Ahead
Following the success of Maritime Melodies, Durante is planning her next event—the Virgin Islands Christmas Guava Berry Festival, promising a family-friendly celebration of culture, flavour, and holiday cheer.
But her vision stretches further. In summer 2026, Taste the BVI will launch a Culinary Apprenticeship Program for youth interested in hospitality, offering hands-on training in traditional cooking and cultural preservation.
A Taste That Lasts
For Durante, food is the language of heritage. “Whether you’re two or ninety-nine, there’s always something creative to look forward to at Taste the BVI,” she said with a smile.
Taste the BVI isn’t just serving meals—it’s serving history, creativity, and a taste of the Virgin Islands’ soul.
Visit Taste the BVI
Historic Main Street, Road Town, Tortola
Tuesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
