NORTHWEST COAST. Amazonia is a traditional Brazilian steakhouse, but the décor and ambience are decidedly island contemporary. Be prepared to consume vast quantities of meat here ­ there are typically about 15 different varieties, from top sirloin and filet mignon to Brazilian sausage and garlic picanha. Accompany all this meat with a trip or two to the impressive salad bar, which has enough variety to be a meal in itself, and is a great option for vegetarians. Other side dish options might be cheese bread, mashed potatoes, fried plantains and grilled pineapple. There are a number of good desserts too, should you actually have room for one more bite.

GREATER ORANJESTAD. This casual Cuban eatery is a favorite among island visitors and locals. Munch on fried plantain chips and salsa as you peruse the menu. The Confusion de Empanadas is a treat ­ a sampler platter of meat pies are filled with seasoned beef, chicken or seafood. Or be adventurous and try the Cuban sashimi. Seafood is "cooked" ceviche-style using limejuice. The fried calamari and Cuban sandwiches also win raves. Part of this restaurant's charm is the décor. Housed in an old colonial home built in 1877, bright artwork decorates the walls and there is often live music that adds to the warm, comfortable vibe. Casual attire.

GREATER ORANJESTAD. Prepare for an excellent dining experience at one of Aruba's favorite restaurants for the past 20 years. Though the pork and seafood are delicious (try the Caribbean seafood combination of conch, squid, shrimp and fish) the real stars here are the juicy, perfectly grilled Argentinean steaks. The restaurant boasts an excellent wine cellar, and they have an especially good collection of hearty reds to accompany your steak. For dessert try the helado argentio for something different ­ vanilla ice cream is served with a sweet-potato marmalade and caramel.

NORTHWEST COAST. You might be on Aruba, but a trip to Tango may feel like a trip to South America. You'll want to start the meal off right with a big platter of Argentine sausages; stick with the theme and order the churrasco beef, douse it with piquant chimichurri sauce, and wash it all down with a robust Chilean wine. Inside tables benefit from a great view of a very talented couple that tangos across the stage, plus a view of the nine-foot open grill where all the meat is cooked. Outside seating isn't neglected though ­ a band plays in the brick courtyard every night at 8pm.

GREATER ORANJESTAD. Few restaurants can compete with the atmosphere ­ and, yes, the cuisine ­ of this colorful chain of Brazilian-style churrascarias. A family-friendly ambience pervades as diners enjoy a feast for the ages, one that features gaucho-wearing servers circling the South American-themed dining room with mouthwatering skewers of seasoned beef, chicken, lamb, pork and Brazilian sausage. Just pick what you want, and they're happy to serve it up. Added temptations are Texas-sized side dishes like garlic mashed potatoes and sweet fried bananas ­ the extravagant salad bar has been known to turn heads as well.