Embark on a gastronomical journey to Barbados in 2018 as they welcome ‘The Year of Culinary Experiences’ to the well-adored island.
Laying claim to Barbados’ reputation as Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, the year ahead promises a compilation of mouth-watering festivities that flirt with authentic Bajan flavours and spices. From fresh fish cutters served in a beach shack, a candlelit dinner on a cliff edge overlooking Barbados’ crystal blue waters to spa treatments that use the natural elements of home-grown Sugar, there is plenty to savour (beyond the menu!)
Here is a rundown of some of the highlights of 2018’s Year of Culinary Experiences:
Oistins Fish Festival
Over the years, Oistins has become a culinary and cultural fusion of flavours enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. The annual fish festival, held over Easter weekend, will be one of the highlights of Barbados’ culinary calendar. Fresh fish and other delicacies, grilled and drizzled with the unique tastes of Barbados are a must for any food-lover. Plus, this year’s new and improved festival promises to bring even more zest to the open-air spectacle.
Authentic Eats
Experience the real delights of Bajan gastronomy across the island, with a vast selection of rum shops and eateries serving up authentic delights. Visitors can chat with the locals whilst feasting on freshly cooked local dishes, such as pepper pot, cou cou and flying fish or take a trip to Chicken Rita, Lexie’s Bar, Cuz’s Fish Shack and one of the oldest rum shop on the island John Moore, to name but a few. A trip to the island would not be complete without a visit to Oistins Fish Fry on a Friday night for some of the best Bajan delicacies, made with the daily fresh catch from the nearby fish market. Complemented by firing barbeques, artisanal markets, an evening breeze from the coastline and the sound of indigenous music and dance from afar.
Barbados Food and Rum Festival
Savour the local and traditional flavours of Barbadian cuisine, at this year’s Barbados Food and Rum Festival, 18-21 October 2018. Join world-class chefs as they carousal authentic flavours or quench your thirst by tasting strong, tropical cocktail blends by wellknown mixologists. Rumoured to be attending this year’s festivities are Dameain Williams, Jamaal Bowel, Willis
Griffith and Damian Leach who have all travelled around the world demonstrating their flair in the kitchen and behind the bar. Whilst one needs no excuse to visit the Caribbean oasis, washing down local
favourites and beautiful creations made by some of the best international and local chefs, with an eclectic mix of rum cocktails is the perfect culinary adventure.
Dine around
In addition to the matchless authentic eats found across the island, what makes Barbados’ culinary landscape so special is the diversity of gastronomic fare found in its 166 square miles. From the West Coast to the South Coast, from Italian to American, there is something
for every palate. To help diners manoeuvre the vast terrain, we will also be promoting the re-DISCOVER programme, which offers attractive specials at participating restaurantsthroughout the year.
Plantation Great House Feast
An evening of history and elegance awaits visitors as Barbados promises an experience like no other. Inviting guests to dine in one of the islands most well preserved Plantation Great Houses, Sunbury Plantation, St Philip the banquet provides the perfect fusion of West African and British Culture as it showcases world-class gastronomy in an intimate setting.
Available every Tuesday between January 2018 to April 2018, guests will be welcomed with a pre-dinner cocktail before discovering hidden treasures from the past. Poised to indulge your palette, a five-course meal will follow, showcasing all the distinctive and delicious Bajan specialties on offer.
New dining experiences
What does an island with numerous savoury dining experiences love? More. New additions to the culinary landscape are widely celebrated, and of note are two new restaurants, both located in the quaint historic village of Speightstown. Hugo’s Barbados opened its doors in late 2017. The contemporary turquoisethemed, beach inspired restaurant offers spectacular views and international cuisine. Not far away, The Top Deck by
acclaimed local chef Jason Howard, is scheduled to open a week from today on Valentine’s night. Overlooking the calm West Coast waters, The Top Deck promises fresh, authentic Caribbean cuisine, featuring the best in local produce
Dinner with George Washington
Re-wind time every Monday of Sugar and Rum Season as you step into the world of 1751, for an authentic dining experience with George Washington. In celebration of the historical value of Caribbean culture, the feast invites guests to indulge in the wine, rum and local juices of Bajan life amid vintage grounds and a courtyard of flaming torches. In a faultless
replica of 18th century Barbados, the production mimics what George Washington would have eaten which is poised to delight your taste buds!
