The UK’s first authentic Bajan fast-casual brand opens its first permanent space in one of East London’s most iconic venues
Shoreditch just got a little hotter. Barbs, the Caribbean food brand redefining how Britain experiences Bajan cuisine, has officially opened its first restaurant space at the Queen of Hoxton — one of East London’s most creative and celebrated venues.
The launch marks a major milestone for the fast-rising brand, which first captured attention through its Deliveroo Editions kitchen and range of signature Bajan sauces. Now, Barbs is stepping out of the delivery kitchen and into the spotlight with a vibrant dine-in experience that brings the authentic flavours of Barbados to the heart of Shoreditch.
“This is a proud step for us,” says Nicc Wright, Founder of Barbs. “Barbs is all about real food and real Bajan flavour, cooked the way it’s meant to be. We’ve taken our family recipes and traditional techniques and created something that feels completely at home in Shoreditch.”
From family recipes to the Queen of Hoxton
Founded in 2024, Barbs has built its reputation on one clear principle — authentic Bajan cooking, made from scratch. Each dish draws on family recipes passed down through generations, capturing the island’s warmth, rhythm, and spirit in every bite.
At its new home in the Queen of Hoxton, Barbs will serve a menu that fuses traditional island comfort food with modern fast-casual dining — an energetic match for the venue’s lively, creative atmosphere.
The menu celebrates bold flavours and classic Caribbean favourites:
- Bajan Fried Chicken and Fried Fish Burgers – marinated in authentic green seasoning from a cherished family recipe, topped with soused cucumber, crispy onions, and Barbs’ cult-favourite Fancy Sauce.
- Bajan Roti Wraps – soft, flavour-packed staples filled with Curry Chicken and Potato or Chickpea and Potato.
- Bajan Fishcakes and Pumpkin Fritters – street food staples bringing the island’s vibrant markets to East London.
- Mac Pie Balls – Barbs’ creative twist on the traditional macaroni pie, crispy on the outside and rich inside, paired with a fermented sweet chilli dip.
- Soused Guac and Barbs Wings – both inspired by the bright, citrusy kick of Bajan souse, a beloved island dish.
- And for dessert? The indulgent Piña Colada Waffle, served with pineapple sorbet, coconut ice cream, and coconut drizzle — a playful nod to the island’s iconic cocktail.
A taste of Barbados in every bite
Every plate at Barbs comes with a side of island personality — thanks to its house-made sauces that deliver the signature Bajan balance of spice, tang, and sweetness. From the creamy Fancy Sauce and herby Mayo to the fiery Bajan Hot Pepper Sauce made with cucumber, mustard, and turmeric, each one is crafted in-house to keep those tropical flavours singing.
Wright says the idea was always to create “a menu that feels familiar but exciting — something that reminds people of home, or makes them want to book a flight to Barbados.”
A perfect pairing: Barbs x Queen of Hoxton
For Queen of Hoxton, part of the Mothership Group, the arrival of Barbs marks a vibrant new chapter. Known for its rooftop parties, art installations, and immersive events, the venue has long been a cornerstone of Shoreditch’s cultural scene — a place where creativity, community, and nightlife come together.
Andy Maddocks, Managing Director of Mothership Group, says the collaboration couldn’t be a better fit: “We’re excited to welcome Barbs into the Queen of Hoxton family. It’s a brand that brings real quality and originality to the table, and we can’t wait for people to experience it.”
The partnership blends London’s creative energy with the soulful authenticity of Barbados, creating a space where diners can enjoy great food, good music, and a true sense of island togetherness.
A defining moment for Bajan cuisine in Britain
Barbs’ Shoreditch debut is more than just a restaurant opening — it’s part of a growing wave of Caribbean-led food ventures carving out their space in Britain’s dining culture. The brand is proudly female- and Caribbean-founded, celebrating its roots while redefining what fast-casual dining can look like.
In a city known for embracing global flavours, Barbs stands out for its commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and community. What started as a delivery concept has evolved into a cultural statement — one that captures the colour, heat, and heart of the Caribbean.
As Wright puts it, “Barbs is about celebrating who we are and where we come from — but also about bringing people together through food. That’s what Bajan culture is all about.”
Eat. Vibe. Repeat.
With its sun-soaked flavours, creative cocktails, and the buzz of Shoreditch all around, Barbs at Queen of Hoxton promises to be one of London’s most exciting new openings this season — a true taste of Barbados in the capital’s cultural core.
Barbs at Queen of Hoxton is open now.
Visit www.eatbarbs.com | Follow @eatbarbs and @queenofhoxtonldn for updates.
