Barbados Reigns at 2024 Taste of the Caribbean Competition

Culinary excellence took center stage as Barbados claimed the title of Caribbean National Culinary Team of the Year at the 2024 Taste of the Caribbean competition. Bonaire's Rhashindra Donge also dazzled the judges, earning the prestigious Caribbean Chef of the Year award. 

Hosted by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), the event celebrated the region's finest culinary talent and took place alongside the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) at Florida International University’s Kovens Center in Miami from November 18-20.

“Taste of the Caribbean is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of our region’s unique culinary heritage,” said Vanessa Ledesma, CEO of CHTA. “This event underscores our commitment to empowering Caribbean culinary and hospitality professionals, fostering community, and showcasing world-class talent.”

Culinary Highlights and Awards

This year’s competition marked a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus, featuring seven Caribbean destinations: Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Bonaire, Puerto Rico, Saint Lucia, Turks & Caicos, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The event delivered a thrilling mix of friendly rivalry and creative excellence, with the following standout achievements:

• Caribbean Bartender of the Year: José “Yeye” Ortega (Puerto Rico), also awarded Best Rum Drink, Best Mystery Bar Drink, and Most Creative Bartender.
• Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year: Emmany Hippolyte (Saint Lucia).
• Caribbean Junior Chef of the Year: Dejuan Toppin (Barbados).
• Best Use of Beef (Sponsored by Certified Angus Beef): Rhashindra Donge (Bonaire).
• Best Non-Alcoholic Drink: Alex Chandler (Barbados).
• Most Innovative Dish Utilizing Indigenous Ingredients: Junior Chef Dejuan Toppin (Barbados), recipient of the Hans Schenk Commemorative Award.
• Tony Mack Spirit of the Competition: Saint Lucia’s team manager, Fabien Vigee.
• Josue Merced-Reyes Spirit of the Competition Winner: Kelvin Ventura (Bonaire).

Vanessa Ledesma highlighted the event’s role in building connections and community among participants. The competition not only fostered regional pride but also served as a platform for professional growth through workshops, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities.

As the curtains close on this year’s event, the Taste of the Caribbean once again reaffirmed the richness and diversity of Caribbean cuisine, leaving participants and attendees inspired and eager for more in 2025.