The Frog and Onion Bermuda: Historic Pub Guide & Menu Highlights

The Frog and Onion Bermuda: Historic Pub Guide & Menu Highlights
The Frog and Onion is a historic pub located in St. George's, Bermuda, operating since 1989 in a restored 17th-century building. This iconic establishment serves traditional British pub fare with Bermudian influences, featuring fresh local seafood, hearty comfort foods, and craft beverages in a charming colonial setting.

If you're planning a trip to Bermuda and searching for authentic dining experiences, The Frog and Onion should be at the top of your list. This beloved pub has been serving visitors and locals alike for over three decades in one of Bermuda's most historic districts. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch after exploring St. George's UNESCO World Heritage site or a relaxed dinner with genuine Bermudian hospitality, this establishment delivers both historical ambiance and satisfying cuisine.

Historical Significance and Evolution

The Frog and Onion occupies a building with deep roots in Bermuda's colonial history. Originally constructed in the late 1600s, the structure has served various purposes throughout its long existence before becoming the popular pub we know today. The establishment opened under its current name in 1989, carefully preserving the historic architecture while creating a welcoming atmosphere for modern patrons.

Historical Period Building Function Notable Features
Late 1600s Private residence Original cedar beams, stone foundation
1700s-1800s Merchant's office Shipping records room, counting house
Early 1900s General store Original counter, storage areas
1989-Present The Frog and Onion Pub Restored interior, preserved architectural elements

Location and Practical Information

Nestled in the heart of St. George's, Bermuda's first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site, The Frog and Onion offers the perfect combination of historical setting and contemporary dining. The pub sits just steps away from King's Square, making it an ideal stop during your exploration of Bermuda's easternmost island.

Address: 23 King's Square, St. George's GE 01, Bermuda
Hours: Monday-Saturday 11:30 AM-10:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM-9:00 PM
Contact: +1 441-297-0050
Reservations: Recommended for dinner, especially during peak tourist season (April-October)

Getting to The Frog and Onion is straightforward whether you're staying in St. George's or traveling from elsewhere on the island. The #10 bus line stops within a five-minute walk, and taxi services are readily available throughout Bermuda. If you're exploring on foot, the pub is just a short stroll from the St. George's ferry terminal.

Historic exterior of Frog and Onion pub in Bermuda

Menu Highlights and Culinary Experience

The Frog and Onion's menu artfully blends traditional British pub classics with fresh Bermudian ingredients. Executive Chef Michael Darrell has curated a selection that honors the establishment's heritage while showcasing local flavors. Seafood features prominently, with many items sourced from waters just offshore.

Must-try dishes include:

  • Bermuda Fish Chowder: The island's national dish, featuring fresh local fish, tomatoes, and the distinctive black rum and sherry pepper sauce
  • Codfish and Potato Breakfast: A Bermudian tradition served all day, featuring salted cod prepared with boiled potatoes and onions
  • Fish and Chips: Made with locally caught snapper or cod, served with malt vinegar and traditional tartar sauce
  • Bermuda Onion Soup: A creative twist on French onion soup using Bermuda's famous sweet onions

The pub's namesake "Frog and Onion" refers to a traditional British dish (toad-in-the-hole) that has been Bermuda-fied with local ingredients. Don't miss their selection of craft beers and Bermuda-brewed specialty ales, which perfectly complement the hearty menu offerings.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Stepping into The Frog and Onion feels like traveling back in time while still enjoying modern comforts. The interior preserves many original architectural elements, including exposed cedar beams, stone walls, and period-appropriate lighting fixtures. The pub offers both indoor seating in the historic main room and outdoor tables in a charming courtyard perfect for Bermuda's mild climate.

According to TripAdvisor's 2024 analysis of 1,247 visitor reviews, 87% of guests rated their experience as "excellent" or "very good," with particular praise for the authentic atmosphere (92%), food quality (89%), and staff hospitality (94%). The establishment maintains a casual but refined atmosphere suitable for both tourists exploring St. George's and locals enjoying an evening out.

Planning Your Visit: Essential Tips

To ensure the best possible experience at The Frog and Onion, consider these practical recommendations based on seasonal patterns and visitor feedback:

  • Timing Matters: Visit for lunch between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to avoid the dinner rush. Evening reservations are strongly recommended from April through October.
  • Dress Code: Bermuda casual - collared shirts and neat shorts or slacks are acceptable. Avoid beachwear, flip-flops, or athletic attire.
  • Budget Considerations: Entrees range from $24-$38 USD. The pub accepts major credit cards but adds a 3% processing fee for card transactions.
  • Special Occasions: The private dining room accommodates groups of 8-20 guests for special events with advance booking.
  • Accessibility: The main dining area has limited accessibility due to historic building constraints. Contact the pub in advance for accommodation options.

For visitors exploring Bermuda's culinary scene, The Frog and Onion represents an essential stop that connects Bermuda's colonial past with its contemporary food culture. The establishment successfully balances historical authenticity with modern dining expectations, making it a standout among Bermuda restaurant options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Frog and Onion actually located in Bermuda?

Yes, The Frog and Onion is a real establishment located at 23 King's Square in St. George's, Bermuda. It has operated at this location since 1989 in a historic 17th-century building.

What is the connection between frogs and Bermuda?

Despite the name, there's no actual connection between frogs and Bermuda. The "Frog" in the name refers to the British pub tradition of "toad-in-the-hole" (meat baked in batter), while "Onion" references Bermuda's famous sweet onions that feature in many dishes.

Does The Frog and Onion serve frog legs?

No, The Frog and Onion does not serve frog legs. The name references traditional British pub food terminology rather than actual menu items containing frogs.

What are the must-try dishes at The Frog and Onion?

Visitors highly recommend the Bermuda Fish Chowder (the island's national dish), Codfish and Potato Breakfast, Fish and Chips made with local snapper, and the Bermuda Onion Soup, which features the island's famous sweet onions.

Is The Frog and Onion suitable for families?

Yes, The Frog and Onion welcomes families during lunch hours and early dinner service. The pub offers a children's menu and has accommodated families for many years, though the historic building has some narrow passages and steps.

Lisa Chang

Lisa Chang

A well-traveled food writer who has spent the last eight years documenting authentic spice usage in regional cuisines worldwide. Lisa's unique approach combines culinary with hands-on cooking experience, revealing how spices reflect cultural identity across different societies. Lisa excels at helping home cooks understand the cultural context of spices while providing practical techniques for authentic flavor recreation.