Zagat’s Best Restaurants in Barbados – Part 1

For your Barbados restaurant ranking, Zagat information collected from 1,520 diners to judge. The following are the best in Barbados, according to Zagat. Are they really the best, the best? This is what a serious foodie…with a restaurant bill to prove it…who has eaten at these places many times has to say.

champions: Visitors and locals alike love Champers Wine Bar & Restaurant, which is why it was named ZagatBarbados’ “hottest” dining experience. It is also. You know how the most popular kid in school is remembered forever? Well, I have friends who haven’t been to Barbados in six years get off their plane from England and say, “We’re going to Champers tonight.” Consistently great seafood and service at the water’s edge on the south coast of the island. Christ Church, Rockley

The tides: Fabulous seafood in a pretty blue décor that perfectly complements the seaside setting. Great service, “always great” he says Zagat‘s of this west coast restaurant, owned by a chef. I have never been disappointed here; The Tides is always fabulous. It’s also pretty formal (for God’s sake, no flip flops). Be sure to also visit the wonderful art gallery there. Santiago, Holetown

the cliff: Popular for its romantic torch-lit cliffside location and “truly special” food, The Cliff won Zagatit scored highest for decor, noting that its service matches its creative eclectic fare. Yes, The Cliff is exceptional. What Zagat Not to mention is that this is one of the most expensive restaurants on the island; if you’re price sensitive, go to Champers instead. St. James, derricks

Zen: Go early and take a sunset stroll on the award-winning pink-sand beach at the Crane Resort, where Zen is in southeast Barbados. Unfortunately, that’s all you’ll see of the ocean because it’s not visible from most tables inside the restaurant. This is what keeps me from dining more often at this excellent restaurant. zen received ZagatBarbados’ highest score for food thanks to “simply amazing” Japanese-Thai cuisine, including amazing sushi. San Felipe, Crane Beach Hotel

Pisces: On the sea and revered for its “wonderful menu using the best local fish” and offered at “what might be considered reasonable prices for Barbados”. I agree: Pisces is also great for other reasons: it has an attractive informality; it’s within walking distance of many vacation rentals on the south shore; and, because it’s in the heart of lively St. Lawrence Gap, you can also choose from a number of other wonderful restaurants in the immediate area. My only complaint is that I have experienced very slow service at Pisces. But then we are in the Caribbean… Christ Church

Check out five more restaurants in Part 2 of my look at ZagatBarbados restaurant ratings. With options like these, any foodie visiting the island will go home happily satiated…with a restaurant bill to prove it.