You might not expect a trio of Italian restrauteurs to open a tapas joint in Barbados, but that’s just what Franco (formerly of Lone Star), Alfredo (of Mama Mia), and Franco (Dolce Gelato) did in 2009—and Barbadians have been thankful ever since. Tapas took over the space once occupied by Aqua on the South Coast beach boardwalk and turned it into a popular surfside spot. Expect friendly, attentive service whether you sit upstairs for the breezes and sweeping sea views, or downstairs, where you can almost feel the sea spray from the beach a few feet away (reserve ahead to secure a seaside table). Some come for cocktails with a view; others to nibble the night away on tapas, from the classic albondigas (meatballs) to creative nosh like jerk panko chicken, tasso ham stew, thai fish cakes, chicken samosa, and shark fritters. You can also order full meals, ranging from Italian cannelloni or asparagus risotto to seared tuna, panko-crusted chicken katsu stuffed with ham and mozzarella, spice-rubbed catch of the day served with pineapple salsa and sweet potato mash, and green thai curry.