Despite the excellent dining options on Tortola, many vacationers who are too busy diving or snorkeling hire a local or private chef for a taste of the islands in their own villa. Donna Arter (d_arter88@surfbvi.com), a private chef on Tortola, and diver Albert Stoutt, know the hidden fishing spots and often team up to not only prepare your food, but catch it too. With the growing demand for private catering services that focus on local cuisine, Donna and Albert have carved out a niche product – not only the freshest lobster, but served seaside as well.
"Many of my customers get a kick out of grilling their lobster over an open fire by the ocean, something that often is prohibited on beaches in the US," Donna told me on a recent visit, talking at ease with a live lobster in hand.
On our most recent experience, Donna and Albert hosted a boat full of wide-eyed family members – all treated to a day sail, snorkeling excursions, and rum runner lobster and asparagus grilled over a fire, with local made charcoal, on a secluded BVI beach.
Booking a local private chef isn’t has hard or expensive as one might imagine, and can often be lined up by vacationers during the week of their visit. Stephanie Shaw (284-494-8668), originally from New York, is always a good bet for foodies traveling abroad – as she can also whip up an unforgettable meal in your vacation villa, yacht, or just about anywhere else you can imagine. It’s no wonder Chef Steph is the "chef du jour" for the Chief Minister and First Lady in BVI, as well a handful of government officials and "celebrity clients."
Best of all, these wonderful chefs can free up valuable time during your vacation, giving you a chance to take scuba lessons, explore a nearby island, or relax longer on the beach.