Luxury Barbados Food & Drink Holidays

Barbados cuisine is a celebration of history and diversity. Local recipes reflect a rich fusion of African, Caribbean and British influences, creating iconic Barbados foods such as flying fish paired with cou-cou, macaroni pie warmed with island spice and tender pudding and souse that speak to generations of culinary tradition. Whether you’re savouring spicy breadfruit chips from a street vendor or indulging in a Michelin star chefs tasting menu, the flavours of Barbados tell a story all of their own.

To truly experience food in Barbados, there’s no better way than by joining some of the excellent guided food tours that lead you beyond the menu into the heart of local culture. Wander through bustling food markets where fresh produce and spices set the scene for authentic Bajan cooking, or head to Oistins Fish Fry which is a Friday night institution where families and visitors alike gather for freshly grilled fish, rum punch and lively music under the stars. It’s here that the food becomes a celebration of community and heritage, awakening your palate and connecting you to Bayan island life.

No exploration of Barbados food and drink is complete without tasting the island’s legendary rum. Barbados is known as the birthplace of rum, and its distilleries offer fascinating tours that are perfect for enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. At historical estates such as Mount Gay, visitors can walk through centuries-old barrels, learn how sugarcane is transformed into golden rum and sample aged spirits that have defined the reputation of Barbados rum across the globe. Nearby, other estates and dedicated rum bars provide tastings and experiences that deepen your appreciation of this beloved spirit, from classic rum punch to nuanced aged expressions that reflect Barbados’ unique cultural heritage.

Complementing rum exploration are tours of Barbados gin distilleries, where botanicals grown on the island are expertly blended to create contemporary spirits with a Caribbean twist. These experiences showcase another exciting layer of the island’s evolving Barbados food and drink scene, inviting you to sip and savour as local distillers share their craft and creativity. Whether you prefer a refreshing gin and tonic beside the sea or an elegant tasting flight paired with artisanal bites, these tours add another dimension to your gourmet holiday in Barbados.

For lovers of fine dining, Barbados boasts an extraordinary restaurant scene that rivals any in the Caribbean. From cliff-top establishments with panoramic views to intimate eateries tucked away in historic towns, the island’s chefs combine local ingredients with international techniques to produce dishes that delight and surprise. Elegant Resorts’ hand-picked selection of resorts below provide easy access to many of the best Barbados restaurants, bars and eating establishments, some of which are even located in the individual hotels themselves. Explore our handpicked collection below to find the right resort for your Barbados food & drink holiday.

Festivals like the Barbados Food and Rum Festival turn the entire island into a gourmet playground, where celebrated chefs, local rum producers and passionate food lovers gather for days of tastings, demonstrations and celebrations of flavour. These events capture the spirit of Barbados -  where food is not simply nourishment, but a way of life and a source of joy.

Whether you’re exploring lively food markets, sipping Barbados rum at a distillery, or savouring a gourmet dinner beneath the stars, your foodie holidays in Barbados will be filled with unforgettable moments. Book your gourmet holidays in Barbados with Elegant Resorts and let the island’s flavours lead the way.

Tip: We recommend you make table reservations in advance, especially during winter.