The much-anticipated Jamaica Hotel & Tourist Assocation (JHTA) Montego Bay Chapter social event, A Celebration of Fine Jamaican Cuisine, took place last Saturday at the historic Rose Hall Great House in Montego Bay. Organisers of the tourism calendar food and wine pairing event are hailing this as the best one yet, setting the stage for greater anticipation going forward.

The charity event showcases some of the best chefs and food offerings from the western city’s tourism stakeholders and doubles as the organisation’s main fund-raising initiative. JHTA Montego Bay Chapter Chairman Nadine Spence spoke with Thursday Food on the event’s success and charitable efforts.

“This year saw a record number of patrons. We appreciate the community support and expect an even greater turnout for next year. This event has grown into a staple on the tourism landscape in Montego Bay and we have found that the concept over the years is attractive to our patrons. It includes food and wine pairing stations supported by a team of the best chefs from the hotels. We present a feast for all palates, including specialties like suckling pig, paella, pastas, Middle Eastern cuisine, organic, seafood dishes, and an array of desserts,” Spence explained.

“We have earmarked the funds raised this year to benefit The Lethe school for the deaf in Hanover; and the Cartagena Basic School Playground project in Granville, St James; and the SOS Children’s Village, also in St James. In the past we had other projects such as Save the Boy as well as many other community events that have requested support from the fund,” Spence added.

Of course, the event presents a rich tapestry of exquisite fare and the respective hotels did not disappoint, with each station serving delectable fusions and experimental pairings for eager patrons. Entertainment was provided by Pace Band and comedian Curley Roberts.

“This year we had overwhelming support from industry partners such as Sandals, RIU, Playa Hotels & Resorts (Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa, Hyatt Zilara), Round Hill, Royalton, Secrets Resorts & Spas, The Tryall Club, Half Moon, Rose Hall Development, Deja Resort, CPJ, Rainforest Caribbean, WATA, Tai Flora, Jerk Shack, Pure Country, John Swaby Entertainment, SNL Tours and Tripple Glãr Lighting. We are extremely grateful to the many sponsors and patrons, and with this kind of support the event will be a success again next year,” Spence concluded.