THE RITZ-CARLTON, GRAND CAYMAN BRINGS CULINARY ARTISTY AND ADVENTURE TO LIFE AT THE 16TH ANNUAL CAYMAN COOKOUT

WHAT:

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, in partnership with Chef Eric Ripert, hosted the 16th Annual Cayman Cookout, a premier celebration of gastronomy, culture, and the island’s exceptional hospitality. This year’s lineup featured culinary legends José Andrés, Kristen Kish, Andrew Zimmern, and Emeril Lagasse, honoring the vibrant flavors of the Cayman Islands.

Key highlights included:

• Sip and Serve by Whispering Angel Rosé: A unique kickoff blending friendly Pickleball at The Courts Tennis Center with the elegance of Whispering Angel Rosé.
• Lionfish Cull Experience with José Andrés: Chef José Andrés led an exciting adventure where attendees dove into the waters to catch the invasive lionfish. Afterward, Chef Andrés demonstrated how to cook and prepare the fish in a culinary experience that highlighted sustainability and the flavors of the sea.
• Journey to Jamaica with Craggy Range: Guests joined Chef Eric Ripert and Terry Peabody on a private jet to GoldenEye resort, enjoying a locally inspired lunch paired with Craggy Range wines.
• Soulful Tradition with Chef Daniel Boulud: A French-inspired culinary demo paired with Lingua Franca wines, showcasing soulful, innovative cuisine.
• Chef Kristen Kish’s Culinary Demo: A fusion of French, Italian, and Midwest influences paired with Cayman Spirits cocktails, featuring Kish’s fresh take on global flavors.
• Chef Mawa McQueen’s Kitchen: The Aspen-based chef brought her Afro-Mediterranean cuisine to Saint June, paired with Lingua Franca Wines.
• Longer Tables Live: José Andrés at Cayman Cookout featuring George Russell: A live recording of Chef José Andrés’ podcast, Longer Tables, where he engaged in dynamic conversations about food with notable guests from the culinary world and beyond.
• After Glow Pool Party by Moët & Chandon: A glamorous soirée at the Harbour Pool with music, Moët & Chandon champagne, and guests dressed in white, red, and gold.
• Bon Vivant Chef Competition Brunch: A culinary duel between Chef Andrew Zimmern and Chef Dean Max, supporting the Young Chef Young Waiter competition.
• The Grand Finale Dinner at Blue by Eric Ripert: A masquerade-themed black-tie event featuring multi-course creations by world-renowned chefs, paired with exquisite wines.
• Looking ahead, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman is already planning the 2026 Cayman Cookout, promising an even more extraordinary celebration of culinary excellence and unforgettable experiences.

WHO:

Headlining Talent:

• Aldo Sohm
• Andrew Zimmern
• Ashley Christensen
• Charles Joly
• Claude Le Tohic
• Daniel Boulud
• Dean Max
• E.J. Lagasse
• Emeril Lagasse
• Emma Bengtsson
• Eric Ripert
• Gonzo Jimenez
• José Andrés
• Jorge Vallejo
• Kristen Kish
• LP O’Brien
• Marie-Christine Osselin
• Mawa McQueen
• Michael Kennedy
• Orlando Soto
• Ron Hsu
• TJ Vong
• Tony Abou-Ganim

Special Guests:

·       George Russell, Racing Driver, Formula One for Mercedes

WHEN:

Wednesday, January 15 – Monday, January 20, 2025.

WHERE:

The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Seven Mile Beach, KY1-1209, Cayman Islands