1648 - An Island Restaurant

"1648 – An Island Restaurant" is an exquisite gastronomic establishment located in the picturesque town of Governor's Harbour on Eleuthera Island. Being part of the prestigious French Leave Resort, the restaurant is famous for its prime location right at the water's edge, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea, especially at sunset.

This place is considered one of the best in The Bahamas for those seeking a combination of haute cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere. The name of the establishment refers to an important historical date—the year the first settlement was founded on the island, which makes dinner here feel like stepping back in time.

Local culinary traditions and modern gastronomic trends intertwine harmoniously here. Visitors are attracted not only by the menu but also by the opportunity to enjoy the sea breeze on the open terrace while watching yachts bobbing in the harbor.

To book a table, especially in the evening or on weekends, it is recommended to contact the restaurant administration in advance. This will ensure you get the best spot with a view of the sunset.

The main reason people come to "1648" is to taste the freshest seafood prepared with Bahamian flair. Be sure to try dishes made from conch or freshly caught fish, which are cooked masterfully here. Cocktail lovers will appreciate the signature drink menu, perfectly suited for a hot tropical evening.

Besides the food, this place offers magnificent opportunities for visual delight. Take a table on the open veranda to watch the harbor life. In the clear water by the pier, you can often spot marine life—turtles or even small sharks—swimming right up to the restaurant waiting for treats.

Evening time here is a true ritual. Guests gather to watch the sunset and take stunning photos as the sun goes down, when the sky and water merge into a single colorful palette. This is the ideal location for a romantic date or a quiet rest after a day spent on the beach.

The restaurant is located along the main road, Queens Highway, which runs through the entire island of Eleuthera, directly within the town limits. If you are staying at one of the hotels in the center, you can get here on foot, enjoying a walk along the waterfront.

For those staying in remote parts of the island, the most convenient way to get around is a rental car or taxi. Public transport on the island is poorly developed and does not have a clear schedule, so having a car will significantly simplify logistics. The landmark is the French Leave Resort, on the territory of which the establishment is located.

The name of the restaurant—"1648"—was not chosen by chance and carries deep historical meaning for the entire region. It was in this year that a group of Puritans known as the "Eleutheran Adventurers," led by William Sayle, landed on Eleuthera Island. They sought religious freedom and founded the first permanent settlement here.

This event is considered the beginning of the modern history of The Bahamas as a colony. The establishment's interior and concept pay tribute to this heritage, combining the elegance of the colonial style with the spirit of the pioneers.

The restaurant building itself is part of a restored historical complex that carefully preserves the atmosphere of the old Bahamian archipelago. Visitors can feel the connection to the past while enjoying dinner in a place where the history of democracy in the New World literally began.

For visiting this place, it is worth setting aside 1.5 to 2 hours. This will allow you not only to enjoy exquisite dishes but also to soak up the relaxed atmosphere of island life without rushing anywhere.

Many guests come here specifically for sunset to watch the sun go down over the horizon with a cocktail, painting the harbor waters in incredible colors. In such cases, the visit may linger, flowing smoothly into a romantic evening under the stars.

The restaurant typically operates daily, offering guests breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Thanks to its location within the resort, the establishment's doors are open from early morning until late at night.

However, operating hours may change depending on the season or private events. Before visiting, it is strongly recommended to check the current schedule on the official website or call the administrator.

Exploring the surroundings of Governor's Harbour will provide you with a variety of experiences beyond gastronomy. Near the restaurant, there are both magnificent pink sand beaches and intriguing historical ruins that tell the story of the island's past.