Discover more of Barbados through Dine With a Bajan - a cultural tourism project that aims to connect visitors with local families.
The initiative invites persons to enjoy meals in the homes of locals, sharing in the warmth of genuine island hospitality, seasoned with stories, laughter, and that unmistakable Bajan charm.
The project will foster meaningful cultural exchange and support local livelihoods as visitors taste the island’s rich culinary heritage and immerse themselves in the local way of life.
The Dine with a Bajan hosts are ready to provide exceptional service as they offer guests a seat at the table.
Visitors and locals alike are invited to book a dining experience with a host of their choice.
Perfect for families, couples and groups of food enthusiasts.
CULINARY EXCELLENCE LOCAL INGREDIENTS
Click here to book a Dine with a Bajan experience
COMMUNITY TOURISM AUTHENTIC BAJAN DINING FARM TO TABLE SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES STORYTELLING
Minister of Tourism and International Transport, The Honourable Ian Gooding-Edghill (centre) flanked by hosts of the first Dine with a Bajan cohort; revered cricketers representing Cricket Legends of Barbados Inc. including the legendary Joel “Big Bird” Garner (tallest, back row); General Manager of Cricket Legends of Barbados Inc., Ms. Julia Caine (next to Mr. Garner); Chief Executive Officer of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), Ms Andrea Franklin (4th from left); BTMI’s Chief Product Development Officer, Ms. Marsha Alleyne (2nd from right) and Product Development Officer, Ms. Chanique Morris (3rd from right).
Just in
time for the island’s upcoming tourist winter season, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) re-launched its ‘Dine with a Bajan’ community tourism initiative, where local host families will open their homes to visitors for an authentic Bajan dining experience.
The relaunch of the initiative was held on Wednesday, November 19th, 2025, at the Cricket Legends of Barbados, Fontabelle, St. Michael, where guests had the opportunity to hear about the initiative and what would be involved when a visitor chooses to “Dine with a Bajan”.
Minister of Tourism and International Transport, The Honourable Ian Gooding-Edghill, emphasised that the “flagship” community tourism initiative will play a role in showcasing Barbados’ culture and hospitality, while boosting local entrepreneurship and promoting sustainable practices.
“This initiative strengthens the Barbados brand in many facets, and it certainly showcases our most valuable asset, our people.
As Barbadian hosts welcome guests into their homes to share their traditional dishes and stories, visitors will feel that genuine human connection to the island. These intimate experiences will convert visitors into wonderful ambassadors who can speak about the true spirit of our Barbadian hospitality, culture and Bajan cuisine.”
“This exciting gastronomy programme represents far more than a new dining attraction. It reflects the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport’s policy commitment to expanding Barbados’ culinary tourism pillar, strengthening inter-sectoral linkages and ensuring that the economic value of tourism is shared more equitably amongst our people. As we continue to modernise and diversify our tourism offerings, ‘Dine with a Bajan’ stands as a practical expression of community empowerment, entrepreneurship and authentic cultural immersion,” Mr. Gooding-Edghill stated.
The BTMI’s CEO, Andrea Franklin, noted that as part of the initiative, which falls primarily under the Product Development department, hosts had to apply to be a part of the programme and participate in a two-day workshop covering topics such as Health and Safety, Service Excellence, the Art of Storytelling and Culinary Excellence.
Ms. Franklin thanked hosts for opening their homes, the team at BTMI, especially Chief Product Development Officer, Marsha Alleyne, and Project Lead, Chanique Morris, who elevated the programme into a “beautifully layered experience, one that honours tradition while embracing innovation”.
The evening also introduced the hosts and a sampling of some of the delectable dishes that will be prepared for guests, reimagined by Chef Creig Greenidge.
The first ‘Dine with a Bajan’ cohort of hosts comprises: Maria Joseph, Patricia Mash and Marie Alleyne, Janelle Lashley, Sancia Padmore, Juliet and Franklin Jeffers, Jessica Odle-Baril and Robert Baril, and David and Noelle Kirton. Also opening their doors as part of the programme is Cricket Legends of Barbados.
Speaking at the event, all hosts shared why they chose to participate in the venture. Juliet Jeffers said: “My husband Franklin and made the choice to relocate from the United Kingdom to Barbados with our two children over 20 years ago, and it was one of the best decisions of our lives. Barbados has given us so much. Becoming a ‘Dine with a Bajan’ host feels like our way of giving something back. It feels like our way of saying thank you to my parents’ island that welcomed us so warmly.”
General Manager of Cricket Legends of Barbados Inc., Julia Caine, shared that in addition to dining on local dishes, guests who choose that venue will experience captivating insights into iconic matches and record-breaking performances; life on tour and experiences in cricket’s great stadiums; how the game has evolved over the years; and personal philosophies on teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship from some of Barbados’ well known, esteemed cricketers associated with Cricket Legends of Barbados. including the legendary Joel ‘Big Bird’ Garner.
