Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to paradise! The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, the only Forbes Triple Five-Star hotel in the Caribbean, is thrilled to announce that tickets are now available for the 16th annual Cayman Cookout. This premier culinary event, taking place from January 15-20, 2025, will be a five-day celebration of food, culture, and the stunning beauty of Grand Cayman.
Prepare to be immersed in over 60 unforgettable experiences, including hands-on cooking demonstrations, exclusive tastings led by culinary experts, and thrilling excursions. You’ll have the opportunity to mingle with and learn from world-renowned chefs like Eric Ripert, Daniel Boulud, José Andrés, Andrew Zimmern, and Kristen Kish, just to name a few.
For those who want to make the most of their culinary adventure, the Cayman Cookout 2025 Overnight Offer is the perfect solution. This exclusive package includes daily breakfast for two at Seven restaurant, convenient roundtrip airport transfers, and admission to the most anticipated events, including the Grand Opening Reception, the Barefoot BBQ, and the Moët & Chandon After Glow Celebration.
Marc Langevin, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, enthusiastically states, “The upcoming Cayman Cookout is set to once again define culinary excellence with a spectacular array of events that go beyond the ordinary. From savoring iconic dishes at our Grand Opening Reception presented by Wheels Up to an exclusive jet tour of Jamaica’s GoldenEye, guests will experience a week of exceptional flavors, immersive adventures, and the unparalleled beauty of Grand Cayman. It’s a celebration of extraordinary food, unique experiences, and the vibrant spirit of our island that promises to leave a lasting impression.”
Throughout the week, guests can elevate their culinary expertise through hands-on cooking demonstrations. They can also enjoy unique experiences like playing Pickleball with a renowned chef, joining José Andrés for a Lionfish Cull, and participating in a golf outing paired with a chef-prepared lunch. The event lineup is packed with exclusive gourmet experiences, beverage tastings, chef-hosted lunches, and relaxing poolside cocktails, offering a perfect blend of culinary adventure and leisure.
Chef Eric Ripert, a renowned culinary icon, highlights the event’s unique appeal: “The Cayman Cookout transforms Grand Cayman into a playground of extraordinary culinary experiences. From the laid-back elegance of the Barefoot BBQ to the vibrant celebrations of the Beach Bash, each event is crafted to captivate and delight. These distinctive experiences showcase not just world-class cuisine but also the lively spirit of the island, creating memorable moments that truly embody the essence of the Cookout.”
The Cayman Cookout is more than just a culinary event; it’s a celebration of community and shared passion. The headlining chefs create exclusive and personalized events throughout the week, fostering an authentic camaraderie among the participants.
Here’s a glimpse at some of the exciting events you can look forward to:
An Epicurean Eve: The Grand Opening Reception:
This unforgettable evening kicks off the festivities with exceptional flavors and celebration. World-renowned chefs will offer an array of signature dishes across various food stations, complemented by a curated selection of wines. Enjoy gourmet creations while mingling and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that captures the community spirit of the event.
Eric Ripert – Journey to Jamaica with Craggy Range:
Embark on a private jet journey to the famed GoldenEye resort in Jamaica with Chef Eric Ripert and Craggy Range owner Terry Peabody. This exclusive experience includes a scenic flight over breathtaking landscapes and a day spent at the iconic retreat that inspired James Bond. Guests will enjoy a gourmet lunch featuring the finest local ingredients, perfectly paired with Craggy Range wines, all while exploring the historic resort.
José Andrés – Longer Tables Live at Cayman Cookout:
Chef José Andrés will host a live recording of his popular podcast, Longer Tables, at the Cayman Cookout. Known for his culinary prowess and philanthropy, Andrés will engage in meaningful conversations with special guests from various fields, including media, politics, and the culinary arts. The discussion will focus on food’s role in fostering connections and social impact.
Daniel Boulud – Soulful French Tradition:
Chef Daniel Boulud, one of America’s most celebrated chefs, will showcase his mastery of French cuisine with contemporary twists. Attendees will savor a curated menu of Boulud’s signature dishes paired with exquisite Lingua Franca wines, creating an unforgettable tasting experience.
Sommelier Standoff:
This lively event features top sommeliers competing in pairs to deliver the best wine pairings, with guests serving as judges. Participants include Le Bernardin’s Aldo Sohm and Michael Kennedy of Fraîche Wine Group. As guests enjoy a multi-course dinner, they will vote on the winning wine pairings. A silent auction will also take place, benefiting ARK Cayman, a non-profit organization supporting local families through home refurbishments and educational initiatives.
Jorge Vallejo – A Seaside Mexican Feast:
Chef Jorge Vallejo of Quintonil in Mexico City will host a seaside lunch at the oceanfront Saint June restaurant, featuring vibrant Mexican flavors paired with wines from Paul Hobbs. This experience blends the richness of Mexico’s land and sea with exquisite culinary techniques, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
Mawa McQueen – Mawa’s Kitchen: From Aspen to the Caribbean:
Chef Mawa McQueen, known for her Afro-Mediterranean cuisine, will lead an exclusive demonstration featuring her award-winning dishes with a French-American twist. Paired with Mirabeau Rosé, this session offers a unique fusion of flavors from one of Aspen’s most celebrated chefs.
LP O’Brien – A Decadent Demo with Valrhona:
LP O’Brien, winner of Netflix’s Drink Masters, joins Valrhona chocolate for a unique demonstration pairing cocktails with rich Valrhona chocolate. O’Brien will showcase innovative ways to blend the world of chocolate and mixology, offering an unforgettable tasting experience.
Meals on Wheels:
The Cayman Cookout chefs will come together with media and VIPs to prepare boxed meals for Caymanians in need. This collaborative effort supports Meals on Wheels, with several chefs also joining in meal deliveries to show their solidarity with the local community.
The Grand Finale Dinner at Blue by Eric Ripert:
The week will culminate with the Grand Finale Dinner, beginning with a cocktail reception, followed by a multi-course meal prepared by a lineup of esteemed chefs. This exclusive evening will celebrate the artistry of top culinary talents, paired with some of the world’s finest wines, in a stunning beachfront setting on Grand Cayman’s Seven Mile Beach.For more information or to reserve the overnight package, guests are invited to inquire via email. Don’t miss your chance to experience the culinary magic of the Cayman Cookout 2025. It’s an unforgettable journey for your taste buds and your soul!
