Fine Dining in Barbados (with Hammerton Barbados)

BASINGSTOKE, U.K. - Aug. 2, 2017 - PRLog -- Mark and Lisa Hammerton, founders of Hammerton Barbados, own a small property on the island and spend as much time there as they can, which means that, unlike many other UK based tour operators, they are constantly in tune with what are the best restaurants and bars to visit.

Here are Mark and Lisa's recommendations of the best places to enjoy fine dining, Barbadian style, based on their own experiences.

The Cliff, Derricks, St James, Barbados

The Cliff has been the stand-out restaurant in Barbados for many years and it continues to impress. The setting is dramatic and the food is perfect with deserts a triumph (not always true of even the best restaurants in Barbados). The three-course menu is BDS$310 (a little over £100) so by the time you've added pre-dinner cocktails, a good bottle of wine, service charge etc., the bill can be hefty. But it's worth every penny and the experience will be a highlight of any holiday meal.

The Tides, Holetown, St James, Barbados

From the moment you leave your car with the valet on arrival at The Tides, to the good-night exchanges with chef/owner Guy Beasley as you leave, the friendliness of the staff is exceptional.  The menu reflects a passion for seafood but is wide enough to cater for all tastes and all dishes reflect the vibrant colours of Barbados. The restaurant is open and airy with the waterfront tables dotted amongst old trees which from part of the building's structure. We recommend arriving early and enjoying a cocktail in the bar, which also doubles as a gallery for some of the best art on the island (a great place to pick up a meaningful souvenir!).

The Lone Star, Mount Standfast, St James, Barbados

The Lone Star sits in an idyllic position on one of the best beaches in Barbados – Alleynes Bay, and continues to be a magnet for famous names (there is a good chance you will recognise at least one of your fellow diners if you visit).  The menu has a slight Italian influence but also features classic English dishes (with a fine dining twist): chicken tikka curry, shepherd's pie and beer-battered cod and chips. There is also a children's menu and a lighter lunch menu, which even features sandwiches and pizzas. It is the Lone Star's setting which really sets it apart; if you arrive by car you will descend the stairs with the most magnificent view of the beach and ocean ahead but you can also arrive at the restaurant from the beach and wash the sand from between your toes with the footbath provided.

Daphne's, Paynes Bay, St James, Barbados

Daphne's is another old favourite; the food has always been excellent but the service has been patchy at times.  On our last couple of visits, however, we have been really pleased with our experience and it is now firmly back on our list of top restaurants in Barbados. Daphne's has a very explicit Italian influence with pasta and risotto options (either as starter or main course) and a wide range of optional side dishes in the Italian tradition. The waterside location is perfect and the general ambience relatively relaxed.

The Cliff Beach Club, Derricks, St James, Barbados

Not to be confused with The Cliff mentioned above, The Cliff Beach Club is a relatively new establishment, which adjoins its famous sister and shares its efficient valet parking service. The setting is stunning and the décor modern and stylish but the vibe is more casual and relaxed which we particularly like. It is worth arriving a little early and spending some time at the friendly bar, which overlooks the restaurant before your meal. The menu includes lighter options, particularly welcome at lunch, but flavours and presentation are top notch. Prices are more on a par with The Tides or Lone Star and we think The Cliff Beach Club is now well worth including on a list of restaurants to visit during a stay on the island.

Hammerton Caribbean has a portfolio of almost 200 properties, from small apartments, ideal for romantic couples, to sprawling, colonial-style mansions, suitable for two or three families wishing to go away together.

Prices start at ££1750 (£218.75 per person) for a week staying at Lantana 2 (https://www.hammertonbarbados.com/villas/lantana-2), a smart, four-bedroomed apartment in St. James.

To see all the properties in the collection CLICK HERE (https://www.hammertonbarbados.com/villas).

Call 0800 368 9626 (www.hammertonbarbados.com).