By : JERMAINE CRUICKSHANK
The heat was on at the Cascadia Hotel as young pastry chefs, junior and senior chefs, bartenders and mixologists descended on the venue for the Tourism Industry Association of Trinidad and Tobago’s (TIATT) Flame and Spirit Competition. Armed with shakers, garnishes, piping bags and plenty of confidence, competitors arrived ready to showcase their skills and creativity. Before the cooking even began, contestants gathered around a vibrant display of fresh herbs, vegetables, spices and seasonings, selecting ingredients that would transform their dishes and cocktails into edible works of art. Throughout the day, bartenders wowed judges with innovative concoctions featuring local ingredients such as Trinitario chocolate and fresh local floral garnishes, while chefs demonstrated precision, flair and a passion for quality produce.
The competition was spearheaded by TIATT’s new president, Lisa Shandilya, General Manager of The Chancellor Hotel, and her team Jeremy Lovell – Head Coach for the National Culinary team; Barry Bidasie, Director of Tourism Industry Association of Trinidad and Tobago. Under their leadership, the association has taken on the challenge of reigniting interest in hospitality and culinary careers at a time when Trinidad and Tobago has been without a hospitality school for the past five years. Recognising that several industry initiatives had slowed, TIATT stepped into the gap, using the competition as a platform to inspire young people and nurture the next generation of culinary professionals. The event also forms part of preparations for Trinidad and Tobago’s national culinary team, which will represent the country at the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean competition, showcasing local gastronomy on the regional stage.
For organisers, the competition is about much more than medals and bragging rights. It is part of a broader effort to strengthen the country’s tourism product by creating authentic “where to dine” experiences and ensuring Trinidad and Tobago remains on the global radar as a culinary destination. In a first for the event, two competitors from Tobago brought the distinct flavours of their island home to the competition, incorporating homemade spice blends and traditional techniques that reflected the rich diversity of the twin-island nation’s food culture.
While sponsor support this year did not reach the levels organisers had hoped for, there was no shortage of enthusiasm and determination. Special thanks were extended to Trade, Investment and Tourism Minister Kama Maharaj, who attended and witnessed firsthand the talent, discipline and innovation displayed by the young competitors. As plates were presented and cocktails poured, the message was clear: investing in culinary arts, hospitality and tourism is an investment in the country’s future one that strengthens the economy, celebrates culture and empowers a new generation of leaders ready to carry Trinidad and Tobago’s flavours to the world.
