There was much excitement Sunday last at the Spanish Court Hotel, Kingston, as four chefs competed for the Junior Chef Of The Year trophy. With main sponsors Best Dressed Foods providing the proteins and the starches, whole vegetables and sauces came from a mystery basket, it was non-stop action as Adonis Campbell, Oniel Gordon, Jonhoi Reid and Andrae Ellis worked against the clock under the watchful eyes of Culinary Federation of Jamaica judges: Steve Sowa, Michael Dannecker, and Daniel Schweizer as well as Reggae Jammin Brand Officer Caris-Ann Rhoden.

Anxiety reached fever pitch when a sudden deluge tested the resolve of many as stoves lost their flames and the downpour threatened to ruin carefully arranged plates. All ended well, however, with guest speaker and Minister of Agriculture Christopher Tufton applauding the chefs for making such excellent use of local produce, a definite plus for our farmers.

“Farmers and what they produce,” shared Minister Tufton, “is influenced by what is consumed…events such as this (one) build public awareness to the potential of locally grown food. Presentation also plays an integral part, hence the importance of having our trained chefs showcase the possibilities…I’ve tasted the offerings and have nothing but praise for the chefs.” The event was spearheaded by executive chef of the Spanish Court Hotel George Matthews.