Barbados – November 19, 2025 – The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has announced the winners of the 2025 Taste of the Caribbean, the region’s premier culinary competition and cultural showcase. Held alongside the Caribbean Hospitality Industry Exchange Forum (CHIEF) from November 16–18, this year’s event brought together the Caribbean’s most talented chefs and mixologists for a vibrant celebration of regional cuisine.

Bonaire was named the Caribbean National Culinary Team of the Year, securing its position as one of the Caribbean’s rising culinary powerhouses. Eleven destinations competed head-to-head in an exciting display of skill, creativity and national pride.

“Year after year, we see how much the talent of our chefs and mixologists continues to evolve. This edition showcased extraordinary creativity and the unique flavors of each destination,” said CHTA CEO Vanessa Ledesma. “We remain committed to supporting culinary and hospitality professionals across the region. Taste of the Caribbean reflects our mission to empower and elevate our talented community.”

2025 Category Winners

• Caribbean Chef of the Year: Jake Kelkboom (Bonaire)
• Caribbean Bartender of the Year: Alex Chandler (Barbados)
• Most Creative Bartender: Alex Chandler (Barbados)
• Caribbean Pastry Chef of the Year: Elise Weerstand (Bonaire)
• Caribbean Junior Chef of the Year: Gabrielle Martin (Turks & Caicos)

Special Awards

• Best Use of Watermelon (Culinary): Gabrielle Martin (Turks & Caicos)
• Best Use of Watermelon (Beverage): Ninus Charlouis (St. Lucia)
• Best Use of Certified Angus Beef – Senior: Giovanni Lapid (Turks & Caicos)
• Best Use of Certified Angus Beef – Junior: Dejuan Toppin (Barbados)
• Andre Niederhauser Award – Best Contemporary Caribbean Cuisine: Jake Kelkboom (Bonaire)
• Tony Mack Spirit of the Competition: Dalundra Fulford (Turks & Caicos)
• Best Use of Angostura Bitters: Frantjesko Leonora (Curaçao)
• Best Non-Alcoholic Drink: Cristian Silva Aparicio (Bonaire)
• Best Rum Drink: Ninus Charlouis (St. Lucia)
• Best Mystery Bar Drink: Frantjesko Leonora (Curaçao)
• Josue Merced-Reyes Spirit of the Competition: Nino Moreno (Belize)*

The 2025 edition was supported by Wyndham Grand Barbados, Sam Lord's Castle All-Inclusive Resort & Spa, along with key partners including Angostura, Certified Angus Beef, Mastercard, Interval International, ABA Global Marketing, SilverwarePOS, and the National Watermelon Promotions Board.