The Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) is proud to announce the participating culinary teams for this year’s highly anticipated Taste of the Caribbean, taking place from November 18-20at Florida International University’s Kovens Conference Center, a release said.
As the region’s premier cultural and gastronomic showcase, the event offers not only spirited, friendly competition but also valuable educational sessions, allowing food and beverage professionals to refine their skills and increase the value of their businesses.
This year’s teams will represent Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Bonaire, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos, St Lucia and US Virgin Islands.
“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.”’
Team Antigua and Barbuda comprises Senior Chef Ronald Wilson of Blue Waters Resort & Spa; Junior Chef Azarie Crump of Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute; Pastry Chef Britanya McLaren of Hermitage Bay; and Bartender Altino Spencer of Boardwalk Casino
Team Barbados comprises Senior Chef Rynaldo Joseph of Sea Breeze Beach House; Junior Chef Dejuan Toppin of Caribbean Cuisine Culinary Institute; Pastry Chef Rickeena Kirton of The Rockley by Ocean Hotels; and Bartender Alex Chandler of Cocktail Kitchen
Representing Team Bonaire are Senior Chef Rhashindra Donge of Krioyo Fusion; Junior Chef Akeesha Cicilia of Sweeti Bakery & Blue Lagoon Restaurant; Pastry Chef Elise Weerstand of Sweeti Bakery & Blue Lagoon Restaurant; and Bartender Eddy Trenidad of Rum Runners Restaurant & Cocktail Bar.
Meanwhile, Team Puerto Rico comprises Senior Chef Kevin Sánchez of Hotel Verdanza; Pastry Chef Neftali Carrero of Restaurante Julio César; and Bartender José “Yeye” Ortega of Hotel Fairmont El San Juan.
Representing Turks & Caicos are Senior Chef Andre Maragh of Seven Stars Resort; Pastry Chef Kenyatta Forbes of The Palms TCI; and Bartender Ronel Charles of Seven Stars Resort.
Team St Luciacomprises Senior Chef: Nerville Joseph of Jade Mountain; Junior Chef Kayla Joseph of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College; Pastry Chef Emmany Hippolyte of Anse Chastanet; and Bartender Ninus Charlouis, Ladera Resort.
Team US Virgin Islands is represented by Senior Chef Kerish Robles of UVI Cell; Pastry Chef: Azamat Sabyrkulov of The Ritz Carlton; and Bartender Putrice Bush of The Buccaneer.
The three-day event will culminate in the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean Awards, which will proudly honor outstanding culinary talent, recognizing the Caribbean Chef of the Year, Caribbean Junior Chef of the Year, Caribbean Bartender of the Year, Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year, and the ultimate recognition–the Caribbean National Team of the Year.
Taste of the Caribbean runs concurrently with CHIEF, the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum which brings together hospitality thought leaders, with sessions on sustainability, culinary tourism, and marketing innovation led by prominent industry figures.
