Di Jungle — Caribbean Bar and Restaurant in Upper Princess Quarter
Local Caribbean food and drinks in the residential hills above Philipsburg.
Why Go
Di Jungle Bar & Restaurant at 44 Middle Region Road in the Upper Princess Quarter represents a side of St. Maarten dining that most tourists never encounter. This is where the island eats when the island is eating for itself — up in the residential hills above Philipsburg, away from the beach bars and cruise port restaurants, in a neighborhood where the food is Caribbean to its core and the prices reflect local economics rather than tourist markup. The name captures the vibe: lush, vibrant, and unapologetically island.
The Experience
Di Jungle operates with the casual confidence of a spot that does not need to attract passing foot traffic. Its customers know where it is and come deliberately. The Caribbean menu delivers the flavors that define local cooking — bold seasonings, slow-cooked meats, stewed provisions, and the kind of rice preparations that every Caribbean grandmother has her own version of. The bar side keeps things social with drinks and a convivial atmosphere where conversations flow easily between tables. For visitors willing to rent a car and drive up into the residential areas above Philipsburg, Di Jungle rewards the effort with an authentic cultural experience that no Boardwalk restaurant can replicate.
What to Try
Ask what the kitchen made today — Caribbean restaurants like Di Jungle often cook in batches based on what is available, and the daily menu is the freshest and most inspired option. Stewed chicken, oxtail, or goat (if available) are the traditional stars of any Caribbean kitchen. Rice and peas is the standard side. Wash it down with a local beer or a rum punch.
Insider Tip
Middle Region Road and Upper Princess Quarter are some of St. Maarten's most authentically Caribbean neighborhoods. If you visit Di Jungle, drive slowly through the area and take in the architecture, the gardens, and the hilltop views over Philipsburg — it is a completely different perspective of the island than what you see from the beach.
The Practical Stuff
Located at 44 Middle Region Road, Upper Princess Quarter. Moderate pricing at $$. Caribbean bar and restaurant in a residential neighborhood. A car and GPS are helpful — the hillside roads are not always well-signed. Near Sky Blue Residence and Dutch Quarter Pharmacy. Casual atmosphere, come as you are.
Pair It With
- Sky Blue Residence — Accommodation option in the same residential hill area
- Dutch quarter pharmacy — Local pharmacy nearby if you need essentials in the Upper Princess Quarter