
Yemanja Woodfired Grill
A trendy local restaurant specializing in Caribbean-European fusion, featuring a wood-fired grill and accommodating diverse dietary needs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A trendy local restaurant specializing in Caribbean-European fusion, featuring a wood-fired grill and accommodating diverse dietary needs.
"One of the best meals on the island so far!!! Insanely good."
Reservations Recommended
Secure your table by making a reservation, especially during busy times.
Dress for Comfort Indoors
The air conditioning can be chilly inside; consider bringing a light cover-up.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Caribbean-European Fusion
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wood-Fired Grill Mastery
Experience local ingredients infused with smoky flavor from the island's wood-fired grill. A true taste of Aruba.

Caribbean-European Fusion
Savor a unique blend of Caribbean and European flavors, with fresh seafood and hearty meat dishes at the forefront.

Dessert Delights
Indulge in decadent desserts like the highly recommended lava cake, a perfect end to a memorable meal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Recommended
Secure your table by making a reservation, especially during busy times.
Dress for Comfort Indoors
The air conditioning can be chilly inside; consider bringing a light cover-up.
Appetizer Must-Try
Don't miss the highly recommended Grilled Octopus, Chorizo & Calamari appetizer.
Dessert Perfection
The lava cake is a must-order dessert, featuring a crispy top and gooey center with vanilla gelato.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Recommended
Secure your table by making a reservation, especially during busy times.
Dress for Comfort Indoors
The air conditioning can be chilly inside; consider bringing a light cover-up.
Appetizer Must-Try
Don't miss the highly recommended Grilled Octopus, Chorizo & Calamari appetizer.
Dessert Perfection
The lava cake is a must-order dessert, featuring a crispy top and gooey center with vanilla gelato.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Yemanja Woodfired Grill receives high praise for its delicious Caribbean-European fusion cuisine, especially dishes cooked on the wood-fired grill. Diners rave about the attentive service, welcoming atmosphere, and extensive menu with options for various dietary needs. Some guests have experienced longer wait times for food during busy periods, and one reviewer noted disappointment with a specific steak cut and over-salted potatoes.
"We had a great dinner. Kevin was an amazing server. He was friendly, attentive, and made the experience even better. The whole staff was welcoming and the food was fresh and delicious. One of the best meals we’ve had. Highly recommend!
Make a reservation!"
Review Right
"Yemanja was an amazing restaurants. From the beginning till the end the service was subliminal. The food was super delicious. The Thai Curry Pumpkin soup was superb, the spicy kick and the crunchyness of nuts amazing. The cocktail was refreshing. The main courses the meats were soft and side dishes were great."
Tricia Ramou-Everon
"Incredible meal from start to finish. Went here tonight (Wednesday), had an amazing table on the patio under the lights with a nice breeze. Server was attentive, welcoming, and friendly. Octopus & chorizo app to start, with swordfish kabob and snapper entrees to split. Insanely good. We can’t stop raving about it, by far our favorite meal on the island so far!!!"
Meredith Bogin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is celebrated for its Caribbean-European fusion cuisine, with a strong emphasis on dishes prepared on a wood-fired grill that imparts a unique smoky flavor.
Yes, Yemanja Woodfired Grill is known for having extensive vegan and vegetarian options, including creative dishes and accommodations for various dietary restrictions.
It is highly recommended to make a reservation, especially during peak hours or seasons, to ensure you get a table.
The Grilled Octopus, Chorizo & Calamari dish is a frequently recommended appetizer by patrons.
The lava cake is a must-try dessert, often praised for its perfect balance of crispy and gooey textures, usually served with vanilla gelato.
Some guests mention that the air conditioning inside can be quite cool, so bringing a light jacket is advisable. A stray cat also roams the outdoor dining area, which some guests find charming and others may prefer to be notified about.
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Full flavor is on offer at this downtown open-air spot, helmed by a Dutch expat. You’ll find a host of local ingredients on the menu, many of which are plucked straight from the sea and cooked on the wood-fired grill. While unusual in the Caribbean, the restaurant also offers hearty vegetarian dishes, from fattoush (a flat bread topped with greens and tzatziki sauce) and quinoa-stuffed zucchini to vegetables in a spicy Creole sauce, as well as several gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free options.
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Located by the Renaissance Hotel in downtown Oranjestad, Yemanja Woodfire Grill is a hip local restaurant specialising in Caribbean-European fusion. The wood-fire grill, for which the restaurant is named, is fuelled by wood from the island, so diners can literally taste the essence of Aruba in every delicious bite. Fortunately, Chef Joyce Husken and her kitchen staff are happy to accommodate many dietary restrictions, an extra level of dedication most restaurants don’t typically offer.
