10 Culinary Journeys to Savor the True Flavors of the Caribbean

2. Taste Flying Fish and Cou Cou in Barbados' Fish Markets

Barbados is famous for its flying fish—delicate, flavorful, and central to the island’s identity—and nowhere is this more evident than at Oistins Fish Fry. This open-air festival happens every Friday night, transforming the fishing village into a vibrant gathering of locals and visitors. Here, cooks prepare flying fish with cou cou, a hearty cornmeal and okra dish cherished by Bajans. Plates are loaded with fish that’s been seasoned, lightly battered, and pan-fried, all served alongside cou cou that’s soft and comforting. Walking through Oistins, the air fills with the scent of fresh seafood and the sound of live calypso. Vendors offer tips on sauce pairings or how to eat fish Bajan-style. Many travelers praise this event for its fun, community atmosphere—it’s as much about swapping stories as sharing food. While Friday nights draw big crowds, weekdays offer a quieter taste of the same local fare. If you want to experience Barbados through its flavors, begin at Oistins with a plate of flying fish and an open mind.