For more information and updates on the ‘Dine with a Bajan’ initiative, interested persons may follow BTMI
VisitBarbados Barbados
Article written by Sheena Forde-Craigg of the Barbados Government Information Service
Visit www.dinewithabajan.com for more information.
Through this initiative, I am delighted to welcome long-stay and cruise visitors, members of the diaspora, returning nationals, and fellow residents to experience an exceptional epicurean adventure.
As travellers dine within the homes of our hosts, cuisine and culture converge to create an authentic Bajan experience, rooted in the principles of sustainable tourism and reflective of our rich traditions of hospitality, storytelling, and shared heritage.
Mr. Ian Gooding-Edghill MINISTER OF TOURISM AND INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT
This is the kind of initiative that can forge lasting connections and give birth to a meaningful culinary movement inspired by a shared love of people, stories and food.
We are eager to see these talented home cooks and hosts shine. To be welcomed into a local home… to sit at their table, alongside their family and friends, listening to them share stories in the rhythm of an infectious Bajan accent – that is a memory that will last a lifetime.
Ms. Andrea Franklin CEO, BARBADOS TOURISM MARKETING INC.
Meet the Hosts
David Kirton & wife Noelle
The Day-O Dinner Experience
Join award-winning reggae singer-songwriter David Kirton and his wife Noelle for an intimate dinner experience filled with sweet island flavours, Bajan storytelling, warm hospitality, and live acoustic vibes.
Janelle
Bruh-Guh-Down
Savour the weekend the Bajan way, with a traditional Bruggadown Saturday Brunch or a relaxed Sunday family-style lunch filled with authentic local flavour, warmth, and island hospitality.
Juliet
Jools’ Kitchen offers authentic Bajan Cuisine for lunch & dinner.
Enjoy a Bajan, home-cooked buffet as part of a bespoke dining experience set within our quaint, plantation home nestled in Barbados’ countryside.
Our dishes, made with quality local ingredients, will be served overlooking a lush garden landscape. Book now, we welcome you.
Cricket Legends of Barbados
"Legends at the Table" invites guests to enjoy an intimate evening with Barbados Cricket Legends, featuring lively storytelling, laughter, and meaningful cultural exchange, all served with a winning dinner menu and true island hospitality.
Maria
A Taste of Barbados with Maria
Join us for a memorable taste of Barbados, whether through participation in my hands-on Bajan Conkie Masterclass or an elegant evening of refined Bajan dining, culture, and connection.
Pat & Marie
The Sisters of Speightstown
Local sisters Pat & Marie offer delicious dinners & interactive cooking experiences.
Experience a cozy, outdoor dinner with warm hospitality and childhood stories co-mingled with delicious meals that were inspired by their grandmother's kitchen.
Create new memories with the Bajan Staples Cooking Experience – the sisters visit you with the ingredients after which everyone cooks together & eats together!
Sancia
From Lime to Prime
Experience authentic Barbadian hospitality through home-cooked island cuisine with a twist. From traditional Saturday pickled meats and local favourites to a relaxed Sunday royal feast. Enjoy cultural storytelling, bold Bajan flavours, warm company, and unforgettable memories served the true island way.
Jessica & Robert
Lunch with the Barils
Set within their cliffside country garden home, Jessica and Robert welcome guests to relaxed lunch experiences featuring a modern fusion of Bajan and Haitian cuisine. Served family-style, this intimate experience blends bold island flavours, warm hospitality, garden charm, and meaningful cultural connection.
WHERE THE experiences come to life
SAINT PHILIP
SAINT
Pat & Marie
Content
Press Coverage
TAKE A SEAT AT THE TABLE & ‘DINE WITH A BAJAN’!
Bridgetown, Barbados, December 15th, 2025 – Travellers to Barbados seeking more than just sea, sun and sand can now experience genuine Bajan life through the relaunch of the “Dine with a Bajan” community tourism programme.
Presented by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), this unique initiative invites visitors to savour authentic Barbadian cuisine while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of local families in their own homes.
BARBADOS RELAUNCHES ITS “DINE WITH A BAJAN” EXPERIENCE
Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. has relaunched its “Dine with a Bajan” programme, inviting visitors to swap resort restaurants for home-cooked meals, stories and music with carefully trained host families across the island.
Barbados has always been generous with its sunshine, but some of the island’s most memorable warmth comes from its people – and, very often, from what is served at their tables. Click here to continue
BARBADOS has taken the idea of dining local to new levels with their 'Dine with a Bajan' campaign, inviting visitors to savour authentic Barbadian cuisine, while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of local families in their own homes.
