What is the national food of Barbados? The national food of Barbados is Cou Cou and Fried Flying Fish. Second in popularity is pudding and souse, but as with all other Bajan food, it all depends on your individual taste, and what you're looking for.

The national dish of Barbados is Cou-Cou and Flying Fish. This iconic meal is a fusion of African and European influences, reflecting the island's history. Cou-Cou is a smooth, firm porridge made from cornmeal and okra; it is traditionally stirred with a "cou-cou stick" (a flat wooden tool) until it reaches a specific consistency similar to Italian polenta or African fufu. The Flying Fish is usually prepared by steaming it with lime juice, onions, and various Caribbean spices, or it can be breaded and fried. The dish is often served with a "Bajan gravy" made from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and herbs. While you can find this dish throughout the week, it is traditionally served on Fridays or Saturdays in Barbadian households and local "rum shops." For tourists visiting in 2026, the Oistins Fish Fry is the most famous place to try this delicacy while soaking in the local culture, music, and coastal atmosphere of the island.