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.
Last Updated on April 20, 2026 by Rod Washington
(Family Features) For a soup that smells as divine as it tastes, warm up your home with the fresh scents and flavors of Creamy Asparagus Soup. Pair with chicken salad croissants for a simple weeknight meal without the hassle then visit Culinary.net to discover more spring soup solutions.
Creamy Asparagus Soup
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy”
Servings: 4-6
- 2 asparagus bundles
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 3 cups broth of choice, divided
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons celery salt
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- chicken salad croissants, for serving
- Chop asparagus into bite-size pieces. In large pot, place asparagus, butter, onion powder, garlic powder and 1 cup broth. Cook over medium heat until asparagus gets tender.
- Transfer to blender with 1 cup broth and blend until smooth. Transfer back to pot and, over medium heat, mix in cream cheese, remaining broth and Parmesan cheese. Add celery salt and Italian seasoning. Cook while stirring, blending seasonings in well, then add heavy cream.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve with chicken salad croissants.
SOURCE:
Culinary.net
Food and Beverage
NYC to Host 5th International Volcanic Wines Conference on June 10
New York City will host the 5th International Volcanic Wines Conference on June 10, 2026 at Manhatta, featuring global volcanic regions, masterclasses, a Grand Tasting, and the Volcanic Wine Awards with JancisRobinson.com.
New York City is about to get a crash course in “wines with a sense of place.” Volcanic Wines International (VWI) announced the 5th International Volcanic Wines Conference (IVWC), set for June 10, 2026 at Manhatta in Manhattan. The one-day event brings together producers, sommeliers, buyers, journalists, and educators for tastings and masterclasses focused on wines grown in volcanic soils—an increasingly talked-about category known for its tension, mineral-driven structure, and unmistakable origin.
Why volcanic wines are having a moment
Volcanic vineyards sit on some of the planet’s most dramatic landscapes—think steep slopes, black sand, and lava-strewn terrain. But the conference isn’t just about scenery. The IVWC is built around a simple idea: volcanic terroir can shape wine in distinctive ways, influencing everything from texture and acidity to aromatics and perceived “energy” in the glass.
As VWI co-founder John Szabo, MS put it, volcanic wines often stand out for their “energy, structure, and clear sense of origin,” making them a natural fit for wine lists that prioritize discovery.
A global tasting tour—without leaving Manhattan
Hosted in what VWI calls the largest and most influential wine market in the U.S., the conference offers a rare side-by-side look at volcanic regions from around the world. Participating producers are expected from territories including:
- Etna (Sicily)
- Santorini (Greece)
- Canary Islands (Spain)
- Hungary
- Pantelleria (Italy)
- Lake County (California)
Masterclasses, seminars, and a Grand Tasting
The June 10 program is designed for wine professionals who want to go deeper than a quick sip. Attendees can expect guided tastings and educational sessions exploring how different volcanic soils—and the climates that surround them—can influence grape varieties and wine styles.
Seminars are slated to spotlight volcanic wines from:
- Soave (Italy)
- Etna
- Hungary
- Canary Islands
- Lazio (Italy)
The day also includes a Grand Tasting, where exhibiting wineries will pour for a curated audience of sommeliers, buyers, importers, educators, and media.
A new “Volcanic Origin” certification will be announced in the U.S.
One of the headline moments: the conference will host the official U.S. announcement of a new Volcanic Origin certification, created by the Vinora association of Auvergne, France. The certification is designed to help recognize authentic expressions from volcanic regions worldwide—an important step as interest grows and consumers look for clearer signals of provenance.
Volcanic Wine Awards + JancisRobinson.com partnership
VWI also highlighted a major media partnership with JancisRobinson.com for the Volcanic Wine Awards, an international competition celebrating standout wines from volcanic regions.
Award-winning wines will be featured on JancisRobinson.com and showcased in a dedicated space during the NYC conference.
“Volcanic regions produce some of the most characterful wines in the world,” said Tara Q Thomas, Managing Editor at JancisRobinson.com, adding that the partnership aims to bring greater attention to these terroirs.
The big picture: story-driven wine in a crowded market
Beyond the technical details, the conference is tapping into something the wine world is actively chasing: narrative and identity.
“Today more than ever, the wine world needs compelling stories that reconnect wine lovers with place and identity,” said Gino Colangelo, President of Colangelo & Partners and partner in VWI. Volcanic wines, he noted, offer “dramatic landscapes, ancient soils, and wines with unmistakable character.”
How to attend or exhibit
For information about exhibiting or attending, VWI directs inquiries to Bianca Panichi at bpanichi@colangelopr.com. Updates are also available at www.volcanicwinesinternational.com, with social channels on Instagram (@volcanicwines_intl) and Facebook (Volcanic Wines International).
What to watch for (STM Daily News)
- Whether the new Volcanic Origin certification becomes a widely adopted benchmark
- Which regions and producers dominate the Volcanic Wine Awards spotlight
- How volcanic wines continue to move from “sommelier obsession” to broader consumer demand
Hungry for what’s next? STM Daily News’ Food and Drink section dishes up the latest in restaurant news, beverage trends, seasonal recipes, culinary events, and food culture stories readers love to share.
Recipe of the Week
Creative Cupcakes to Complete Your Easter Feast
The Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes bring joy to post-Easter gatherings with a moist cake, creamy frosting, and delightful chocolate candies. The recipe, requiring a 30-minute prep and 15-minute cook time, offers a treat for chocolate lovers. For more dessert ideas, visit Culinary.net.
Last Updated on April 19, 2026 by Daily News Staff
(Feature Impact) Once the Easter baskets are put away and the main course is cleared from the kitchen, you can liven up the dessert table or send guests off with a thoughtful treat thanks to these Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes. Moist cake, creamy frosting and chocolate-coated candies combine for a seasonal sweet that’s sure to impress.
To find more dessert ideas that satisfy chocolate lovers – and all your loved ones – visit Culinary.net.
Chocolate Easter Egg Cupcakes
Recipe adapted from A Classic Twist
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Cupcakes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting:
- 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened and cubed
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
- 2-3 drops brown food coloring
- egg-shaped chocolate-coated candies
- To make cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350 F. Line 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In bowl of electric mixer, sift flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder and salt.
- In medium bowl, whisk egg, buttermilk, water, vegetable oil and vanilla extract.
- Mix dry ingredients on low speed 1 minute. Add wet ingredients. Mix 2 minutes on medium speed and scrape sides and bottom of bowl. Mix 1 minute on medium speed.
- Divide evenly among cupcake liners.
- Bake 12-15 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out almost clean.
- Cool cupcakes on wire rack.
- To make frosting: Using paddle attachment of electric mixer, whip butter 8 minutes on medium speed until pale and creamy. Add powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract and salt; mix on low speed 1 minute. Increase speed to medium and mix 6 minutes until frosting is light, creamy and fluffy. Add food coloring and whip 1 minute.
- Pipe frosting onto cupcakes and top with egg-shaped chocolate-coated candies.
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
SOURCE:
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/
