David Saunders
Barbs, the Caribbean food brand taking Britain’s taste buds by storm, has arrived in Shoreditch—opening its first-ever restaurant at the iconic Queen of Hoxton. Known for redefining how Britain experiences Bajan cuisine, Barbs has swapped its Deliveroo kitchen for a vibrant, dine-in experience right in the heart of East London’s creative playground.
After earning a loyal following with its signature sauces and island-style dishes, Barbs is now serving up the real taste of Barbados in a setting that feels tailor-made for its energy: bold, joyful, and unashamedly authentic.
“This is a proud step for us. Barbs is all about real food and real Bajan flavour, cooked the way it’s meant to be,” says Nicc Wright, Founder of Barbs. “We’ve taken our family recipes and traditional techniques and created something that feels completely at home in Shoreditch.”
A Slice of Barbados in East London
Part of the Mothership Group, Queen of Hoxton has long been a hub for art, music, and nightlife—a venue that feels as much a state of mind as it is a destination. Its new partnership with Barbs blends Caribbean soul with Shoreditch spirit, marking a fresh chapter for both brands.
“We’re excited to welcome Barbs into the Queen of Hoxton family,” says Andy Maddocks, Managing Director of Mothership Group. “It’s a brand that brings real quality and originality to the table, and we can’t wait for people to experience it.”
From the Islands, with Love (and Spice)
The Barbs menu is a love letter to Barbados—crafted from scratch, brimming with heritage, and laced with attitude. The lineup reads like a passport to paradise:
- Bajan Fried Chicken & Fried Fish Burgers – marinated in a secret green seasoning recipe, served with soused cucumber, crispy onions, and the cult-favourite Fancy Sauce.
- Bajan Roti Wraps – soft, flavour-packed wraps filled with curry chicken and potato or chickpea and potato.
- Bajan Fishcakes & Pumpkin Fritters – beloved street food favourites, reimagined for London’s food lovers.
- Mac Pie Balls – crispy, cheesy bites inspired by the island’s classic macaroni pie, paired with a fermented sweet chilli dip.
- Soused Guac & Barbs Wings – both bursting with the citrusy kick of traditional souse.
- Piña Colada Waffle – a sweet finale featuring pineapple sorbet, coconut ice cream, and coconut drizzle.
And it wouldn’t be Barbs without its sauces. From the fiery Bajan Hot Pepper Sauce to the creamy Fancy Sauce and herby Mayo, every dollop is made in-house—each one a miniature tribute to the balance of heat, sweetness, and tang that defines Bajan cooking.
A New Chapter for Caribbean Cuisine in London
What makes Barbs special isn’t just the food—it’s the story. Born from family recipes and the rhythm of Barbadian kitchens, the brand has taken that island spirit and set it down in one of London’s most creative corners.
This isn’t a pop-up. It’s a statement: Caribbean cooking belongs on the main stage.
With the rooftop glow of Queen of Hoxton as its backdrop, Barbs promises not just a meal, but an experience—a taste of Barbados that feels right at home in Shoreditch’s electric pulse.