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Nestled between historical and modernized monuments like Aruba's oldest church, the 100-year-old Cosecha building and the House of Parliament, Yemanja creates a warm and welcoming veranda for her downtown guests. The inviting aromas of Yemanja's wood-fired grills attract and satiate all kinds of palates, uncovering succulent dishes like the Caribbean Grilled Swordfish Kebab and the perfectly prepared Picanha accompanied with rich homemade sauces and Chimichurri. Vegans and vegetarians will have a hard time deciding how to Power Bowl their main course salad with Yemanja's wealth of savory additions, including gluten, nut and dairy free options.
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Situado junto al Renaissance Hotel en el centro de Oranjestad, Yemanja Woodfire Grill es un moderno restaurante local especializado en fusión entre el Caribe y Europa. La parrilla de leña, de la que se llama el restaurante, es alimentada con madera de la isla, por lo que los comensales pueden degustar literalmente la esencia de Aruba en cada bocado delicioso. Afortunadamente, la chef Joyce Husken y su personal de cocina están encantados de cumplir con muchas restricciones dietéticas, un nivel extra de dedicación que la mayoría de los restaurantes no suelen ofrecer.
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Situato vicino al Renaissance Hotel nel centro di Oranjestad, Yemanja Woodfire Grill è un ristorante locale alla moda specializzato in fusion caraibico-europeo. La griglia a legna, per la quale il ristorante prende il nome, è alimentata dal legno dell'isola, così i commensali possono letteralmente degustare l'essenza di Aruba in ogni delizioso boccone. Fortunatamente, lo chef Joyce Husken e il suo staff di cucina sono felici di accettare molte restrizioni dietetiche, un livello extra di dedizione che la maggior parte dei ristoranti in genere non offre.
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We had booked a dinner reservation to Yemanja for our arrival day after reading several positive reviews and because it was about a three minute walk from our accommodations at the Renaissance Aruba Resort & Casino. Yemanja offers both indoor and outdoor seating, which is common in Aruba but has a very unique menu. While service was a tad slower the night we visited, we had excellent service overall, and a friendly waiter who even snuck us a second basket of bread and their delicious butter and tapenade while we waited.
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Nestled in between quaint and historic buildings downtown, Yemanja‘s menu is unique, extremely extensive, and truly has something to offer for everyone. From seafood to meat, and even vegan, each dish is well-executed, created with only the best and most fresh ingredients… making for a beautiful work of art!. Chef and owner Joyce is the mastermind behind Yemanja’s culinary concept and often adds new items to their menu to keep it exciting and fresh, check out their menu here.
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill (IG: @yemanjaaruba) – Yemanja Woodfired Grill was one of the first restaurants on the island to have extensive vegan options, but apparently, they’ve been stepping up their vegan-food-game more recently!. They served us up a BBQ platter which included BBQ “ribs”, mac and cheese, jackfruit pulled-pork, and a side of coleslaw. Everyone was so impressed with how meaty the ribs were and how creamy and delicious the mac and cheese was.
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At Yemanja Woodfired Grill, the focus is on creating dishes that are as pleasing to the palate as they are to the eye. This hotspot is famed for its innovative cooking techniques, mostly using its wood-fired grill to infuse a distinctive smoky flavor into meats, seafood, and even vegetables. The restaurant’s inviting ambiance, combined with its commitment to high-quality, sustainable ingredients, makes it one of Oranjestad’s most cherished dining locales.
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Downtown, the Yemanja Woodfired Grill is a highly regarded restaurant located in a charming historic building on a cozy pedestrian street called Caya G.F. Betico Croes, lined with various restaurants, bars, and shops. The restaurant is known for its delicious grilled meats and seafood cooked using a traditional wood-fired grill. The menu features a variety of dishes, including grilled steaks, lamb chops, and fresh seafood such as shrimp and lobster.
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If you’re looking for a restaurant with a unique concept and a menu that will tantalize your taste buds, then Yemanja Woodfired Grill is a must-visit destination in Aruba. Located in the heart of Oranjestad, this restaurant is known for its wood-fired dishes, inventive cocktails, and cozy atmosphere. The menu at Yemanja Woodfired Grill is diverse and eclectic, with a range of dishes that are prepared using traditional wood-fired cooking techniques.
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Wilhelminastraat 2, Oranjestad, ArubaVegan-friendly restaurant with a diverse & flavorful menu. Long before many restaurants on the island were thinking about veggie fare, Yemanja was creating an array of show-stopping vegan and gluten-free dishes!. The globally-inspired menu is well-marked for various allergens and features favorites like vegan BBQ with sticky ribs and pulled pork, along with a veganized steak made from cauliflower.
