Papa Zouk — Restaurant in Antigua

During our recent visit to Papa Zouk, we encountered several issues that marred our dining experience. This was our first time making a large booking, and we called ahead and spoke with Faye, who was extremely lovely and accommodating. She even provided vegan options for those in our group who couldn't eat fish.

Upon arrival, we were seated but had to wait for a while. There were no physical menus available. Instead, the manager instructed the waiting staff not to give us menus as he would verbalize the menu to us, which prevented us from seeing prices. We ordered drinks and had to wait for him to approach us. His demeanor was curt and regimented, focusing first on the lobster options and informing us that there wasn't much left on the menu.

Our group of eleven ordered meals, and we were told that the meals included bread and salad. However, only three baskets of bread were brought out to share among all of us, while we observed other pairs sharing a basket between them. When we questioned the staff, they stated that this was the standard serving.

The final issue arose when it came time to pay. We chose to settle our bills separately, and the prices did not match those listed on the restaurant's Facebook page, leading to significantly higher charges. Despite being the largest booking, the staff's customer service fell short. The manager appeared to neglect our table while being quite courteous to other patrons, leaving us with the suspicion that we were overcharged.

While Faye was delightful and helpful over the phone, our actual experience at the restaurant was disappointing and...

I tried calling three times to make a reservation and the phone went to answering service directly for me to leave a message each time. In fact the recorded message still had the restaurants Christmas / New Year holiday closing dates on the message even though this was the January 17th weekend. So my girlfriend and I decided to try to walk in. Upon arrival at around 6pm, the restaurant was half empty, and no one greeted us. We stood there for about 2 minutes and a man walked over from the bar to ask us if we had any reservation, and when we said "no". He spoke with a bit of a German accent. He told us that there was nothing he could do if we hadn't called in advance. I tried explaining that i called earlier, but his attitude got progressively worse and he dismissed me saying that he was the owner and there was no way i could have called. I walked outside, but remembered that I had the call logs. When I walked back inside, I heard the hostess explaining to a group of three women that they didn't have a reservation and could not be seated. The owner walked over and proceeded to tell them that he was really busy, but he could fit them in a small corner. Interestingly enough, my girlfriend and I looked like the staff. The three women looked like him. At that point, i realized what his issue was with my walk in. I showed him the call records anyway just to close the point, and he changed his story to "i guess that staff turned off the phone when we got booked up". Needless to say, i wouldn't recommend Papa Zouk to anyone, and particularly if you don't look...

The best restaurant in Antigua.

We were taken here on holiday by our friends who are regulars and highly recommended this place to all.

Instead of the usual and expected ‘talking menu’ from Papa Zouk, on arrival we were greeted by Mamma Zouk? (It was Papa’s night off) She did not disappoint!!! She did give us an actual menu and some great chat.

She welcomed us warmly this was new and a cool experience for both ourselves and our friends to hear the history of this popular restaurant how it began 25 years ago and the legend that is Papa Zouk.

The place was incredible. Offering up a fresh vibe with true island atmosphere, soft reggae beats and a cool breeze floating throughout. The toilets will make you laugh with some rather risqué well placed reflection paintings.

Start to finish top class service from both owner and staff.

The food was truly divine and lived up to its reputation for being the best on island.

Snapper was delicious and the sauce was WOW just mouthwatering. Super Juicy Mahi Mahi Bouillabaisse to die for Starters of conch and shrimp fritters were delightful. And the famous rum punch will put a spring in your step.

Make sure you book to avoid disappointment. Highly...