Andros follows the rest of The Bahamas in its cuisine. Conch, in all its many variations, is the staple of most diets, along with heaping portions of peas 'n' rice, johnnycake, and pig or chicken souse.
Emerald Palms Resort, outside Congo Town (tel. 242/369-2661), is the best place to dine in South Andros. Eating here is pay-as-you-go rather than inclusive. Guests are usually out touring at lunchtime. However, nonguests can also visit this hotel for dinner, paying from $25 to $45 (£13-£24) per person.
If you're touring the island during the day, you'll find some local spots that serve food. If business has been slow at some of these little places, however, you might find nothing on the stove. You take your chances. On Mangrove Cay, try Dianne Cash's Total Experience, Main Road (tel. 242/369-0430), where you can sample Dianne's version of baked crab backs served with peas 'n' rice. Don't plan on dropping by this place without some kind of advance notification, though.