This is a big year for Barbados’ culinary scene: From October 24 to 27, the annual Barbados Food and Rum Festival returns for its 10th edition!
Staying true to its Bajan roots and focusing on local culinary and cocktail talent (and its first year completely centered around its unique history with rum), the festival offers visitors a tailored experience that actually utilizes the local community.
[Fish cakes; photo © Khiry Cummings]
All events take place in popular local haunts and feature local chefs and mixologists, providing the opportunity for visitors to mingle with locals and truly understand Bajan hospitality and its welcoming culture.
Home to the world’s oldest rum (dating to 1703), the tasty libation is perfectly suited to this year’s theme: The Story of Rum… from Then to Now. Numerous rum concoctions will be available alongside beach parties, live music and other cultural festivities.
[St. Nicholas Abbey Rum; photo © Khiry Cummings]
You’ll learn why Barbados is known as the “Birthplace of Rum” and maybe even get a chance to chat with the first female Master Blender of Rum, Trudiann Branker, a prestigious role at Mount Gay Distillery.
Barbados is the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean and for good reason! The island produces great Caribbean chefs and outstanding dishes with a raw fusion of African, Caribbean, West Indian and European cuisine, making Bajan food both exquisite and flavourful.
Food truck vendors, luxury restaurants and Michelin star chefs will join together to celebrate the unforgettable tastes of Barbados. And don’t forget the rum! Each of these diverse offerings pairs exceptionally with a cool rum punch in your hand.
Each year, Barbados hosts world renowned chefs — while this year’s list of local chefs has yet to be made public, previous culinary headliners from around the globe have included Michelin-star Chef Tom Aikens, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Chef Chris De La Rosa, and local culinary star, Chef Damian Leach (awarded for Caribbean Chef of the Year in 2016 and 2018).
This is by far the best time to experience the culinary capital of the Caribbean and the birthplace of rum. Here’s a sampling of this year’s highlights:
Night Out in Oistins
The festival starts with a free open-air fish fry in the historic beachside village of Oistins. Witness local chefs preparing fresh, grilled treats under the stars, and relish one of the island’s most talked about experiences of cultural and culinary fusion.
Embark on a Gourmet Safari
If the way to your heart is through your stomach, then follow it to the coast. Diners can order Barbados cuisine and rum at their favourite restaurants across the island, boasting dishes especially created for the event.
Food Truck Fandom
This year, the festival launches a Food Truck Mash-Up to be held at the newly-renovated Pelican Craft Village. All the best street food in one location!
Visit Food and Rum Festival online for tickets and more info.
Photos courtesy of Tourism Barbados.
