While on a recent visit to Barbados the Exceptional Villas team experienced some of the best cuisines Barbados has to offer. Although we have our own wonderful Chef Stephensen at Smugglers Cove 6 we couldn’t resist dining out.
There is an abundance of fine dining in Barbados, with a cosmopolitan blend of cuisine, from local Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Italian dishes, to name but a few. While dining in Barbados you are guaranteed to find something to satisfy your appetite. We enjoyed some fantastic meals in gorgeous beachfront restaurants, oceanfront cafes and we even had something to eat in a Rum Shack!
Here are some of our favourite Barbados restaurants.
Daphne’s Restaurant, Paynes Bay, St James, Barbados
Three of us dined in Daphne’s Restaurant located right on Paynes Bay. We walked along Paynes Bay beach which took about 5 minutes from Smugglers Cove to get to this stunning beachfront restaurant.
I had the Catch of the Day with Bajan Seasoning, Mediterranean Salsa and Green Pea and Potato Mash. It was to die for; the fish dish was so fresh and cooked to perfection. My colleagues had the lamb which was presented beautifully and we also had the blackened Dorado with Mixed Peas Rice, Garlic Broccoli and Carrots and Ginger Puree. Yummy!
We enjoyed the main course so much that we couldn’t resist a dessert so we decide to share one. A lot of the Bajan dessert consists of their famous Mount Gay Rum, so we decided to try a Rum Crème Brûlée with Banana Flambé it was scrumptious!
Overall we had a fabulous meal with great service. It was wonderful to work off the dessert by enjoying a walk along the beach back to the villa.
The Beach House, Holetown, St James, Barbados
Renowned chef, Paul Owens, formerly the Executive Chef at The Cliff Restaurant for over 25 years, has created The Beach House. Along with a wonderful and dedicated team of chefs and in-house staff, this fantastic restaurant has become one of our new favourites.
Boasting a wonderful oceanfront location, this restaurant offers some of the most stunning ocean views which you can enjoy while indulging in the creative and inspired meals you will be served here. The Beach House is quintessentially Caribbean and will provide you and your guests with a unique and superb dining experience.
PAUL OWENS at The Beach House
Sunset Crest, Holetown, Barbados Tel +246 432 1163
Round House Restaurant, Bathsheba, St Joseph, Barbados
On a wet a windy day in Barbados (which doesn’t happen too often) we were driving on the east coast and stumbled upon a little restaurant overlooking the beach and ocean in Bathsheba. The Round House was such a treat. We enjoyed the beautiful location and sea views, the fantastic Jazz player and singer and the food was exceptional too.
We were dining out that night too so we decided to opt for some sandwiches. We had a Flying Fish Sandwich and Classic double-decker chicken sandwich. When it arrived we had some French fries on the side but also we were given some homemade breadfruit chips with spicy aioli which were really nice.
Although we didn’t have their signature dish of a pulled pork sandwich (Local pork slow-braised in saints beer, fresh herbs and spices and topped with caramelized onions and garlic aioli) it looked scrumptious.
Sandy Lane Hotel, Sandy Lane, St James, Barbados
We made a booking at the exclusive Sandy Lane hotel and dined there for lunch. We started with cocktails, they were simply delicious. The food was delicious and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Located right on the beach with a fabulous sea view it is just a perfect setting for a light lunch or evening dinner. Be sure to make a reservation or will not be able to enter the hotel.
Quattro Passi at The Cliff
Quattro Passi at The Cliff is now under new ownership and has been completely renovated. The restaurant is due to open in December 2021 and will be super modern with a large indoor air-conditioned section. You can also enjoy a drink from the original terrace which overlooks the Cliff. Quattro Passi will be ideal for large family gatherings or parties as they have a large function area.
Not only is Quattro Passi at The Cliff the best restaurant in Barbados, but it is also my favourite in the world and is featured in my Essential Barbados Travel Guide. The second you step through the doors, you will know you have arrived somewhere special.
The use of huge flaming torches enhances the atmosphere. The sea is beautifully illuminated, and the lights attract huge tarpons that swim elegantly in front of you as you are eating the most exquisite food. I had the open ravioli of Shrimp with pesto sauce and aged Parmesan followed by mahi-mahi with Mushroom Duxelle, spinach and a Parmesan sauce. Both were delicious and as gorgeous as the view.
Quattro Passi at The Cliff is not a cheap night out, but if you want to have a special experience while dining in Barbados, then the Cliff never disappoints. If you love the Cliff and want to stay close by the beautiful Sandycove Penthouse is right next door!
The Cliff, Derricks, St James, West Coast Tel + 236 233 5869
Some other restaurants we have been to on previous visits that I would also recommend:
- Il Tempio – Authentic Italian cuisine in a beachside setting
- The Tides – Gorgeous location right on the water’s edge serving European dishes
- Lone Star – Really nice local cuisine in a beachfront setting
- Nishi – Holetown famous sushi restaurant
- Zaccios – Great for Pizza and pasta in the evening menu
- Flindt – The best pastries in Holetown
You can read more about some of our favourite restaurants in our Essential Barbados Travel Guide.
Have I missed one of your favourite restaurants in Barbados? Do you have any recommendations for us? If so; please share your thoughts and leave us a comment?
About Linda Browne
Linda is the General Manager for Exceptional Villas and has an in-depth knowledge of the travel industry. Linda's qualifications are in the area of business, marketing and tourism. Linda travels for much of the year inspecting all of our luxury villas; the majority of her time is spent in the Caribbean and Europe.