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Outdoor and patio dining are both available at the Caribbean-inspired Yemanja Woodfired Grill, located in a historic building in downtown Oranjestad. The menu consists of international cuisine fused with island flavors and grilled to perfection. While seafood and steak are abundant, the restaurant also offers a grilled vegan menu with dishes like stuffed portobello, marinated cauliflower steak, and barbecued meatless pork and ribs.
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Joyce Hüsken (44), owner and executive chef at Yemanja Woodfired Grill, put her very own mark on Aruba’s culinary landscape. When opening Yemanja in 2009, not only was she the first female chef to own a restaurant in Aruba, Joyce also was an early adapter of vegan, gluten free, and dairy-free cuisine. Joyce’s culinary journey is a remarkable one that began at the young age of 14 when she entered Culinary School in The Netherlands.
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Yemanja is een mooi restaurant met een gezellig terras in Oranjestad. Dit restaurant wordt gerund door het zusje van de chef van Screaming Eagle en heeft een voor Arubaanse begrippen mooie, gezonde en uitgebreide kaart. Denk aan quinoa salades, gevulde portobello met truffel risotto, geitenkaas in bladerdeeg en hele lekkere main course salads die je zelf kunt pimpen met tonijn, kip, beef, garnalen of wat je maar wilt.
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Nestled within a picturesque historic structure in the heart of Downtown Oranjestad, Yemanja Woodfired Grill has been tantalizing taste buds since its inception in 2007. This restaurant offers an international cuisine infused with vibrant Caribbean flavors and presented with utmost finesse, all within a relaxed and informal ambiance. Yemanja has earned its reputation for its innovative and imaginative dishes.
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Blending a wood-fired grill with exquisite Caribbean flavors, Yemanja Woodfired Grill allows Chef Joyce Hüsken's talent and passion to shine. This is a wonderful destination for vegetarians and vegans, who enjoy access to a diverse menu that includes everything from vegan BBQ to herb-crusted cauliflower steak. Seafood enthusiasts will be impressed by the grilled garlic shrimp and the grouper filet.
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill is a vibrant downtown restaurant known for its innovative fusion dishes and use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The centerpiece of the restaurant is its wood-fired grill, which imparts a distinct smoky flavor to meats, seafood, and even vegetarian options. Yemanja’s modern decor and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite for both locals and tourists.
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Yemanja has become one of the island's premiere restaurants since opening in 2007. Its moniker refers to a sea goddess, but the draw is purely terrestrial: prime cuts of meat seared to perfection over a mesquite-fired grill. The tenderloin lives up to its name: two melt-in-your-mouth pieces of beef accompanied by a mashed-potato basket cradling grilled asparagus tied with bacon.
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill in Oranjestad is celebrated for its unique wood-fired cuisine and warm, rustic ambiance. The menu offers a range of expertly grilled meats, fresh seafood, and creative vegetarian dishes, all featuring bold flavors and an artful presentation. Known for catering to various dietary needs, Yemanja has something for every palate, including gluten-free options.
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Other great restaurants include Pinchos on the water, Passions on the Beach, Yemanja, Gianni’s, La Scala, Casa Tua, Barefoot, and Screaming Eagle. You can also literally have a “Cheeseburger in Paradise” at the Nikki Beach Club, which offers over-sized mattress-like lounges. Additionally, skip Starbucks and try Juan Valdez instead for your favorite caffeinated pick-me-up.
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While you can easily wander around the city and walk into any of the numerous restaurants that catch your eye, the more popular options include The West Deck and Yemanja Woodfired Grill. Both offer dishes that showcase the island’s unique flavors. Another option is Sandra’s Garden Restaurant, which is within walking distance from the port area and next to Surfside Beach.
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WHO: This lively Caribbean restaurant is located downtown behind the Renaissance Hotel and is led by its charming and dedicated Chef / Owner Joyce De Cuba-Hüsken. At the age of 14, Joyce began to pursue a career in Culinary Arts in Holland. After moving to Aruba, she became owner and Executive Chef in 2009.
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Located in downtown Oranjestad, this restaurant takes pride in service and presentation. You’ll need a reservation to enjoy their cozy dining experience. Popular dishes include Blackened Three-tail Fish, the Yemanja Power Bowl with Grilled Portobello, and Coconut Mousse with Mango Gelato for dessert.
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And though some well-established venues are easy to find like Yemanja Woodfired Grill, Driftwood, and L.G. Smith’s Steak & Chop House, there are many hidden dining gems. Seek out places like Maroc for wine and tapas, or fine dining at Wilhelmina and their chef’s table, Carte Blanche, next door.
