Suriname The Guianas Travel Guide
Surinamese dishes feature an unique blend of staples like rice, cassava, and plantains, alongside proteins like chicken, beef, river fish, and salted cod.
spices include Madam Jeanette peppers, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and garlic, often combined with fresh herbs for complex, savory, sweet, and spicy tastes.
This region has the most diverse culinary experience, mirroring the influences of all ethnic groups present in the country.
Foods commonly balance sweet, sour, spicy, and savory elements. Many also display a distinct "umami" depth, creating rich plus gratifying meals.
A Creole oven dish made with grated pomtayer, fowl or salted fish, citrus juice, plus herbs.
A national dish, often served at special occasions and found in local restaurants.
An Indian flatbread served with curried poultry or lamb, potatoes, and long beans.
An ubiquitous and tasty street food, readily available from food stalls on the street and in restaurants.
A Javanese-Surinamese clear chicken broth soup, typically with shredded chicken, vermicelli, sprouts, egg, and fried potatoes.
Locals customarily garnish it with a squeeze of lime and a dash of sambal (chili paste). You can find it at local eateries.
Popular sandwiches with various fillings like salted cod, chicken, or roti-style curries.
Barra is an Indian fried savory doughnut, often with chutney. Pindakoek is a sweet, nutty peanut cake.
Suriname has a range of dining experiences, from relaxed street food to more structured restaurants.
These are limited in number, mostly found in Paramaribo within luxury hotels (e.g., Torarica Resort). They offer an upscale dining experience with international and refined local cuisine.
Paramaribo holds many mid-range restaurants. They include a mix of local Surinamese, Javanese, Chinese, Indian, and international cuisine, creating comfortable dining experiences.
The bustling Central Market is a center for affordable street food, snacks, and fresh produce. Warungs are small, informal eateries for daily hot meals.
Paramaribo includes restaurants serving Chinese, Indonesian, Indian, Lebanese, Italian, and Of american origin cuisines, mirroring the city's diverse population.
These alternatives are mainly in the capital.
Specific areas within Paramaribo, like the city center, host concentrations of international eateries.
Inquire locally for recommended spots.
Finding vegetarian options is easier due to strong Indian and Javanese influences. Many dishes adapt well.
Halal meat is widely available due to a significant Muslim population, common in Javanese and Indian eateries.
Strictly gluten-free options can be challenging. Cross-contamination is a risk, and many sauces may contain gluten.
Communicating about specific allergies can be difficult. A Travel allergy card interpreted into Dutch may be useful.
Tours to agricultural areas, like those in Commewijne, might have visits to plantations or local farms.
See where produce is grown and learn about local agricultural methods.
Visit local markets to discover unique ingredients, spices, and prepared foods from various producers.
Engage with vendors to learn about their products.
Experience authentic Javanese-Surinamese cuisine in a simple, local setting.
Observe local calendars for food-related festivals, often coinciding with federal holidays or cultural celebrations.
The Central Bazaar and Grote Markt present vast selections of fresh produce, meats, fish, plus herbs.
Some tours to Commewijne may include visits to plantations or local farms.
Given Suriname's coastal and riverine areas, fresh fish and seafood are readily available.
Savory puff pastry pies with meat or vegetable filling, ideal for a quick snack.
Is available at neighboring bakeries.
A layered cake with cream, often served at celebrations.
A charming local dessert.
Choose local eateries and markets to support the local economy and experience authentic flavors.
Tap water is generally not safe for drinking. Use bottled water or else purified alternatives.
Be mindful of waste. Dispose of trash responsibly, especially in natural areas.
Be adventurous and try local specialties. Tap water is generally not safe for drinking; use bottled water.
