There’s no competition quite like in the world of Caribbean food: the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association’s Taste of the Caribbean event, which pits national teams from around the region in a full-on cook-off.
The popular event is back for the first time since before the pandemic, being held this year on the heels of the CHTA’s CHIEF conference in Miami.
“Taste of the Caribbean is not only a premier event for showcasing Caribbean culinary talent, but also a valuable opportunity for professional development,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CHTA’s chief executive officer. “Food and beverage professionals can refine their skills through specialized workshops, learn from industry leaders, and stay ahead of culinary trends, all while contributing to the growth and global recognition of Caribbean cuisine.”’
So who’s facing off? This year, it’s teams from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Bonaire, Puerto Rico, Turks and Caicos, Saint Lucia and the US Virgin Islands.
The event will conclude with a series of awards, including Caribbean Chef of the Year, Caribbean Junior Chef of the Year, Caribbean Bartender of the Year, Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year, and Caribbean National Team of the Year.
You can find the full team information below.
Antigua and Barbuda:
- Senior Chef: Ronald Wilson, Blue Waters Resort & Spa
- Junior Chef: Azarie Crump, Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute
- Pastry Chef: Britanya McLaren, Hermitage Bay
- Bartender: Altino Spencer, Boardwalk Casino
Barbados:
- Senior Chef: Rynaldo Joseph, Sea Breeze Beach House
- Junior Chef: Dejuan Toppin, Caribbean Cuisine Culinary Institute
- Pastry Chef: Rickeena Kirton, The Rockley by Ocean Hotels
- Bartender: Alex Chandler, Cocktail Kitchen
Bonaire:
- Senior Chef: Rhashindra Donge, Krioyo Fusion
- Junior Chef: Akeesha Cicilia, Sweeti Bakery & Blue Lagoon Restaurant
- Pastry Chef: Elise Weerstand, Sweeti Bakery & Blue Lagoon Restaurant
- Bartender: Eddy Trenidad, Rum Runners Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Puerto Rico:
- Senior Chef: Kevin Sánchez, Hotel Verdanza
- Pastry Chef: Neftali Carrero, Restaurante Julio César
- Bartender: José “Yeye” Ortega, Hotel Fairmont El San Juan
Turks and Caicos:
- Senior Chef: Andre Maragh, Seven Stars Resort
- Pastry Chef: Kenyatta Forbes, The Palms TCI
- Bartender: Ronel Charles, Seven Stars Resort
St. Lucia:
- Senior Chef: Nerville Joseph, Jade Mountain
- Junior Chef: Kayla Joseph, Sir Arthur Lewis Community College
- Pastry Chef: Emmany Hippolyte, Anse Chastanet
- Bartender: Ninus Charlouis, Ladera Resort
U.S. Virgin Islands:
- Senior Chef: Kerish Robles, UVI Cell
- Pastry Chef: Azamat Sabyrkulov, The Ritz Carlton
- Bartender: Putrice Bush, The Buccaneer
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