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.
“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.”
Here are the teams competing in the 2024 edition:
Representing Antigua & 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
Representing 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
Representing 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
Representing Puerto Rico:
- Senior Chef: Kevin Sánchez, Hotel Verdanza
- Pastry Chef: Neftali Carrero, Restaurante Julio César
- Bartender: José “Yeye” Ortega, Hotel Fairmont El San Juan
Representing Turks & Caicos:
- Senior Chef: Andre Maragh, Seven Stars Resort
- Pastry Chef: Kenyatta Forbes, The Palms TCI
- Bartender: Ronel Charles, Seven Stars Resort
Representing 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
Representing the U.S. Virgin Islands:
Bartender: Putrice Bush, The Buccaneer
Senior Chef: Kerish Robles, UVI Cell
Pastry Chef: Azamat Sabyrkulov, The Ritz Carlton