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This spot was recommended by a few local women by age who I connected with right away, so I knew I’d love the joint. Yemanja, located behind the Renaissance Hotel in Oranjestad, is a blend of European and Caribbean style food. Food is cooked on a wood-fired grill and they offer weekly specials.
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Located in the heart of Oranjestad, Yemanja Woodfired Grill offers a unique dining experience with its wood-fired cooking method. As a result, the menu features a variety of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options. All infused with a smoky flavor that is sure to delight your taste buds.
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Yemanja Woodfire Grill was Joe’s favorite place to eat in Aruba, and he is not alone in his opinion!. This restaurant receives consistently positive reviews and remains one of the most popular restaurants on the island!. Joe absolutely loved the fusion of Caribbean flavor with European style.
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Try Yemanja if you want a place known for yummy, foodie cuisine. You’ll find places that celebrate the country’s connection to the Netherlands–specifically look for restaurants that serve up Dutch pancakes. Or if you want to go local, try Gostoso, which serves up Portuguese and Aruban food.
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A journey into town for some shopping can make you work up quite an appetite. Yemanja serves up a fusion of Caribbean and European styles that will shock your tastebuds. For those who are of age, the menu has suggestions for the perfect wine to pair with your entrée.
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill: Wilhelminastraat 2, Oranjestad Aruba. Located in a historic building in Downtown Oranjestad, Yemanja Woodfired Grill has been captivating diverse palates since 2007. By mastering the world’s oldest and most beautiful cooking method,
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When traveling to Aruba, dining at Yemanja Woodfired Grill is a must!. The treehouse atmosphere is such a vibe, and the food is amazing. All vegetarian menu options can be ordered vegan, but the menu does feature a handful of offerings that are vegan as-is.
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If a restaurant has set a bar in Downtown Oranjestad, it must be Yemanja Woodfired Grill. Running since 2007, it serves international cuisine electrified by bold Caribbean flavors. Chef Joyce Hüsken is the owner and executive chef of this establishment.
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Experience a creative blend of Caribbean flavors combined with European flair. Yemanja has both indoor and outdoor seating. However, I always prefer dining on their cozy terrace decorated with torches and palm fronds- it’s a true oasis feel!
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill is located at Wilhelminastraat 2, Oranjestad, Aruba, and is within walking distance of the Renaissance Resort. It ranks #27 out of 193 Restaurants in Oranjestad. HOURS: Monday – Saturday from 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm.
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Lekker eten in Oranjestad, dat kun je bij Yemanja, dat bekend staat om haar gezonde keuken. Ik ga voor de vegan groenten van de houtskoolgrill met een spicy Creoolse saus, maar dan iets minder pittig. De pindasaus is goddelijk.
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This restaurant was also walking distance for our airbnb unit at Lagoon Studios. Indulging in the local seafood we ordered the squid served three ways, each better than the next!. We followed up with some delicious fresh fish.
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Yemanja – Located in the center of Oranjestad, Aruba’s largest city, Yemanja offers various grilled meat, fish and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant was constructed out of two colonial buildings behind Aruba’s parliament.
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In een historisch gebouw in Oranjestad vind je Yemanja Woodfired Grill. De vis en het vlees worden bereid op houtvuur grill en dat proef je terug aan de rokerige smaak. Er zijn trouwens ook vega en vegan opties.
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Yemanja Wood Fire Grill is a very cool restaurant using smoke and the grill. Located in one of the historic buildings in downtown Oranjestad. We enjoyed our dinner on the patio on a warm spring night.
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Yemanja wordt door Nederlanders gerund en alles wat uit de keuken komt is op de houtskoolgrill bereidt. En dat zorgt voor een geweldige smaaksensatie!. Volg je een vega- of glutenvrij dieet?.
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Yemanja Woodfired Grill – Located in Oranjestad, Yemanja serves up delicious dishes that meld Caribbean and Europeans flavors and styles. It's one of the top-rated restaurants on the island.
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Yemanja Woodfire Grill – Located in Oranjestad, Yemanja serves up delicious dishes that meld Caribbean and Europeans flavors and styles. It's one of the top-rated restaurants on the island.
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Stop 4: Yemanja Woodfired Grill, where we tried a spare rib and mac and cheese plate (the gluten free option was a creamy, delicious risotto).
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Places like Papiamento Restaurant and Yemanja Woodfired Grill serve top Aruban dishes. The Old Fisherman Restaurant is famous for its seafood.
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Some of the best Aruba eateries on this list are Linda’s Dutch Pancakes and Pizza, Yemanja Woodfire Grill and Papiamento Restaurant.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit