Did you know that Barbados is often described as the Caribbean’s cuisine capital? Not a lot of travelers are aware of the sterling reputation of Barbadian cuisine or that the island is home to a huge number of restaurants. Ranging from smaller beachside shacks offering the freshest seafood to high-end gourmet restaurants with world-class chefs, the dining on the island can be unforgettable.
Whether you have arranged a stay in a villa that includes the services of a chef, or you are handling this part of the stay on your own, you have to make a point of visiting some of the finest dining establishments available. We offer the following recommendations as they rate as some of the classic, local favorites as well as some lesser known gems.
The Tides
Noted as one of the hottest spots to dine throughout Barbados, the Tides is located in Holetown and is a blend of bar, restaurant and art gallery. It is located in a refurbished, WWII era home that was crafted of mahogany and coral stone. It is saturated in sea blue and green and is a place of instant enchantment. The menu is a fusion of Caribbean and European cuisines and suggestions include their Seafood Tower, Pesto rubbed Colorado Rack of Lamb, or their catch of the day.
Uncle George Fish Net Grill
The Oistins Fish Market is home to a weekly fish fry every Friday, and one of the busiest and most in demand stalls during the fry is this one. Offering “grilled to order” fish that includes tuna, flying fish, swordfish and more, it also provides each diner with a generous serving of the famous side dishes that make Barbadian cuisine unforgettable. Of course, your fish fry would be incomplete if you didn’t also savor it with a Banks beer.
Cin Cin by the Sea
A relative newcomer to the island, it already ranks as one of the best. Living up to its name, it indeed sits right above the sands in the Saint James Parish area and is an open air restaurant noted for its amazing seafood, as well as its fried king fish and jerk pork options. Gorgeous interiors pair well with their delicious and beautifully plated dinner and lunch options, and their Cin Cin Bites are a popular way to sample their offerings.
Champers
Probably the most famous Barbados restaurant, it is in the Christ Church Parish in the south and provides locals and travelers alike with stunning waterfront dining and amazing Caribbean seafood specialties. Open for lunch and dinner, they feature a signature ceviche, a popular seafood medley, and a famous coconut pie.
Island Plates
If you want to eat like a local, and even alongside the locals, this Speightstown establishment has it all. Serving iconic Barbadian dishes, it also provides lunch or dinner with a distinctive fusion spin. Many visitors pop in for coffee and a pastry, or take advantage of the restaurants frequent “taste of” events.
The Cliff
A local favorite, this picturesque Caribbean spot sites on a cliff that overlooks the sea in the Saint James Parish area of the island. It is incredibly stylish and has a distinctly international menu that is a good blend of French, Thai and Caribbean influences.
Runners up include Cariba and Scarlet in Saint James Parish, Café Luna in Christ Church and Tapas in Hastings. There are literally hundreds of restaurants in Barbados, including four and five star establishments in some of the resort areas. Those listed above are well worth a sampling, and you will never regret spending any of your holiday exploring the many other options available.
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