A visit to the island of St. John in the Virgin Islands cannot be complete without lunch at the Bordeaux Mountain Grill. Located along Route 10 on an outside porch overlooking Coral Bay, the view of the east end of St. John and the surrounding islands from this highest point on the island is breathtaking. A car is a must to get to this place, and the ride along the winding, thickly forested roads to get there is an adventure. Every time we've had lunch at this spot, we have been treated to a nice cool breeze, no matter how hot it may be at that particular moment any other place on the island. Burgers and franks are barbecued to order, and you can order a frozen island drink, beer or soda as an accompaniment. Lots of local chatter comes with the place, making this perfect for a quick, informal lunch. You can also enjoy visiting the quaint shops along side.

View Looking East From Chateaux Bordeaux Click here to enlarge.

Adjacent to the grill is the exclusive Chateaux Bordeaux Restaurant. Reservations for dinner there can be made during your visit to the grill. We had hoped to do this late last fall during our last trip, but the weather did not cooperate. In order to truly experience the magnificent view, it is better to plan your visit for dinner at Chateaux Bordeaux on a clear evening. This is a special and romantic place, but very small and intimate, so be sure to call ahead for reservations, or come for lunch at the grill, and make your reservations then. It is certainly on our list when we return.