A Taste of Turks & Caicos: Meet Executive Chef Lewin of Windsong Resort

Behind every unforgettable meal at Windsong On The Reef lies a story of passion, precision, and island pride. For more than a decade, Executive Chef Lewin Barnett has been the creative force shaping the culinary journey that guests savor at Windsong, where every plate reflects both Caribbean warmth and world-class technique.

A Day in the Life of an Island Chef

Chef Lewin’s day begins before sunrise. By 5.30am, he’s already in the kitchen, ensuring every detail is on point — from the freshness of ingredients to the rhythm of the morning prep. “I like to check in early to make sure everything is running smoothly,” he says. “If not, I step in wherever I’m needed — cooking on the line, expediting orders, or even picking up late deliveries myself. I’m not just managing the kitchen; I’m part of the team. If meetings are scheduled, I attend those, and I also handle purchasing and maintain relationships with our wholesalers.”

That hands-on approach defines Chef Lewin’s leadership style. Throughout the day, he moves between Windsong’s restaurants, tasting dishes, mentoring his cooks, and fine-tuning every menu detail. “I make sure we’re consistent with the flavors and presentation that our guests love,” he explains. “The goal is always to deliver that ‘wow’ moment at every meal.”

Evenings often stretch late into the night — sometimes past 10 or 11pm — depending on resort occupancy. “Every day is different,” he says with a grin. “That’s what keeps it exciting.”

Thirteen Years of Culinary Excellence

For nearly thirteen years, Chef Lewin has been at the heart of Windsong’s culinary evolution. His tenure speaks to both his dedication and his deep connection to the island. “It still feels like just a year sometimes,” he reflects. “The team here is like family, and we’ve built something special together.

From sunrise breakfasts overlooking Grace Bay to romantic beachfront dinners under the stars, every dining experience at Windsong Resort captures the essence of the islands. Whether savoring conch ceviche or the island’s signature conch fritters, blackened grouper or seared Caicos yellowfin tuna, the focus remains on quality, creativity, and flavor. At Windsong, every bite tells a story of the sea, the island, and the culinary passion behind each plate.

Flavors of the Caribbean

Ask Chef Lewin about his favorite dish, and his eyes light up. “It has to be Jamaican Oxtail  Stew with Butter Beans,” he says. “It’s comfort food at its finest — thick, rich, and full of love.”

He describes it in mouthwatering detail: slow-cooked oxtail seasoned with thyme, garlic, scallion, and a touch of Scotch bonnet pepper for gentle heat, then served alongside coconut and ginger infused rice and peas. “That dish reminds me of what Caribbean food represents — soulful, satisfying, and made to be shared.”

Seafood is the heart of Turks & Caicos cuisine, reflecting the islands’ deep connection to the surrounding ocean. Fresh conch, shrimp, and other seafood feature prominently on Windsong Resort’s menus, celebrating the region’s fishing heritage and the bounty of its crystal-clear waters.

While Chef Lewin honours Caribbean tradition, he also enjoys modernizing classic dishes for Windsong Resort’s international guests with unexpected pairings, creative presentations, and locally-sourced seasonal ingredients like lobster and avocado.

And every Saturday evening, the Windsong team takes the opportunity to show off their culinary pride with a special immersive event that features the flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean, when guests can savor mouthwatering, authentic dishes cooked over an open fire, while a DJ sets the mood with infectious island beats. With staff dressed in vibrant costumes, and a festive, high-energy atmosphere, it’s an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean culture.

Life Beyond the Kitchen

When he’s not leading Windsong’s culinary team, Chef Lewin spends time with his family and pursues hands-on hobbies that keep him grounded. “I love rebuilding Honda cars and working on property development projects,” he shares. “It’s rewarding to see something take shape from the ground up — just like in cooking.”

His favourite spot on the island? “The resort’s own Dune Restaurant and Jojo’s Cafe,” he says instantly. “I’ve spent countless days and nights there. My wife and kids love the pool and ocean nearby, and I can take just a few steps to see them having fun. It’s the perfect balance between work and family.”

Looking Ahead

Despite his years of experience, Chef Lewin’s curiosity remains boundless. His dream destination? Japan — home to some of the world’s most meticulous chefs and fascinating culinary styles. “I’d love to visit one day and I’d also love to dine at one of Chef Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants,” he says. “Those are on my bucket list.”

For now, though, he’s right where he wants to be — creating unforgettable dining experiences for Windsong On The Reef by the turquoise waters of Grace Bay. 

“Cooking at Windsong is about more than food,” he says. “It’s about bringing people together — one dish, one moment, one memory at a time.”