A New Tradition at The Cliff Barbados Sunday Lunch

If you’ve ever been to The Cliff Barbados, you’ll know it isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. Perched above the turquoise Caribbean Sea, it has long been one of the most glamorous dining destinations in the world.

I’ve visited The Cliff many times before for dinner, but when I heard they had launched a Sunday roast lunch, my curiosity was instantly piqued.

As self-proclaimed roast aficionados (and regulars at The Tides’ Sunday lunches, owned by the same team), we booked in for 1:30 PM on Sunday, 2nd November 2025, to see how The Cliff Barbados Sunday Lunch would interpret a classic British ritual, Caribbean-style. It was every bit as luxurious as you’d expect, and then some.

Arrival at The Cliff Barbados: Five-Star Service from the Start

The sense of occasion begins the moment you arrive. Tropical foliage parts to reveal a sleek driveway where a valet greets you with a warm Bajan smile and gracefully takes your keys. That first exchange, calm and confident, sets the tone for the rest of the afternoon.

The entrance fountain sparkles in the sunlight, a favourite photo spot, and even though we’ve been before, it still impresses. Inside, the staff greet you by name and guide you past the grand double doors into the main restaurant.

The uniforms never fail to catch my eye. Elegant, seasonal, and perfectly coordinated. On this Sunday, the women wore tailored black floral dresses, looking more glamorous than most guests. Those details, the smiles, and the confidence remind you that this is one of the world’s truly great restaurants.

The Cliff Barbados Bar Experience: Ocean Views and Signature Cocktails

Before lunch, we relaxed in The Cliff’s Twilight Bar and Lounge, an air-conditioned space with floor-to-ceiling glass giving uninterrupted ocean views. It’s chic, serene, and the perfect prelude to the meal.

Within moments, a footstool appeared for my handbag, a small gesture that makes you feel instantly cared for. The cocktail menu read like a love letter to craftsmanship, creative, balanced, and beautifully presented.

Charlie ordered the Bajan Fashioned, a twist on the classic Old Fashioned with banana-infused Planteray XO rum, banana chips, and dark chocolate notes. I chose the Smokey Cliff, with Tito’s vodka, passionfruit, thyme syrup, cucumber water, a touch of Tabasco, and aromatic cinnamon-thyme smoke.

Each drink looked like art. My glass shimmered under a soft veil of smoke, topped with tiny bursting pearls like bubble tea. The taste was tropical, smoky, and just a little spicy, the perfect opening act.

Canapés and Ambience at The Cliff Barbados: A Taste of What’s to Come

Soon after, a trio of canapés arrived: delicate lobster croquettes, a savoury waffle with hummus and goat’s cheese, and another bite-sized gem I’m still thinking about. Each was beautifully presented and perfectly portioned.

As we sipped and savoured, the restaurant hummed softly around us. Elegant couples, families celebrating, and fellow regulars all shared that signature Cliff atmosphere, refined but never pretentious.

Dining Room Atmosphere: Cool Elegance by the Sea

When our table was ready, we were led to a side dining area overlooking the sea, surrounded by glass walls that made it feel as though we were floating above the water.

Unlike the open-air lower deck used for dinner, this room was cool, calm, and ideal for a long, lazy Sunday lunch. With only a handful of tables, the setting felt intimate and exclusive. Crisp linen, gleaming cutlery, and the rhythmic sound of waves below created the perfect ambience.

Starters at The Cliff Barbados: From Bread Basket to Perfection

Our cellar master O’Neale introduced himself with charm and confidence. We mentioned our love of South African whites, oaky Chardonnays, and rich Chenin Blancs. He guided us to the perfect bottle, and he was absolutely right.

Then came the famous Cliff bread basket, a wooden tray of warm rolls presented like treasure, Parmesan, jalapeño and cheese, salt and pepper, and a rustic multigrain loaf. Served with salted butter, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, it’s easily one of the best bread services on the island.

For starters, I had the Parmesan Spaghetti Cacio e Pepe, a simple yet decadent dish with silky sauce and just the right peppery bite. Charlie chose the Steak Tartare topped with a “Happy Egg,” a nod to the restaurant’s owner. It was sharp, velvety, and unforgettable.