Travellers seeking more than just sea, sun and sand can experience genuine Bajan lite through the community tourism programme where they are welcomed into Bajan homes to sample traditional dishes, hear captivating stories, and gain an insider's perspective on daily island life.
Visitors can choose from eight unique hosts at dinewithabajan.com
Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
WHAT IS DINE WITH A BAJAN?
Dine with a Bajan (DWB) is Barbados’ first platform dedicated to authentic home-cooked dining experiences, where local host families open their homes or spaces to guests for traditional meals, stories, and cultural insights beyond typical tourist settings.
WHO OPERATES THE PLATFORM?
The initiative is managed by the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) under its Product Development department.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE AS A GUEST?
Visitors to Barbados, members of the diaspora, and locals are all welcome to book experiences.
WHAT MAKES THE EXPERIENCE UNIQUE?
Guests enjoy intimate meals in local homes featuring time-honoured recipes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, paired with storytelling about island culture, history, and traditions in a warm, welcoming setting.
How It Works
HOW DO I BOOK AN EXPERIENCE?
Browse hosts by menu, location, or vibe on dinewithabajan.com then book and pay securely online. You’ll receive confirmation through the platform.
WHAT DOES THE EXPERIENCE INVOLVE?
Select a host experience, confirm your booking, and enjoy an authentic meal or culinary activity in a welcoming Bajan setting, complete with the lively conversation Bajans are known for. Enjoy featured dishes like cou-cou and flying fish, stews, and savoury sides.
ARE THERE SPECIAL VENUES
AVAILABLE?
Yes, some experiences occur at unique spaces like Cricket Legends of Barbados, where guests dine, while hearing stories from retired cricketers like Joel ‘Big Bird’ Garner about iconic matches, tours, and sportsmanship.
HOW
FAR
IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK?
We recommend booking early, especially during peak travel periods, as availability and group sizes vary by host.
Pricing and Payments
HOW DO YOU PAY?
All dining experiences must be booked via the DWB website dinewithabajan.com. Payments are accepted via credit card, including and .
HOW SECURE ARE PAYMENTS?
Payment processing through the DWB platform adheres to the highest level of security protocols.
Guests, Groups and Children
ARE CHILDREN ALLOWED?
Yes, children are allowed at the host’s discretion. There is a reduced charge for children 12 years and under, while babies and toddlers up to age 2, dine for free.
CAN COUPLES OR AN INDIVIDUAL GUEST BUY OUT AN ENTIRE EXPERIENCE FOR A PRIVATE/EXCLUSIVE MEAL?
Exclusive dining experiences may be offered at the discretion of the host. Requests can be submitted at the time of booking.
Meals and Dietary Needs
WHAT KIND OF FOOD IS SERVED?
Traditional Bajan dishes and fusions made with fresh, local ingredients, celebrating the island’s culinary diversity and influences.
CAN I REQUEST MENU CHANGES BASED ON DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
If you have dietary needs or allergies, please share them at the time of booking. Hosts confirm what they can accommodate (e.g. Vegetarian, Vegan, Kosher, Celiac, Lactose Intolerance) via the meal experience form.
IS SUSTAINABILITY EMPHASIZED?
Yes. Many hosts support local farmers by sourcing locally grown ingredients and engage in sustainable practices that support responsible tourism and help to reduce food waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Accessibility and Comfort
ARE PATHWAYS, ENTRANCES/EXITS, AND INDOOR FACILITIES AT THE HOMES FULLY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Accessibility varies by home. Please communicate any special requirements (including mobility needs) at the time of booking, so we can confirm whether the selected experience can accommodate you comfortably.
House Rules and Etiquette
IS SMOKING ALLOWED DURING THE EXPERIENCE?
Smoking is not permitted indoors. DWB strongly prefers a no-smoking environment throughout the experience. If a guest needs to smoke, it may only be considered outdoors in a designated area, with the host’s approval.
Hosts and Training
HOW ARE HOSTS SELECTED?
Hosts apply through the online form on dinewithabajan.com and must complete a workshop on Health and Safety, Service Excellence, the Art of Storytelling, and Culinary Excellence.
WHAT TRAINING DO HOSTS RECEIVE?
Workshops cover food safety, service etiquette, storytelling, and culinary skills to ensure high standards.
ARE YOU CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW HOST APPLICATIONS?
Interested hosts may submit their information via the form available on the DWB website. It will be kept on file for future cohorts and a member of our team will contact you when recruitment reopens.
WHAT ABOUT PRIVACY?
The website’s Privacy Policy outlines how information is handled. Please review the Privacy Policy section on the website for details.
Support and Contact
WHERE CAN I FIND MORE HELP?
Visit the Help & Support section on dinewithabajan.com.
