One of St. Thomas’s longest-standing fine restaurants, Hervé Restaurant and Wine Bar (Government Hill, 340/777-9703, ext. 11, $22–34) serves Caribbean favorites with a European touch. Entrées include pan-seared Norwegian salmon, grilled rabbit, and Creole red snapper. Budget diners can sample the world-class fare at lunch, when the menu features fresh quiche, seafood crepes, cold roast duck salad, and even a sirloin burger on a sesame-seed bun. Lunch costs $8–15. Hervé’s wine list is among the best on the island.

For classic northern Italian cuisine, come to Virgilio’s (18 Dronningen’s Gade, 340/776-4920, 11:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Mon.–Sat., $22–40). Set in the heart of historic Charlotte Amalie in a beautiful old building with vaulted ceilings, this is a romantic and sophisticated place to dine. Soft music and expert service create a refined ambience. Dinners are expertly created: lobster ravioli, rack of lamb, and some of the most luxurious desserts on the island.