Even for St. Barth winter residents the name Taiwana Hotel is difficult to place, located on a secret perch of Baie des Flamands close to much-better known Isle de France. A modernist design hotel, Taiwana features a traditional pitched-roof lobby with arrangement of imported Italian furnishings and open bar leading to the in-house eatery. Framed by glass walls and covered terrace facing one of the prettiest beaches on the island, the dining room is arranged in white Schultz-inspired tabletops with patio of teak decor and ever-present pop of Mao red tabletops. Opposite the dining room, a sexy pool and terraced lounge with red cabanas is home to its own bar and outdoor scene with seasonal DJs and the occasional private soiree.
The Food
This deconstructed Flamands Beach eatery is open to the public and hotel guests for lunch and dinner. Yearly special events include communal barbecues and fish fires that lure the town luminaries and visiting elite. The menu is a sampling of local seafood and imported meats with specialties like grilled shrimp, langoustines, Brazilian lobster and fresh salads with hunk of daily-caught fish. Late evenings feature more of a lounge scene with rotating DJs spinning lounge anthems on busier weekends and high-season holidays.
Last Word
Renovated boutique hotel on Baie des Flamands offer seasonal eatery with eccentric chef and delightful fresh-caught seafood menu.
