Celebrating the 15th anniversary of the Cayman Cookout
Over 15 years ago, on a balmy evening in the Caribbean, the esteemed 3-Michelin-starred chef, Eric Ripert, found inspiration on the steps of the The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. Amid the luxurious ambiance, Chef Ripert was struck by the contrast between the gentle, tropical weather he was enjoying and the biting chill of New York’s winters. Eric shares, “We were sitting on the staircase, and we were drinking champagne. It was late at night, and the resort was quiet because it was right after the holidays. I thought it was such a shame because it was freezing up north and we are in this dreamy environment. What could we do to entice people to come here and have a good time and have some fun? The staff brainstormed, and we came up with the idea of a food and wine festival.”
Moved to share this experience, Ripert reached out to his friends and luminaries in the world of haute cuisine, including Anthony Bourdain and chefs José Andrés and Andrew Zimmern. Together, within the polished embrace of the Ritz Carlton, they conceived the now-legendary Cayman Cookout, a celebration of the senses that promises an unrivaled symphony of flavors under the Caribbean sky.
“Inspired by the allure of food, wine, and camaraderie, the Cayman Cookout blossomed from a vision shared among esteemed chefs and friends, a harmonious blend of culinary excellence, conviviality, and the spirit of adventure. Together, we craft a harmony of flavors that captivate the senses, inviting guests to revel in the magic of gastronomy amid the opulent setting of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.” – Chef Eric Ripert
This year, guests from around the world celebrated the 15th anniversary of culinary grandeur at the esteemed Cayman Cookout, skillfully orchestrated by The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, and spearheaded by the illustrious Ripert of Le Bernardin fame. A nexus for exceptional culinary prowess, the Cayman Cookout has become a revered conclave where master sommeliers, renowned distilleries, and the crème de la crème of the wine world convene.
This festival transcended ordinary gastronomic affairs and offered a sensory indulgence amid the pristine backdrop of Grand Cayman’s enchanting beaches. In honor of its crystal milestone, the Cookout introduced an electrifying repertoire of novel adventures crafted to elevate guests’ experience. Guests joined Ripert on a private jet tour, teed up with Zimmern, angled in the deep seas with chef Emeril Lagasse, and explored the underwater marvels with Andrés. Other cooking classes and events included world renowned chefs Kristen Kish, James Kent, Angie Mar, Enrique Olivera, Kwame Onwuachi, Orlando Soto, and Pano Karatassos.
Each facet of the Cayman Cookout was a tapestry of culinary intrigue, from awe-inspiring cooking displays to sumptuous feasts and vivacious tastings. Guests celebrated with chef-led luncheons, effervescent pool parties, and signature heritage events like the beloved Barefoot BBQ and Rum & Robusto.
This year, an exceptional performance by the iconic Goo Goo Dolls wove another layer of magic into the Cookout’s fabric, culminating in an energetic backyard concert. The pinnacle of the festivities was the Crystal Anniversary Gala Dinner. Hosted in the legendary Blue by Ripert, the gala was an unparalleled culinary odyssey where virtuosos of taste summoned their most innovative creations, delivering a symphony of flavors meticulously paired with world class wines.
About the Ritz Carlton, Grand Cayman
Nestled between the cerulean waves of the North Sound and the pristine Seven Mile Beach, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman offers an oasis of luxury sprawled across 144 acres of immaculate tropical paradise. Recognized as a Forbes Five-Star Hotel, this exquisite destination invites discerning travelers to experience its 369 rooms and suites, each meticulously designed by the renowned Champalimaud Design for peak opulence.
“As the general manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, it is a privilege to host the legendary Cayman Cookout, a celebration that embodies the pinnacle of gourmet excellence amid our oasis of luxury. Each year, we aim to craft an unparalleled symphony of flavors and experiences, inviting discerning travelers to indulge in the magic of this culinary conclave.” – Marc Langevin, General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman
The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman has launched its exclusive Cayman Cookout Room Package, offering an unparalleled culinary experience from January 15th to 20th, 2025. This package promises an unforgettable culinary journey that combines luxury, exclusivity, and the vibrant flavors of the Cayman Islands hosted by world-renowned Chef Eric Ripert.