The Main Event: The Cliff Barbados Sunday Roast

When the Sunday roast arrived, anticipation filled the room. The chef carved the Surrey Farm Rib of Beef tableside, an impressive sight that turned every head.

The beef was perfectly pink and tender, served with Yorkshire puddings, crispy roast potatoes, cauliflower cheese, orange-glazed carrots, buttered greens, and a jug of glossy red wine jus. I asked for English mustard, and it appeared instantly.

Charlie cheekily asked if any pork crackling remained from the other roast option. Moments later, Jaden, our waitress and a familiar face from a past visit, returned with a plate of it. It was crisp, salty, and the best we’ve ever had.

The roast was extraordinary, comforting yet glamorous, British soul food with Caribbean flair.

Dessert at The Cliff Barbados: The Sweetest Ending

After a brief pause (and pretending to be full), dessert was inevitable. I went for the Sticky Toffee Pudding, rich and spiced with Madagascan vanilla ice cream. It could have been a touch stickier, but it still disappeared in record time.

Charlie chose the Raspberry and Banana Trifle, which he called “the bomb.” It layered raspberry jelly, sherry, Chantilly cream, and banana, pure nostalgic indulgence.

Finally, we were served petit fours: a mini cheesecake, a strawberry shortcake macaron, and a Baileys truffle. Each one was delicate, divine, and the perfect end to an unforgettable meal.

Service at The Cliff Barbados: Personal, Professional, and Perfect

Throughout lunch, the service was exceptional. O’Neale’s wine expertise, Jaden’s warmth, and Tanya’s quiet precision created effortless rhythm and flow.

We chatted with the team long after dessert, taking photos by the fountain before saying goodbye. They never rushed us, even as the last table in the room. That’s the definition of true luxury, time, space, and genuine care.

Final Impressions: A Sunday Lunch to Remember

As we left and crossed to QP for live music and cocktails, the sun dipped low over the Caribbean. Everything, the food, the view, the people, aligned in perfect harmony.

In a world where Sunday lunch can feel ordinary, The Cliff Barbados turns it into something extraordinary.

Who The Cliff Barbados Sunday Lunch Is Perfect For

Couples looking for romance, food lovers who appreciate precision, and anyone who believes a roast should be extraordinary. It’s also family-friendly, elegant yet relaxed, and ideal for celebrating special occasions.

Final Verdict: Why The Cliff Barbados Is a Must-Do

If dinner at The Cliff is world-famous, the Sunday roast deserves equal acclaim. Every element, from the smoky cocktails to the perfectly carved beef, was delivered with heart and flair.

10/10 – A must-do for anyone visiting Barbados.

A Sunday lunch at The Cliff Barbados isn’t just a meal. It’s a love letter to fine dining, served with Caribbean warmth and British comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Cliff Barbados Sunday Lunch

How much is Sunday lunch at The Cliff Barbados?
Sunday lunch is $250 BBD per adult and $125 BBD for children aged 5–12 (complimentary for under 5s). It includes a starter, main, dessert, bread basket, and petit fours.

What time is Sunday lunch served?
From 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. Book early, especially during high season.

What’s included in The Cliff’s Sunday roast?
Choose between Surrey Farm rib of beef carved tableside or Gloucestershire Old Spot pork belly. Each comes with Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes, carrots, greens, and cauliflower cheese.

Are there vegetarian or pescatarian options?
Yes. Miso Glazed Aubergine and Blackened Mahi Mahi are standout options, with vegetarian and gluten-free choices always available.

Can I visit The Cliff just for drinks?
Yes, the Twilight Bar and Lounge is open to non-diners. Try the Smokey Cliff or Bajan Old Fashioned for something special.

What’s the difference between The Cliff and The Tides Barbados?
Both are owned by the same team. The Cliff offers elevated fine dining over the sea, while The Tides is slightly more relaxed yet equally elegant.

Is The Cliff suitable for families?
Yes. The air-conditioned dining room makes it comfortable for all ages while maintaining a refined feel.

Do they cater to dietary needs?
Absolutely. The chefs will tailor dishes to any dietary requirements when requested in advance.