The Mews Restaurant & Bar
Once a quiet well-to-do neighbourhood, Second Street is now in the heart of Holetown's restaurant sector and night life and The Mews was one of the first fine restaurants to inhabit this district in Barbados. Although sophisticated and elegant, this restaurant has a relaxed ambience and slightly hedonistic attitude that appeals to free spirited and bohemian types.
The property was once owned by British insurance mogul Ronnie Driver, a flamboyant character who was given to entertaining and hosting lavish parties. His famous daughter, actress Minnie Driver, spent much of her childhood in Barbados before achieving success in films such as Good Will Hunting (1997) for which she was nominated for an Oscar. The building was later converted to a restaurant in the early 90's by noted restauranteur Josef Schwaiger and his wife who were drawn to its charms.
On entering The Mews, you could well be forgiven for thinking you had stumbled into the living room of someone's private home. You are greeted by the welcoming look of sofa seating, walls of tasteful artwork and deliciously low lamp lighting. The interior is full of character with interesting nooks, intriguing archways and intimate corners. Downstairs romantic dining tables are set in the small indoor garden courtyard surrounded by tropical plants and creeping vines. The main dining room upstairs, is light and airy. For a special occasion while in Barbados, try to book one of the 4 semi-private balcony tables which are surely one of the loveliest spots or if you have a large party there is an adjacent room that can easily seat 12.
The menu features broadly continental cuisine with a little Caribbean inspiration. You might find, for example, Roast Pumpkin Soup with Goats Cheese Crostini or Pan Fried Shrimp with Apple Chutney and Tamarind Glaze. Dishes are simple, well thought out and focus on a few fine ingredients and the menu is tweaked almost daily. Fresh Catch, Lamb Osso Bucco and Thai Green Curry are crowd pleasers. While sophisticates will find plenty to enjoy, the prices are not overbearing. Appetizers are in the $24-$40 Bds range and main courses average $75 Bds. In addition The Mews has a noted wine cellar that has decent affordable house wines (about $65 Bds per bottle) and includes richer fare such as Chateau Petrus 1989 ($7200 Bds) and lots of choice inbetween!
Perhaps best of all, The Mews is known for its lively bar scene particularly on Friday nights. Pop in just for drinks, to mix and mingle or stay on after dinner as the party scene develops and continues on, often into the early hours. If you are in Barbados for the New Year, The Mews is an excellent choice as Second Street is dedicated to a street party and The Mews is in the heart of the action.
Dinner served from 6:00 pm. Last orders 9:30 pm. Reservations Recommended. Wheelchair accessible. Private parking available.
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