Savant: Experience the Essence of Caribbean Seafood in Christiansted

When Marjan and I travel, we search as many sites as we can find, searching for most recommended restaurants. Savant was among the handful that were highly recommended in St. Croix. The restaurant is found in Christiansted, parking behind the restaurant, unpaved lot. There are two entrances to the restaurant, one for entering the patio dining area, the entry for this area adjacent to the parking lot. Should the guest elect indoor seating, the entrance is found on the main entrance on Hospital Street. Reservations were highly recommended, and we preferred the patio, but as we dined on a Monday evening, we noticed several empty tables and one couple was seated without reservation. The restaurant is of older construction, typical of much in the city. The patio walls are of natural, uncut rock, cemented in place, covered with ivy and other flora. Think "grotto look" to the patio. Over the area is a fabric "parachute" sheltering the dining and bar from the elements. There is no air conditioning, but for our visit, heat and humidity were not an issue. The floor is of cement, the tables and chairs of wrought iron. Lighting is muted, soft music playing over speakers, the ambience cozy. We were immediately seated at our reserved time, and after a moment or two, our waitress offered choice of tap water, bottled water or carbonated water. We passed on appetizers, and Marjan selected the special wahoo, my choice the mahi offering. The offered sides were, as expected, delicious vegetables. But Marjan's wahoo entree was frankly, a disappointment. This fish is somewhat firm by nature, but her dish was sadly overcooked, chewy and dry. The portion of my mahi was moist and tender, easily the better of the two entrees. But we thought both dishes somewhat lacking in seasoning, and skimpy on sauce. We paired our dinner with glasses of White Haven and Pine Ridge. We found ourselves on the horns of a dilemma, discussing our rating of Savant. We were torn between 3 and 4. We always enjoy outdoor seating, and the courtyard offered a pleasing, romantic ambience. The staff was appropriately attentive, and our waitress very knowledgeable of the menu. But reviews had been lavish in praise of the offerings, and we had a different experience. Perhaps other menu items would be stellar, but we probably would not return mindful of price to value issues.

One of our favorite places for dinner on the island - with my absolute favorite dish "Lazy Lobster." Positively scrumptious! The staff is always fun and attentive and the food is excellent. We enjoy eating upstairs in the dining room when we want to be cool, but nothing beats the grotto-like bar and dining room "downstairs." Savant - please never change!

Made our reservation for 7pm, they let us in early and had no trouble. Our waiter was nice and he came by several times through out the meal. I enjoyed the restaurant looks we sat in the outside portion. I ordered the stuffed filet and it was very good! Would definitely recommend. Other members of our party had the pork chop, I tried that and it was very good as well.

Savant is a neighborhood gem! The food and service were fantastic. I will absolutely visit on my next trip to St. Croix.

Small and quaint restaurant and bar with a somewhat limited but interesting menu. A few vegetarian options pair with lots of seafood. Prices are high-ish, but so is the rest of STX. With an app, main dish and drink, expect to spend $100 per person. Staff is attentive and wine list is good. Ambience is intimate. Reservations are recommended, but our party of 4 was able to walk in on a weekday evening and get seated immediately.

Great food, service and helpings. The atmosphere was romantic.A definite must try. I wish there was more ventilation in the courtyard dining room during hot evenings.

This place is a secret garden oasis with incredible foodie-level fine dining, impeccable service and ambience galore!

This restaurant was one of the best that we visited. I had a dizzy jewel drink, if you are a gin drinker you might like it. The best item was the lobster egg rolls!!! It deserved all three exclamation points. The vibe is so nice! It's dimly lit, jazz music, friendly bartender. I always say that but who wants to sit at a bar and order a drink from a rude person

Pro: Blink and you'll miss this hidden gem! Nestled away on Hospital Street as one leaves downtown Christiansted traveling east is a wonderful little place called Savant. It is certainly not the typical fare encountered on the Christiansted waterfront. And it is certainly not the local fare you find "where most islanders eat". No, Savante is different. It takes in-season local ingredients, adds a continental flare, and wows the diner with every bite! As one relaxes in the dim "date night" ambiance, one can lose themselves in the chargrilled Calamari, double-cut pork chop, rack of lamb, red snapper, and whatever specials they switch up the menu with. ALL ARE AMAZING! Con: Blink and you'll miss the place. I suppose food this good doesn't need to advertise! Bottom Line: Perfect for an island date night, intimate small gathering, or any occasion that requires great food and service.