Food and Beverage
Culinary Paradise Awaits: The 17th Annual Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout Returns in 2026
The 17th annual Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout returns Jan 14-19, 2026 with Eric Ripert, José Andrés & celebrity chefs. Tickets on sale October 1.
Last Updated on October 19, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Mark your calendars, food lovers—tickets for one of the Caribbean’s most anticipated culinary events go on sale October 1. The 17th annual Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout is set to transform Grand Cayman into a epicurean playground from January 14-19, 2026, and this year’s event carries extra significance as the legendary resort celebrates its 20th anniversary.
A Star-Studded Culinary Lineup
When world-class chefs gather on a Caribbean island for nearly a week of cooking, tasting, and celebrating, you know something special is about to happen. This year’s roster reads like a who’s who of the culinary world: Eric Ripert, José Andrés, Andrew Zimmern, Emeril Lagasse, Stephanie Izard, and Carla Hall are just some of the award-winning talent headlining the event.
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman—the Caribbean’s first and only Forbes Triple Five-Star hotel—will host more than 60 immersive cooking demonstrations, expert-led tastings, and transformative excursions throughout the five-day celebration.
“For the last 17 years, Cayman Cookout has transformed Grand Cayman into a stage for unmatched culinary experiences,” said Chef Eric Ripert. “From the approachable atmosphere of the After Glow poolside soirée to the debut of our new jazz dinner—every event is designed to create lasting memories found only at Cookout.”
Can’t-Miss Events and Experiences
The 2026 Cookout introduces fresh themes and experiences that showcase both culinary innovation and the genuine camaraderie among participating chefs. Here are some highlights:
An Epicurean Eve: The Grand Opening Reception
Presented by Forbes Travel Guide, this kickoff celebration doubles as a 20th anniversary party for the resort. World-class chefs will create signature dishes at interactive food stations, paired with outstanding wines—setting the tone for an unforgettable week.
Eric Ripert’s Wheels Up Journey to GoldenEye
For the ultimate culinary adventure, join Chef Ripert on a private jet experience to Jamaica’s legendary GoldenEye resort—the same retreat that once inspired James Bond. Guests will enjoy a locally-inspired lunch and explore the storied property’s lush surroundings.
José Andrés – Longer Tables Live
Chef Andrés brings his acclaimed podcast to Cayman Cookout for a live recording exploring how food impacts society and fosters connections. A special guest will be announced closer to the event.
Stephanie Izard – Duck, Duck, Cayman
The award-winning chef behind Girl & the Goat brings her bold, globally-inspired Chicago style to the beach for a one-night-only dinner experience. Expect shareable dishes, creativity, and pure culinary adventure.
Ripert & Pétanque Presented by Robb Report
Watch world-class chefs compete in this beloved Cookout tradition at Andiamo Circolo Sportivo. Enjoy delicious bites, crisp rosé from Domaines Ott, and the perfect blend of camaraderie and coastal charm—whether you’re playing or spectating.
Meals on Wheels Community Initiative
The event isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about giving back. Headlining chefs, media, and VIPs will prepare boxed meals for Caymanians in need, with several chefs joining the delivery to support the local community.
New Culinary Perspectives
This year brings exciting new programming, including a health-forward panel hosted by Chef Andrew Zimmern with Gavin Kaysen and Gregory Gourdet, plus Haitian and Chinese-inspired demonstrations from Gourdet and Ming Tsai. Chef Elena Reygadas will explore how Mexican traditions and innovation coexist on the plate, while Christophe Bellanca offers a masterclass in essential French cuisine.
The Grand Finale
The week culminates with The Grand Finale Dinner at Blue by Eric Ripert—the Caribbean’s only Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurant. This decadent multi-course dinner brings together all the participating chefs for one spectacular celebration, honoring both the resort’s 20-year legacy and 17 unforgettable years of Cayman Cookout.
How to Experience the Magic
Individual event tickets and overnight accommodations are available for purchase at caymancookout.comstarting October 1.
