Caribbean's Dream Culinary Destination Initiates Third Annual Wine and Culinary Event
Revamped Article:
Welcome to the Bahamas, a tropical paradise that doesn't just offer swaying palms, powdery white sand, and vibrant azure waters, but a burgeoning culinary scene that's rapidly becoming another compelling reason to visit. The spotlight is on the third annual *Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival, an event running from March 12-16*. This five-day extravaganza brings together an eclectic mix of international and local talent, transforming Atlantis Paradise Island into a non-stop party of flavors and beats.
Food enthusiasts can expect to rub shoulders with celebrities like Bobby Flay, Kardea Brown, Katie Lee, and Michael Symon, who join returning favorites such as master mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim, José Andrés, Michael White, Alon Shaya, and JJ Johnson. The festivities will also play host to special night performances by Baha Men at the popular Tacos & Tequila event and reggae artist Shaggy at the festival's signature Jerk Jam event.
Bright Bahamian Stars
Besides the celebrity chefs, the festival highlights standout local talents such as Julie Lightbourn of Sip Sip, Kenneth McKenzie of McKenzie's Fresh Conch, Wayne Moncur of Sun & Ice, and William Young and Kyle Jones of The Dilly Club. These cherished local favorites will showcase their signature dishes, keeping tradition alive alongside the modern gastronomy on display.
Behind the Scenes
But putting on a show this grand doesn't come without its challenges. According to Jason Spencer, Atlantis' VP of Marketing and Events, "It's like a wine and food festival for us every day here." With over 40 restaurants and bars to manage, integrating another 50 participating local establishments, and ensuring everything runs smoothly during the festival week, it's an all-hands-on-deck effort. To accommodate the increased demand, they've introduced Island Food Tours, giving ticket holders an opportunity to visit featured Bahamian establishments directly.
mis en place - The Importance of Preparation
For Anthony Hannan, Atlantis Senior VP of Food & Beverage, preparation is key. "Before going into service, if you're not ready, things will be hectic and all over the place. When things are ready and in place, it's more enjoyable for everyone." With a staff of around 2,700 employees, Atlantis has the resources to handle the festivities, and Hannan notes they can flex to 3,000 when necessary.
Bahamian chef Julie Lightbourn of Sip Sip is eager to share her restaurant's offerings during the festival. "I look forward to the festive buzz, seeing old friends, rubbing shoulders with world-class chefs, and watching guests try their first Sip Sip lobster quesadilla." Despite the hustle and bustle, Lightbourn is excited to sample dishes from fellow chefs while showcasing her local fare.
Another local chef proud of his Bahamian roots is Edney Gaitor, of Café Martinique. A year into his role as Executive Chef, but nine years overall with Atlantis, Gaitor is particularly thrilled about the event his team will host at the festival's closing. "I'm biased, but excited about our Sunday brunch on March 16," said Gaitor. "We are the finale, the grand coup," he added. As one of the last events of the festival, they aim to make a lasting impression on guests with their culinary expertise.
Café Martinique, famous for its appearance in the 1965 James Bond film Thunderball, offers an elegant dining experience blending classic French cuisine with local Bahamian ingredients, particularly fresh seafood. Under the leadership of legendary Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, it's become a must-visit destination for luxurious dining during a stay at Atlantis. According to Hannan, Gaitor is one of the best local chefs on the island and is the first Bahamian executive chef in the restaurant's 64-year history.
From large-scale events led by prestigious chefs to intimate tastings and local tours, the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival has grown into a well-oiled machine, taking pride in showcasing the fusion of global talent with Bahamian culinary heritage. Surrounded by sun, sand, music, and mouthwatering meals, it's just one of the many reasons the area is earning its reputation as the culinary capital of the Caribbean.
"The beauty of our festival," reflected Spencer, "is that it is truly a community experience. It's not just Atlantis, not just Paradise Island, but all of Nassau, and that's extremely exciting."
- Celebrity chef Shaggy is set to perform at the Jerk Jam event during the Nassau Paradise Island Wine & Food Festival.
- Local chef Edney Gaitor, of Café Martinique, is eager to showcase his restaurant's offerings and host the closing event of the festival.
- Food enthusiasts visiting the festival can take Island Food Tours to visit featured Bahamian establishments directly, providing an opportunity to taste local cuisine.
