Motu Bar in Cruz Bay Serving Up Classic Caribbean Cocktails with Twist

Lounge at Motu Bar next to Low Key Watersports.

With cocktails like the vodka, cucumber and mint “Motu-ijto” and the ginger infused “Motu-tini” it won’t be long before Cruz Bay’s newest lounging and liming spot is no longer a local’s secret.

Dawn Burgess and Jimmy Neighbors opened Motu Bar on the deck of the new Low Key Watersports building right across the street from Cruz Bay Beach a little over a week ago and word is already getting out about the great breezes and even better drinks.

“It’s definitely kind of a lounge feel,” said Burgess, who has been on St. John for six years and obviously learned about the ins and outs of island hospitality at Woody’s Seafood Saloon, where she worked for five and half years.

Movable wicker separate couch pieces with bright turquoise cushions beckon passersby to the deck just off the new Low Key store. Grab a stool at the stone bar or relax on one of the couches and soak up the breeze off the water. Listen to the waves crashing on the beach just across the road and order up one of Motu’s signature drinks.

“We’re doing classic island cocktails with a lighter twist,” said Burgess. “Instead of a regular mojito, for instance, we have one with vodka and cucumber, which is light and refreshing. All of our drinks are light and beachy and summery.”

Another libation not to miss is what Burgess calls the “Sexy Bellini” a half raspberry daiquiri floated in a flute of sparkling wine. The frozen part of the drink slowly melts, keeping the champagne chilled and just sweet enough to fit the Bellini bill.

Looking for something a little more decadent? Try one of Burgess’ gourmet bushwhackers. Choose from peanut butter, double stuff — made with Oreo cookies — or an Italian bushwhacker, whipped up with creamy Nutella.

For those looking for something a little less frou frou, grab a frosty mug and call it good. Motu Bar is also serving up draft beer from St. John Brewers. Last week, the bar was pouring Summer Ale and Green Flash, but the offerings will change, Burgess explained.

Burgess will also be changing up her wine offerings routinely, she added.

“We started out offering a few wines and then a bunch of people requested chardonnay, so we added that,” said Burgess. “We’ll be changing our wine selection. So if you don’t see something you like, just ask.”

While there is no kitchen at Motu Bar, patrons can nosh on chips and snack bags available or order food from nearby Banana Deck, which will deliver right to the bar stool.

Burgess is still putting the finishing touches on the bar’s new website, but fans can find them on Facebook or just stop by the deck, grab a libation and relax. Motu Bar is also available for private functions, from bridal showers to cocktail parties.

“It’s a great place to watch the sunset,” said Burgess.

And what bride-to-be wouldn’t love sipping on a Sexy Bellini and watching the Caribbean sun sink below the horizon.

For more information on Motu Bar call Burgess at 407-758-6924.