For the ultimate experience, book the Cayman Cookout Room Package starting at $2,600 USD per night for two guests (five-night minimum stay, January 14-19, 2026). This exclusive offer includes luxury accommodations, daily gourmet surprises delivered in-room, and access to signature events including An Epicurean Eve, the Marriott Bonvoy® Credit Card by Chase presents Barefoot BBQ, and a Rum & Robusto poolside celebration.
To reserve the overnight package, contact the resort at caymanreservations@ritzcarlton.com or call +1 (345) 815-6300.
A Milestone Celebration
“As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, this year’s Cayman Cookout takes on even greater meaning,” said Marc Langevin, General Manager. “Each year we strive to bring a more dynamic experience for our guests, and this year they can look forward to a week of unforgettable culinary moments and bold experiences that honor both the two-decade legacy of our resort and the spirit of Grand Cayman.”
Whether you’re a serious foodie, an aspiring home chef, or simply someone who appreciates world-class cuisine in a breathtaking setting, the 17th annual Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout promises an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Five days of culinary magic, genuine connections, and Caribbean beauty—all coming together on the white sands of Seven Mile Beach.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this legendary event. Tickets go on sale October 1 at caymancookout.com.For more information about The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, visit www.ritzcarlton.com/grandcayman or or call +1 (345) 943-9000.
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience.
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Food and Beverage
Put the Grill to Work In 2026
Transitioning from high-yield meals that serve a crowd to easy, homemade dinners can be a bit of a shock after the festivities are over. Save yourself the time and hassle of cooking after a season of gifts and gatherings with this Grilled Chicken Bundt recipe that lets the grill do the work for you.
(Family Features) Transitioning from high-yield meals that serve a crowd to easy, homemade dinners can be a bit of a shock after the festivities are over. Save yourself the time and hassle of cooking after a season of gifts and gatherings with this Grilled Chicken Bundt recipe that lets the grill do the work for you. For more time-saving family dinner ideas, visit Culinary.net. 
Grilled Chicken Bundt
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 4-6- 4 potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 8 Brussel’s sprouts
- oil
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder, divided
- 2 tablespoons onion powder, divided
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
- 1/2 stick butter, softened
- Heat grill to 350 F with one burner off for indirect heat.
- Cut potatoes, carrots and Brussel’s sprouts into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle with oil and mix in 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder and 1 teaspoon salt; set aside.
- Rub chicken with softened butter, remaining garlic powder, remaining onion powder and remaining salt.
- Place some veggies in bottom of bundt pan. Place chicken on top of chimney or tube of bundt pan. Fill pan with remaining veggies.
- Place pan over indirect heat and grill 1 hour, 30 minutes, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165 F.
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/
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Food and Beverage
Mix a Little Luck into Your Big Game Menu
Picture this: Your team is down three points, but the taste of victory is just one field goal away. Sometimes, all you need is a little luck and a whole lot of guac. Dip into good fortune this football season with help from this Good Luck Guac recipe.
Mix a Little Luck into Your Big Game Menu
(Family Features) Picture this: Your team is down three points, but the taste of victory is just one field goal away. Sometimes, all you need is a little luck and a whole lot of guac. After all, an estimated 250 million pounds of avocados are consumed during the Big Game each year, according to Hass Avocado Board Volume Data. That’s enough to fill 30 million football helmets with guac – but filling your belly instead is a win-win for good luck and great flavor. Dip into good fortune this football season with help from Avocado From Mexico’s Guac Guru, Rob Riggle, whose visionary Good Luck Guac recipe is ready to share just in time for the Big Game. Whether you’re in it for the football, the commercials or the snacks, this recipe can score major points with your entire crew.
