Our Story

There’s something magical about dining by the sea, and at Mim’s Seaside Bistro, the view is just as unforgettable as the food.

At Mim’s Seaside Bistro, it’s all about family. For over three decades, the Defreitas family has proudly shared their love for great food and hospitality with locals and visitors alike. Now, under the leadership of our manager, Leechang, we continue to carry on the legacy of excellence, warm service, and unforgettable dining. At Mim’s, we don’t just serve meals – we welcome you into our family. Our long-time staff members, like Joan, Helena (affectionately known as "Bubbles"), and Leechang, have spent years perfecting the art of personalized service. They’re more than just servers – they’re storytellers, caretakers, and the smiling faces that make Mim’s feel like home.

Every meal at Mim’s is crafted with care. We take pride in crafting dishes that showcase the finest local ingredients and fresh seafood straight from the surrounding waters. Our menu celebrates the rich flavors of the Caribbean, from our signature Coconut Curry Lobster, a dish that has become a local legend, to our expertly grilled fresh catch of the day, always served with a tropical twist.

Our Seafood Specialties:

  • Coconut Curry Lobster – A must-try dish featuring tender lobster medallions sautéed in a creamy coconut curry sauce with garlic, tomatoes, mushrooms, and onions. Each bite is a rich and flavorful tribute to the island’s bounty.

  • Baked Stuffed Lobster – Stuffed with a delectable mixture of shrimp, peppers, and herbs, this dish is a seafood lover’s dream, served with drawn butter for an extra touch of indulgence.

  • Grilled Mahi Mahi – Light, fresh, and perfectly grilled, our Mahi Mahi is topped with brie cheese and mango chutney for a balance of sweet and savory flavors.

  • Seafood Bouillabaisse – A vibrant, flavorful stew brimming with the freshest treasures of the sea! This rich, aromatic broth is infused with herbs, spices, and the essence of the ocean, creating the perfect base for tender lobster, plump mussels, succulent calamari, and savory octopus. Each spoonful is a symphony of flavors that transports you straight to the heart of the Caribbean.

But we don’t stop at seafood. Our menu also offers a wide selection of hand-cut steaks, juicy chicken dishes, and creative pastas, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re craving a hearty steak cooked to perfection, a delicate pasta dish, or one of our refreshing salads, Mim’s has it all.

  • Mim & Jerry Defreitas

    FOUNDERS & RESTAURATEURS

    Mim and Jerry Defreitas are the heart and soul behind Mim’s Seaside Bistro, the ultimate tropical island dining destination. For over 30 years, they have proudly welcomed guests to enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean with a focus on first-class service, consistency, and creating memorable dining experiences. Their philosophy is simple: treat every guest like family, offering exceptional value and hospitality in a setting as breathtaking as the food. Mim and Jerry’s love for travel and dining informs every dish, ensuring that each visit to Mim’s is an unforgettable journey for your taste buds. Join them for dinner, and experience the legacy that has made Mim’s a beloved fixture on St. Thomas for three decades.

  • Leechang

    MANAGER

    Leechang has lived and breathed the essence of Mim’s Seaside Bistro from a young age, growing up in the family business and learning every aspect of the restaurant inside and out. Starting as a waitress while working her way through college, she has become the heartbeat of the restaurant, ensuring that every guest is treated like family. Leechang’s hands-on approach and deep understanding of both front and back-of-house operations allow her to maintain the exceptional quality and warmth Mim’s is known for. Whether it’s greeting guests with a smile or ensuring every plate is perfect, Leechang’s passion for hospitality makes every dining experience at Mim’s truly special.

  • Joan

    HEAD WAITRESS

    For over a decade, Joan has been the welcoming face and steady hand that has earned her the title of “Gem” at Mim’s Seaside Bistro. As a nurse by day and head waitress by night, Joan brings a caring touch to every interaction, ensuring that guests feel at home from the moment they walk in. Her dedication to service goes beyond just delivering meals – Joan takes pride in creating connections with new and returning guests alike. Famous for her warm demeanor and expert baking skills, Joan’s homemade butterscotch walnut bread pudding has become a crowd favorite. Join us at Mim’s and ask for Joan – she’ll take care of you like family!

  • Helena "Bubbles"

    WAITRESS

    Known affectionately as “Bubbles” for her effervescent personality, Helena has been an integral part of the Mim’s family for over 8 years. Her warm smile and infectious energy light up the restaurant, ensuring that every guest feels like they’ve found a home away from home. Helena’s motherly nature and attention to detail make her the perfect hostess, always going the extra mile to create a welcoming and comfortable environment for everyone who walks through the door. With Bubbles on the floor, you’re sure to leave Mim’s not just satisfied but smiling!