The Barbados National Culinary Team Programme is an investment by the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association (BHTA) in local talent responsible for telling the story of Barbados’ rich culture through culinary artistic expression.
During the official launch of the programme held at Courtyard by Marriott on June 2, 2026, BHTA Chairman, Javon Griffith highlighted that “This programme is a statement. Not just about food. Not just about competition. But about who we are as a people, what we value, and how seriously we take our place on the world stage.”
“Barbados has spent decades carefully, deliberately building one of the Caribbean’s most respected culinary reputations. This programme is the highest expression of that commitment. And today, you become part of that lineage.”
This programme prepares individuals for the Taste of Barbados competition set to take place June 16 and 17, 2026, and the opportunities ahead. The winners of the Taste of Barbados competition will go on to undergo extensive training and preparation to secure a spot on the BHTA Barbados National Culinary Team and represent the island at major local, regional and international exhibitions, culinary events and competitions.
During the competitors’ briefing session, BHTA Special Projects Manager, Tessalee Moore, explained to the 95 competitors “This briefing is designed to ensure that you are fully informed and prepared for the competition ahead, with an opportunity to gain clarity on the rules, requirements, and competition process.”
Registration for the bi-annual qualifier for the award-winning BHTA Barbados National Culinary Team closed early due to the overwhelming response.
Culinary coach Willis Griffith described the turnout as one of the largest in recent years and said competitors should recognise the significance of potentially representing Barbados internationally: “A total of 95 across the four different categories. Compared to the years before, this is a very, very big turnout and I’m hoping to see a lot of talent come out of this.”
Mixology coach Rohan Hackshaw encouraged bartenders to approach the competition with confidence, noting that they would have only minutes to impress judges: “Bartenders have five minutes to shine. We don’t have two hours. We have five minutes. Just remember that you’re on stage like a movie star. So when you go on stage, smile. Just the same as though you’re in your bar.”
BHTA chairman Javon Griffith told competitors that the initiative extends beyond the local competition and forms part of a wider effort to strengthen Barbados’ tourism product and prepare professionals for regional representation.
“Food and beverage are among the most powerful expressions of culture. This is why the Barbados Tourism Association believes culinary development is a critical component of tourism development.”
Taste of Barbados is a key feature of the Association’s continued commitment to strengthening Barbados’ reputation as a leading culinary destination, while providing opportunities for local hospitality professionals to excel.
The competition opened to BHTA Members and hospitality students and serves as a celebration of the exceptional talent in the tourism industry, as well as a platform that brings together the island’s brightest culinary talent to showcase their skills and creativity.