Crafted for fans of every team, this bold, golden twist on a favorite football snack is infused with ingredients associated with good luck – edible gold flakes and pomegranate seeds – to get you through the most nail-biting moments of the game. The star ingredient is fresh, high-quality Avocados From Mexico that offer good taste, good nutrition, and good times. Beyond delicious dips, chips and lots of fun, hosting a watch party can also be a lot of work. Make sure your hosting duties don’t create interference or put you on the sidelines with these tips: Get a jumpstart on party prep. The day before the game, tidy up your space and prepare as much of the food as you can. For dishes best served fresh – like guac – take care of the ingredient prep, like chopping veggies. Create comfortable seating and viewing areas. For a watch party, you’ll want plenty of room for guests to sit comfortably where they can see the screen and have easy access to the guac. If there’s not enough space in the living room to fit everyone, consider bringing a TV to the kitchen so people can snack and watch at the same time. Know your guests. From non-alcoholic beverage options to additional entertainment like board games and kid-friendly activities, become a next-level party host by providing a setup tailored to your guests’ needs. One thing almost everyonecan agree on: Guac made with Avocados From Mexico can be the star of nearly any party’s snacking lineup. Make it your team’s lucky day with more game day recipes at AvocadosFromMexico.com/recipe. 
Good Luck Guac
Recipe courtesy of Rob Riggle on behalf of Avocados From Mexico- 4 Avocados From Mexico, halved, pitted and peeled
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon onion, minced
- 3 tablespoons pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 pinch edible gold leaf flakes
- In large bowl, mash avocados until chunky-smooth.
- Fold in lime juice, onion, pomegranate seeds and salt until well combined.
- Garnish with edible gold leaf flakes.
At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.
Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/
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Food
What Are Comfort Foods—and Why Do We Crave Them?
Comfort foods go beyond taste—they offer emotional reassurance, cultural identity, and nostalgia. Learn why we crave them and how they connect us.
What Are Comfort Foods—and Why Do We Crave Them?
Food & Beverage | The Knowledge Comfort foods are more than just meals—they are emotional touchstones. From a bowl of chicken noodle soup to a plate of mac and cheese, comfort foods provide familiarity, warmth, and reassurance during moments of stress, illness, or nostalgia. While comfort foods vary by culture and personal experience, their purpose is universal: they make us feel grounded, safe, and connected.What Defines Comfort Food?
Although comfort foods differ from person to person, they often share common characteristics:- Familiar and nostalgic – Foods tied to childhood or family traditions
- Warm and filling – Soups, casseroles, stews, and baked dishes
- Emotionally satisfying – Comforting beyond physical hunger
- Rich in carbohydrates or fats – Which can influence mood-regulating chemicals in the brain
The Science Behind Comfort Foods
There is real science behind why comfort foods make us feel better. Carbohydrate-rich foods can increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and promote a sense of calm. Warm foods also play a role. Studies suggest that warmth can enhance feelings of safety and emotional comfort, which may explain why soups, stews, and hot meals are commonly craved during stressful times or colder seasons. In short, comfort foods don’t just satisfy hunger—they support emotional well-being.Comfort Foods Are Cultural
Every culture has its own version of comfort food, shaped by tradition, availability, and shared history:- United States: Mac and cheese, meatloaf, mashed potatoes
- Mexico: Tamales, pozole
- Italy: Pasta, lasagna
- Japan: Ramen, curry rice
- India: Dal with rice
Why We Turn to Comfort Foods
People often crave comfort foods during moments of emotional or physical vulnerability, including:- Stress or anxiety
- Illness or fatigue
- Homesickness
- Major life changes
- Celebrations and family gatherings
More Than a Meal
Comfort food isn’t about indulgence or nutrition alone—it’s about connection. These dishes link us to people, places, and moments that shaped us. That’s why comfort foods endure across generations, cultures, and changing trends. Comfort food doesn’t just feed the body. It feeds the moment.Related Reading
- Why We Crave Comfort Foods – Smithsonian Magazine
- Why Comfort Foods Comfort – Psychology Today
- Why Comfort Foods Make Us Feel Better – Harvard Health
- Comfort Food and Cultural Identity – National Geographic
- The Science Behind Comfort Foods – BBC Future
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