Cuz’s Fish Shack
Although it might not look like much, this little shack boasts some of the best fish sandwiches you’ll ever get on any beach anywhere. They are so good that tour drivers will take visitors to the beach just for this little blue shack right beside the Hilton Resort. Locals will drive from all over Barbados to grab a bite before it shuts for the day, which is at 17:00 or when they run out of fresh fish. The dish to try is the fish sandwich, called a Cutter, which even comes with a beer. Don’t judge a book by its cover, this is a classic which you’ll always return to on every visit.
Address: Needham’s Point, Bridgetown, Barbados (beside the Hilton Barbados)
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Harbour Lights
If you’re looking for a fun night out for dinner for the entire family, then Harbour Lights is the place to go. Diners get a choice of shrimp, chicken, fish, or steak with the lively entertainment with the beach serving as a dance floor. The beach-bar themed spot is worth it for the variety of shows you get in one night, from a live band to fire dancers, limbo and Bajan dancers. Staff are very attentive and always eager to please. It’s really the only place to have great food and a full Caribbean experience all packaged together.
Address and telephone: Marine Villa, Bay Street, St. Michael, Barbados, (246) 436-7225
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Brown Sugar Restaurant
Brown Sugar Restaurant is the perfect place for visitors looking for a quieter place to enjoy Caribbean fare. The lunch service is a buffet-style, and although it’s not Bajan-style, you’ll get the taste of the Caribbean islands off the main street for a great price. The absolute must-try dishes are the Bajan Fish Cakes and the Macaroni Pie, and with it only being walking distance from the Hilton Barbados, it’s a great place to go for a cheap, but quality, lunch.
Address and telephone: Waterfront, Bridgetown, Barbados, 246) 426-7684
Zaccio’s
Zaccio’s is expert in great Bajan cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere, as this is a more traditional restaurant rather than the ‘beach bars’ that are so common in the city. If you have a picky eater in the family, then they can order more Americana-style fare like pizza, burgers, and fries while the rest can get the highly recommended Bajan-style Chicken Curry. Best of all, you get a fantastic view of the ocean and beach while you dine inside. Make sure you get there early, however, as it fills up quickly during busy hours, with or without ships in port.
Address and telephone: Holetown, Bridgetown 246, Barbados, (246) 432-1319
Waters Edge
Although part of Bougainvillea’s Resort; Water’s Edge Restaraunt and Bar is open for everyone to enjoy for a quiet afternoon tea with a beautiful view on the beach. Located in a quiet, private beach, guests can sit down on the boardwalk to enjoy freshly made scones and cakes. Foodies with appreciate the evening menu. Favourite dishes are the coconut and tomato soup, and the Calamari and Mahi Mahi in Coconut Broth. If you’re feeling like a romantic night, you can call ahead and ask about getting your own private table for two on the beach under a white tent. It’s a perfect spot for a date night before a walk on the beach.
Address and telephone: Waters Edge Restaurant, Maxwell Coast Rd, Barbados, (246) 628-1043
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The Balcony
The Balcony is a cute, small restaurant overlooking the heart of Bridgetown. It’s a perfect little place for a cheap, but tasty, lunch that even the locals go to on their breaks during the week. While it is another buffet-style serving, (most places are in the Caribbean), it’s delicious. If you have the choice pick the seats on the balcony for a great view. The dishes you need to try here are the plantains, macaroni pie, and the flying fish. Not a fish fan? There’s plenty of barbecue chicken available too. Look for the restaurant inside the Cave Shepard Department Store on the main street.
Address and telephone: The Balcony, Broad St., Bridgetown, Barbados, (246) 431-2088
Mustor’s Restaurant
If you’re in the mood for some of the best Flying Fish in Barbados, then you have to go find Mustor’s. While the place doesn’t look like anything special, you’ll get one of the best Bajan experiences you can find in Bridgetown, away from the crazy tourist-pack attractions. In fact, Mustor’s is mostly packed with locals and that’s how you know its good. Here you’re guaranteed to get some of the freshest fish on the island in versions of national dishes. If you’re looking for traditional Bajan flavors, then Mustor’s is the place to go while you meet the city’s residents.
Address: McGregor St., Bridgetown, Barbados
The Boatyard
The Boatyard is another great choice for somewhere to stop if you’re looking for a relaxing day on a beach. You can choose to get your own umbrella and chair on the beach, with a free drink, all while being served by some of the friendliest staff on the island. You pay $40 BBP per person at the door, but then you use that money inside however you want, from food to drinks to the lounger rentals. Think of it like a deposit. It’s an entire-day kind of place, where you can catch some sun, some drinks, and some great fresh food. At night, torches are lit up on the beach. You must try the coconut shrimp.
Address and telephone: Bay Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, (246) 436-2622
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Lobster Alive
Lobster Alive is a small, must-try restaurant on the outskirts of Bridgetown. You need to book ahead or come before the rush, however, as seating is extremely limited. Diners will be greeted by soft, live jazz while they enjoy all different kinds of dishes with lobster, including lobster spaghetti. Another dish you need to try is the conch samosas. The lobster will be some of the freshest you’ll find anywhere, as they’re in a tank before you order, actually ‘alive’ like the name claims.
Address and telephone: Wesley House, Bay Street, Bridgetown, Barbados, (246)435-0305
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Ambience Bar & Grill
If you need an escape from all the fish served on the island, but still want something that tastes good, then you need to find Ambience Bar & Grill. Their baked pork chops and garlic potato wedges are some of the best you’ll find anywhere. Of course, their fish (served grilled or fried) is still fantastic. While sitting inside, you’re surrounded by the sounds of the ocean, just steps away from you. This adds to the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. After your meal, you can leave out the back door for a quiet walk down the beach. While mostly visited by tourists, it’s a calming little spot where you can get out of the sun with your family leaving happy.
Address and telephone: Bay Street, St. Michael, Bridgetown, Barbados , (246) 622-1229