The second staging of the Negril Chamber of Commerce’s International Food and Wine event unfolded last Saturday evening on the beautiful white sands of the Boardwalk Village in that resort town.

The evening’s pace was decidedly laid-back as patrons, heeding the all-white dress code, casually chatted and sampled delicious offerings by some of the best chefs that side of the Rock. With a gentle sea breeze making for a cool night and appropriate background music, the evening seemingly melted away like the chocolate rum balls from Hedonism II. Speaking of melting away, mention must be made of the Hoisin barbecued baby back ribs from Royalton Negril.

Other participating hotels included Beaches and Sandals Negril serving up savoury Italian treats, Jamaican fare from Rockhouse (thumbs up on that pumpkin pudding), Mexican fare from Azul Sensatori, (that seafood and black rice paella, very interesting), while Couples Negril served up tasty Asian favourites, and Hedonism II had the Indian food lovers in buttered chicken and roti heaven. Wine selections were provided by Select Brands and Caribbean Producers Jamaica (CPJ).

Foodie heaven status aside, the event also carries a serious aspect: it is part fund-raising efforts by the chamber and is spearheaded by director and hotelier Richard Wallace.

The organisers are seeking to finance various community projects in and around Negril.

“The event was a success based on profit realised from the event,” Wallace stated. “We are still on track with our projects that we are implementing, including a sidewalk project, installation of garbage receptacles on the beach, the building of a training centre and a daycare establishment for tourism workers.

“We are happy with the positive feedback from patrons and our hotel sponsors; already persons have contacted us to express an interest in participating, or continued participation for next year. I really have to thank the hotels for their support,” Wallace concluded.

— TEXT & PHOTOS: ACEION CUNNINGHAM