“A marriage of luxury and gastronomy” was the description given of the 15th annual Cayman Cookout 2024. It was deemed that and more by those who added lunch at GoldenEye to their itinerary.

It was a veritable “pinch me” moment for those who landed at the Ian Fleming International Airport early Thursday afternoon on Terry E Peabody’s private jet and were whisked away to GoldenEye for a Jamaican culinary affair complete with Craggy Range wines. Leading the group was Eric Ripert, chef/patron and visionary of New York City’s 3-Michelin star Le Bernardin.

Was he impressed? Indeed he was, based on his IG post made the very same day. “Special lunch experience in Jamaica!! Had such a wonderful time visiting the iconic @goldeneye resort for a beautiful and delicious lunch…

+ how cool was it that I got to sit in Ian Fleming’s Chair?”

So what does one serve a restaurateur whose establishment is hailed as one of the greatest in the world?

A decidely Jamaican spread prepared by Ian Fleming resident Chef Talcie Neil, that’s what! Food that is fresh, tasty and unique to the island. Food that tantalises the taste buds of the most discerning global travellers. Will people fly in ostensibly to dine?

Thursday Food has the receipts.

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Canapés:

Jerked tomato, pressed plantains

Spicy ackee atop sweet potato chip

Soup

Carrot coconut gazpacho

Salad

Spicy kale salad

Main

Whole Jerk Fish

Chicken Fricassee

Curry Goat

Sides

Pumpkin Salad

Twice-Roasted Yam

Steamed Bammy

Stuffed Cho Cho

Steamed Callaloo

Roasted Sweet Plantain

Dessert

Banana Fritters w/warm Blackwell Rum

Coconut Vegan Ice Cream

Chocolate Bark