Just as the sun was setting, we decided to head to The Square in Worthing – Barbados’ top international food court. Nowhere else on the island will you find such a variety of culinary delights to cater for diverse tastes, making it the perfect hangout for groups of friends and families.

The Mount Gay Bar was our first point of call, a round of rum punches were ordered to quench our thirst and energise us for the circumnavigation of the food court to contemplate the international offerings. The rum punch was exceptional, a perfect balance of all the ingredients, thus, putting this bar high on my list of top rum punches on the island. I had the rum-fuelled ‘Basil Lemonade’ to follow which was truly scrumptious.

Expect to see some well-known restaurant brands from around the island. Ackee Tree was serving up some traditional Caribbean comfort food of Roti’s, Fishcakes, Buljol, Ackee & Saltfish and Grilled Fish with all the trimmings. For a taste of Jamaica, visit Reggae Jerk with favourites such as Curried Goat, Jerk Chicken, Bbq Ribs, Oxtail and Pigtail which will surely hit the senses. A mouthwatering Lebanese banquet was also available allowing you to team your favourite dishes such as Kebabs, Falafels, Tabouleh, Kibbes, Kofta’s and Hummus. A firm favourite of mine is The Meal Machine – people flock from all around the island for their infamous Fish & Chips, Bajan style. I love the fish wrap, as it includes crunchy salad with the sweetness of the grilled plantain – truly delicious!

Ric’s most favoured is Fire Byrd, where India meets Italy. You can find a variety of Indian spiced toppings such as Chicken Tikka on a flatbread pizza base – a marriage made in heaven! Tonight he opted for the Delhi Delight – a take of the islands classic Doubles; a flavour-packed chana masala wrap served with a tamarind chutney, yogurt raita, seasoned cucumbers and pickled onions. I tried a healthy option with Bento Box – a fresh Coconut Shrimp and Glass Noodles with crunchy Broccoli, Mango and Edamame in a spicy sauce – a bowl of heavenly goodness!

The location itself is fairly unassuming, based at what is essentially a large tarmacked car park space. However, just as the ethereal pink skies transformed to orange, then started to darken with the absence of the sunset, all the trees came alive in abundance; twinkling with little white fairy lights – and it felt magical. We sat on a table beneath a huge bearded fig tree that the children were attempting to climb. A band cam on to the stage and we were blown away by the performance of the female lead singer. There is live music on most nights with Soca, Reggae and Latina classics pumping. It was such a lovely atmosphere – with families and groups of young and older people alike enjoying the space and swaying to the beats. A dance floor area for those wanting to strut their stuff and burn off some calories, or simply throw down some Breakdancing moves as my son did; revelling in the attention from applauding onlookers.

This is a regular dining spot for us – due to the variety of food available at such great value and the general friendly, relaxed vibe and top tunes – so make sure you pop it onto your itinerary. If you want to carry on the party late into the evening you also have the option of the lively bar Mojos; a short walk down the road, also holding live music nights. Wednesday hosts their infamous reggae night, not to be missed.

VENDORS

THE SPECIFICS

Opening Times: 9am – 10.30pm everyday. (N.B. not all Vendors are open during these hours).

Pricing: Entry to the Food Court is free. Prices vary per vendor. Expect to pay $15bds+ for meals.

Parking: Parking is available across from the food court and is free of charge.

Facilities: Well-maintained toilets can be found towards the centre of the food court. A water machine has also been provided around the corner from the rest rooms, opposite the main stage.

Location: Cave Shepherd Worthing Parking Lot, Worthing, Christchurch, Barbados.