Just like the Barbadian lifestyle, the food here combines diversity, excitement and easy-going comfort. Bajan food is a kind of fusion cuisine; an eclectic mix of African, European, Indian, Chinese and the wider Caribbean foods. This means it’s flavoursome, exotic and more than a little spicy. Bajan Seasoning, which is a fine blend of spices, is used quite commonly in local dishes and you’ll find a huge prevalence for zesty sauces to be placed on everything – even on the fast food staples you know.
Fresh seafood is readily available and fish is a part of many of the traditional Bajan meals. Make sure you try the ‘flying fish cutter’ – a kind of fried fish sandwich that’s utterly delicious. The national dish is known as ‘Cou Cou and Flying Fish’ and should definitely be sampled if you get the opportunity. Aside from its plentiful, excellent value local food, Barbados also does gourmet cuisine better than almost anywhere else in the Caribbean. The Cliff is one of the most famous restaurants – a beautiful beachside property serving up elegant meals in modern chic. You’ll find it on the west coast between Bridgetown and Holetown, and reservations are strongly recommended.
Even if you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, it is worth venturing into a nearby town to sample the culinary delights on offer. Dining out is not very expensive with typical mid-market restaurants costing less than £20 per head. It’s worth noting that restaurants often don’t open for breakfast, and those that do often open late, around 9am.
Rum is hugely popular in Barbados; there are three dedicated distilleries and a huge number of dedicated rum bars – if you love rum there’s truly nowhere better than here. Mount Gay Rum is produced here and is believed to be the oldest rum company in the world.
If you’re staying on the South Coast or if it’s at least in travelling distance, then it’s worth heading to St Lawrence Gap to sample the vibrant nightlife. And on a Friday night, you can’t miss the Oistins Fish Fry – a beachside party with barbequed fish, calypso rhythms and dressed-up locals dancing the night away.
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