Barbados – Part 3 – Oistin’s

Oistins, in the southern parish of Christ Church, is a major fishing community in Barbados with a modern fishing market. On Friday night particularly, the big thing to do is go to the fish fry at Oistins Bay Gardens. The food is the main draw – excellent fish, (tuna, swordfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, flying fish), lobster, chicken etc. served in an extremely informal setting. One of the most atmospheric, cultural and rewarding eating experiences on the island, Oistins Fish Fry attracts thousands of local people and visitors. A cluster of beachside shacks fill up with hungry customers to feast on fresh fish – grilled, baked or fried – served with a choice of macaroni pie, rice or coleslaw. You can get your fish grilled or fried depending on which vendor you choose from. It’s all cooked on the spot in front of you.

Of course we went to Oistin’s. And we went on a Friday night too. The place was hoppin’. Pat’s was the place we chose, which we found out later, is THE spot to go to. But you have to go early if you want a spot to sit down and enjoy your meal.

While Larry was in line to order our food, I went to one of the other vendors for some rum punch. These gentlemen all highly recommended the rum punch from this vendor too.

All the seating at Oistin’s is open seating under tents.

We dined like the locals, and enjoyed some grilled marlin and some fried flying fish, one of Barbados’ National dishes. Both were very good. It was caught fresh and fried right there in front of us on open grills.

Some of the sights and other locals around Oistin’s.

They all wanted some fresh fish too.

This guy is just lucky he wasn’t on the menu.

We went to Oistin’s one more time, but it was not nearly as alive as it was on the first night, a Friday night. Friday nights are definitely the nights to go.