For those that don't know -- Charlie's Bar has been part of San Nicholas for well over 70 years now. In that respect, it's far more of a historic landmark than a tourist destination. It has seen the development of the nearby refinery and has catered to generations of locals in the area. Yes, this bar is located down the street from the red light district but the area is safe and brothels are not part of the bar's identity.
There's no disco ball here -- no karaoke night, no tequila shot specials. If that's what you're looking for, you may consider confining yourself to the north side of the island. What Charlie's offers is a glimpse into the history of Lago and Sierra Colorado. You can have a drink in the bar that some of the first American's frequented during the island's rich history of industrial growth.
If you are realistic about your expectations of the place, and go there with the mindset that this won't be a Chili's -- then I think you'll rather enjoy it.
This is clearly not a five-star restuarant and hasn't won any Michelin stars. Perhaps the menu selection isn't as extensive as one would like but the shrimp and accompanying sauce is outstanding but the prices are commeserate to the value of the food, in my opinion.
The highlight of my trip to Aruba is Charlies. I fell in love with the bar many years ago. You will not find a burger and fries here. As the menu states "go to Wendy's" for that. I still dream about the Baracuda I had there over 3 years ago. I think Louie cooked it on the grill that day. Louie and Charlie are the nicest , most non rude people you would want to meet.
