Food is always our top priority, and that's no different when it comes to planning a big trip. We're not just looking for great restaurants with a stellar menu — we want a taste of place and the chance to be immersed in the people, experiences and flavours that we'll treasure as souvenirs for years to come.

St. Kitts is still a hidden gem, but it's quickly becoming a popular destination among Canadians looking for warm sunshine, limin' — the way of life that embraces lightness and joy — and gastronomic adventure capable of creating lifelong memories. The rich history of St. Kitts means that you won't have to travel far across its landscape of tropical rainforest and volcanic mountains to find an epicurean experience that's up to snuff.

With a coastline to fish from, St. Kitts is blessed with seafood like yellowfin tuna, mahi-mahi, snapper, wahoo and conch. Mouthwateringly fresh lobster is abundant here, and it's inexpensive and available year-round. St. Kitts boasts an unspoiled and expanding rainforest that's easily accessible just 15 minutes away from its capital, Basseterre. Not only is the rainforest a fertile breeding ground for plants and wildlife, it's also home to farms where guests can dine and learn about low-intervention farming methods.

St. Kitts culinary experiences | Sunset Reef

Sustainability doesn't begin and end on the rich soils of St. Kitts' farmland. Many businesses on the island are working towards a greener future. Sunset Reef Resort, home to dining destinations like Sandbar and Drop Anchor Grill, uses geothermal technology to heat and cool its property using natural energy.

Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort — a stunning property nestled in the mountains overlooking the point where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Caribbean Sea — has a commitment to sustainable principles and farm-to-table practices.

If you're still looking for more gourmet-geared fun, St. Kitts hosts several foodie events, like Grill Fest and St. Kitts and Nevis Restaurant Week, both in July. No matter when you visit, St. Kitts has set the table.

5 unmissable culinary experiences in St. Kitts

Forget buffets and all-inclusive dining: St. Kitts is an epicurean destination that champions food and drink experiences designed to tantalize tastebuds. Here are five culinary musts.

1. Sunset dining at Orchid Bay

Italian cuisine might not be what you expect to find at this breathtaking open-air restaurant overlooking the ocean, but you'll be glad you did. Authentic wood-fired pizza and hand-rolled pasta coupled with wine from their cellar is the perfect pairing for this incredible sundowner.

2. Liamuiga Natural Farms

St. Kitts culinary experiences | Liamuiga Natural Farms

Rainforest-to-table might be our new favourite food movement. Climb 1,500 feet above sea level in a converted military truck to Liamuiga Natural Farms. It doesn't get fresher than the produce at this protected citrus and coffee farm.

3. The Kitchen at Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort

St. Kitts culinary experiences | Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort

At Belle Mont Sanctuary Resort, where the privacy is unparalleled, you might see more monkeys than people. Food at on-site restaurant The Kitchen is Kittitian with a huge focus on local fruit, meat and seafood, plus herbs and produce from their own farm.

4. Lobster Fest at Reggae Beach Bar & Grill

Every Friday night at 6 p.m., Lobster Fest takes over Reggae Beach. Lime and enjoy freshly caught lobster, mahi mahi and shrimp plus turf plates like chicken and ribs. There are also delicious drinks, music and beachside dancing.

5. Become a certified Kittitian RumMaster

St. Kitts culinary experiences | Become a certified Kittitian RumMaster

Whether you're a big fan of rum or looking to learn about the island's rich sugarcane history, this is a must-do on any trip to St. Kitts. Wingfield Estate is the oldest surviving distillery in the Caribbean and where you'll begin your deep dive into the world of rum.

Head to visitstkitts.com to start planning your Caribbean adventure.