From the moment I first heard the team behind Slow Food Barbados mention opening a restaurant many years ago, I knew it would one day be something special. Local & Co. Barbados is everything I hoped it would be and more.

Full disclosure, I worked with the team at Slow Food Barbados for over 6 years as a communications consultant. This experience was life changing for me, and has shaped my relationship with food forever. You can read more about my sustainability journey. I was offered a complimentary meal and dining experience at The Local & Co. as part of a “Friends and Family” soft launch, but not in exchange for this review. These opinions are my own.

This farm to table restaurant is the real deal; a shining example of what “ocean to plate” or “farm to fork” should be in the Caribbean. One of the core values of the Slow Food Barbados team is authenticity. They do and live by what they say on the label. There’s no “green washing”, no false advertising. Based on the conversations we had with the team, every person is involved because they feel a strong connection with the sustainability movement.

Local & Co. Barbados is located in a meticulously restored 18th century warehouse in Speightstown. Every single detail has been thought of, no (coral) stone left unturned. From sustainably sourced furniture, to ethically sourced produce, the team has thought of it all.

The Local & Co. Marketplace and Menu

The marketplace features local artisans, sustainably sourced products and delicious treats made in house. These include pickles, jams and jellies, as well as artisanal, infused rum. You can also pick up a bee box, local honey and local jewellery, if you fancy.

The menu is quirky and “glocal” (localized versions of global dishes) There are popular classics with a twist (such as rum punch, Caesar salad and ceviche) as well as a wide range of unique dishes that cater to a variety of pallets and dietary requirements. The gluten free black belly sheep tacos, homemade ketchup and croquettes (pictured) were to.die.for.

The entire menu is sourced directly from farmers, fisherfolk and growers. This is really impressive, especially in an island we import about 86% of the seafood consumed [Source], and spends upwards of US$350 million dollars in importing food. [Source]

I truly believe that the Local & Co. is an example of what sustainable gastronomy can look like in the Caribbean.

Is this the future of gastronomy in Barbados?

Barbados has a long way to go in developing more sustainable practices; from our tourism products to our food sourcing, but Local & Co. Barbados is showing how it can be done with style, fun and flair.

Don’t just take my word for it though, check it out and let me know what you think!

Ps: head on over to my Instagram account to see videos of the space.