Honey Bun exec and Jamaica Observer Food Awards judge Krystal Chong is a ‘riot’…girlish laughter and comical banter fills the Spanish Court Hotel as the self-professed foodie dishes the good stuff.

What are you sipping?

Apple vodka with club soda.

What do you love about the Spanish Court Hotel?

I like that you can dress up and not feel out of place because the décor is so chic. And it has a European and very Jamaican feeling all at the same time.

Socialite or homebody?

That’s tough…I can sometimes be either in extremes.

You’re on the Jamaica Observer Food Awards judging panel, what’s that been like?

It’s been a great experience… I’ve always been very into food and it’s nice to meet other people who are very into food. It’s really interesting to meet people who are the creators of things and finding out why and how they became creators.

What’s the best thing about being a judge?

Trying the great new food options and the new restaurants.

What’s your must-have accessory?

It can’t be one, has to be two: chapstick and eyeliner… I’m Asian (laughs).

What’s your style?

I would like to think European-elegant.

Who does your hair?

Lois and Nicole at Magic Mirror on Ardenne Road… I love them.

Who does your nails?

Charlene at Nails Expressions, The Marketplace.

What perfume are you spraying?

Creed Acqua Fiorentina.

What’s in your handbag?

My BlackBerry, car keys, MAC lipstick and camera.

When you’re not at work, where’s the best place to find you?

Eating out!

What are your favourite restaurants?

It’s really hard to pick… when I lived in Paris I loved the Hotel Cost and L’Entrecôte. I also enjoy Nobu and anywhere in The Marketplace.

Who or what inspires you?

My parents; people who capitalise on their difference and uniqueness to gain a competitive edge. And people who are addicted to productivity and improvement.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

“Life is like art, you create your own thing.”

What’s in your car stereo?

Zip 103 FM.

What projects are you currently working on?

In September, Honey Bun will be starting the Honey Bun ‘School Dayz’ project and the theme this year is ‘School Maad’… it’s a campaign to inform kids of the importance of having an education.

And 10 years from now?

I want to have a family, and though I always want to be involved in my family’s business, I would like to have created something for myself, as well. And, even though this might sound corny, I’m hoping for Jamaica to be an ounce of what it can be. I also hope that those within my generation catch the vision to make a difference.