Above: The distinctive logo at Mim’s Seaside Bistro features signature dishes: baked stuffed lobster and coconut curry lobster.
Top of the page: When it comes to luscious lobster and other spectacular entrees, Mim’s Seaside Bistro is the place to be on St. Thomas.
A Flamboyan favorite, Mim’s Seaside Bistro is a sparkling gem of a restaurant offering American cuisine with special emphasis on seafood. The tropical setting is further enhanced by a gracious and accommodating staff.
Behind the scenes, fresh local lobsters are brought directly to shore by seasoned fishermen who share a loyal association with the bistro.
House specialties include coconut curry lobster and baked stuffed lobster, as well as flavorful meats, creative pasta dishes, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Seating selections offer a tropical outdoor patio, festively lit al fresco dining room, or intimate bar.
Just recently, Mim’s hit a landmark date. June 15, 2022 marked the 30th anniversary of the popular enterprise. What an impressive achievement!
Said ever-upbeat proprietor Mim Defreitas, “I think at Mim’s. we are just such a happy place.”
That joy was first defined three decades ago when. as a young entrepreneur, Mim signed papers acquiring the eatery formerly known as On The Rocks, located at Watergate Villas.
“There were several other interested parties when the property became available but I submitted a really good business plan,” said Mim. With a nostalgic smile, she added, “I told the decision-maker I was the one … I was his girl.”
Above: Devoted staff member Helena Lewis gives a heartfelt 30th-anniversary hug to Mim Defreitas at Mim’s Seaside Bistro.
Above: Ever-gracious restaurateur, Mim Defreitas, poses by a celebratory banner at the entrance to Mim’s Seaside Bistro.
At the time, Mim was working as a server at neighboring Bolongo Bay Beach. Her successful acquisition was a dream come true — with sizable challenges and responsibilities. Obviously, Mim was up to the task.
Mim explained that her business philosophy has always revolved around consistency. “We do specials but our loyal customers know they can always come here and enjoy their favorites,” she said. A long-standing weekly tradition is Thursday’s all-you-can-eat shrimp night.
In addition to her multi-talented husband, Jerry, as time went by other family members joined the team. Eldest son, Jerry Jr. — now studying to become a pilot in Florida — worked at the restaurant for a few years.
The couple’s niece, Leechang Defreitas, also pitched in while studying at the University of the Virgin Islands.
“I’m so proud of my niece,” said Mim. “She earned degrees in marketing as well as accounting.” Today, Leeching manages the restaurant.
Whether patrons are celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a luscious meal by the water’s edge, Mim’s always accommodates. No wonder Mim’s enjoys endless accolades from so many friends and local residents.
A recent Trip Advisor review reads, “You will love Mim’s. A great meal all around … from appetizers to dessert. Amazing ocean views and the service was excellent. The Mahi was delicious … Staff top-notch… we felt well taken care of. I highly recommend Mim’s.”
Above: Mim’s Seaside Bistro is tucked away in Watergate Villas where patrons enjoy dining at the water’s edge.
Above: Jammese Burns pours champagne for Flamboyan Resort staffers Tracy Wayman and Carla Gifft at the 30th-anniversary celebration of Mim’s Seaside Bistro.
On a personal note, Mim and Jerry also have a son, Thomas, now in his senior year of college at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
Cheers to the entire Defreitas family and everyone on staff at Mim’s!
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