L'Isoletta
Roman-style pizza al metro in the heart of Gustavia
Why Go
A slice of Rome tucked into Rue du Roi Oscar II, where meter-long pizzas and glass-case Italian classics keep this Gustavia trattoria buzzing from lunch until late.
The Experience
L'Isoletta pulls off something rare on St Barth: casual, unfussy Italian eating that still feels distinctly island-chic. Step inside and you're greeted by a glass counter lined with fresh Roman-style pizzas, trays of lasagna, eggplant parmesan, and daily sandwiches - you point, they slice, you sit down under the covered terrace with its low tables and Gustavia buzz drifting in. The vibe is closer to a proper Roman pizza al taglio than a white-tablecloth affair, which is exactly what makes it work as a break from the island's more precious dining. Families spread out, boat crews grab pre-sail slabs, and late-night stragglers wander in for a wedge of pizza and a glass of Italian red. It has been slinging pies here since 2008, and the consistency shows.
What to Try
The pizza al metro is the whole point - order it by the meter (or half-meter) with a couple of toppings so the table can share. Beyond that, the lasagna is a sleeper hit, the eggplant parmesan is properly saucy and layered, and the daily Italian desserts (tiramisu when it's on) are worth saving room for. Pair with a bottle from their well-curated Italian wine list rather than defaulting to a cocktail.
Insider Tip
Skip the sit-down wait at peak dinner hour and order pizza al metro to go - it's built for the beach or the boat, and Delifood-StBarth handles online orders if you want it ready when you arrive. If you're dining in, weekday lunch is far calmer than the 8-10pm dinner crush.
The Practical Stuff
Rue du Roi Oscar II, Gustavia 97133. Roughly Mon-Sat 12pm-11pm, Sun 5:30pm-11pm (call ahead to confirm seasonal hours). Reservations at +590 590 52 02 02 or reservations@isolettastbarth.com. Mid-range for St Barth - one of the more wallet-friendly sit-downs in Gustavia. Casual dress; walk-ins possible but a call ahead helps in high season.
Pair It With
- Absolute Hot Yoga Guide — Burn off the pizza al metro with a morning class a few blocks away in Gustavia before easing back into island mode.
- 6e SENS Massage Wellness Beauty Saint Barth Guide — Book a post-lunch massage nearby to stretch out that leisurely Italian meal into a full afternoon of Gustavia indulgence.
- A Fleur de Peau - St Barth Guide — Wander over to Saint-Jean for boutique browsing after a laid-back lunch - the pace pairs nicely.
