Practical information : Eating out Barbados
Timetable
In general, restaurants are open for lunch from 11am until mid-afternoon, and open early for dinner, from 5pm until 9-10pm. Closing days depend on the establishment.
Budget & Tips
Eating out in Barbados is relatively expensive (as is the case on many islands), especially when many ingredients have to be imported. Expect to pay around €27 for a dish in a good restaurant. On the plus side, portions are quite generous and if you can't finish, you'll be offered a doggy-bag (and if you're not, don't hesitate to ask).
For those on a smaller budget or just for a quick bite, there are plenty of small restaurants, cafés, street food stands and rum shops, especially in the city. And of course, there's always Chefette, Barbadian Mc Donald's. This is your chance to try out everyday Bajan cuisine.
Almost all establishments accept credit cards, but always keep some cash on you, especially in the smaller establishments.
What costs extra
In restaurants, you'll always be offered a carafe of water as soon as you reach your table. Gratuities and taxes are included in the bill, although in some cases, when you pay with a card, the terminal will prompt you to add a tip. You can always accept or refuse. It all depends on the quality of service you receive.
The local way
In local restaurants, Saturday is often the day of the national dish: cou-cou with gravy and fried flying fish (when in season), while on Sundays it's pudding and souse that take pride of place. Souse " is essentially marinated pork (various parts such as feet, ears, snout) and "pudding" is steamed sweet potato.
To be avoided
If you're sensitive to spices, be careful with chili-based sauces - they're hot. Ask for advice before ordering, or mention it to the restaurant staff.
Unlike some destinations, the water that comes out of the tap, largely filtered by the coral rock and drawn from Barbados' aquifers, is perfectly drinkable. Don't hesitate to fill up your water bottles and add ice cubes to your drinks.
Kids
Children are welcome in restaurants (except in some resorts, which are adults-only). Even fine addresses like Champers, in Rockley, or The Tides in Holetown, have a dedicated children's menu.
Smokers
Smoking is prohibited inside restaurants.
