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 18-20 at Florida International University’s Kovens Conference Center. 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 & Barbuda, Barbados, Bonaire, Puerto Rico, Turks & Caicos, St. Lucia, and U.S. Virgin Islands, each showcasing their unique culinary talents and flair. The teams are comprised of senior chefs, junior chefs, pastry chefs, and bartenders, all vying for the top spots in their respective categories.

According to Vanessa Ledesma, CHTA’s chief executive officer, “Taste of the Caribbean is not only a premier event for showcasing Caribbean culinary talent, but also a valuable opportunity for professional development. 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.”

The teams competing in the 2024 edition of Taste of the Caribbean are as follows:

Representing Antigua & Barbuda are Senior Chef Ronald Wilson from Blue Waters Resort & Spa, Junior Chef Azarie Crump from Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute, Pastry Chef Britanya McLaren from Hermitage Bay, and Bartender Altino Spencer from Boardwalk Casino.

Barbados will be represented by Senior Chef Rynaldo Joseph from Sea Breeze Beach House, Junior Chef Dejuan Toppin from Caribbean Cuisine Culinary Institute, Pastry Chef Rickeena Kirton from The Rockley by Ocean Hotels, and Bartender Alex Chandler from Cocktail Kitchen.

Bonaire’s team consists of Senior Chef Rhashindra Donge from Krioyo Fusion, Junior Chef Akeesha Cicilia from Sweeti Bakery & Blue Lagoon Restaurant, Pastry Chef Elise Weerstand from Sweeti Bakery & Blue Lagoon Restaurant, and Bartender Eddy Trenidad from Rum Runners Restaurant & Cocktail Bar.

Puerto Rico’s team includes Senior Chef Kevin Sánchez from Hotel Verdanza, Pastry Chef Neftali Carrero from Restaurante Julio César, and Bartender José “Yeye” Ortega from Hotel Fairmont El San Juan.

Representing Turks & Caicos are Senior Chef Andre Maragh from Seven Stars Resort, Pastry Chef Kenyatta Forbes from The Palms TCI, and Bartender Ronel Charles from Seven Stars Resort.

St. Lucia’s team comprises Senior Chef Nerville Joseph from Jade Mountain, Junior Chef Kayla Joseph from Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, Pastry Chef Emmany Hippolyte from Anse Chastanet, and Bartender Ninus Charlouis from Ladera Resort.

The U.S. Virgin Islands will be represented by Senior Chef Kerish Robles from UVI Cell, Pastry Chef Azamat Sabyrkulov from The Ritz Carlton, and Bartender Putrice Bush from 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. CHIEF brings together hospitality thought leaders, with sessions on sustainability, culinary tourism, and marketing innovation led by prominent industry figures.

For more information on Taste of the Caribbean, you can visit the official website at http://chtataste.com

To learn more about the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association, visit http://www.CaribbeanHotelandTourism.com.

This year’s Taste of the Caribbean promises to be an unforgettable culinary journey, showcasing the rich flavors and talents of the Caribbean region. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor the flavors of the Caribbean and experience the best of the region’s culinary excellence.

More Food & Wine News