Jamaica Bartender Week (March 17-23) culminated in the Jamaica Bartenders’ Expo at the Police Officers’ Club in St Andrew. The event brought together industry vendors, brand ambassadors, and cocktail enthusiasts for a day of exhibitions, tastings, and live demonstrations. The highlight of the event was the 2025 Jamaica Top Bartender Competition, where eight of Jamaica’s most talented bartenders competed for the prestigious title, testing their skill, creativity, and knowledge of both classic and innovative cocktails. After a fierce and entertaining battle, Najee Bascoe, a bartender from Steakhouse on the Verandah, emerged victorious, earning a one-year internship contract with J Wray & Nephew Limited. Last year’s winner, Dwayne Johnson of Republic Bar, was second and Shennel Hunter of One Park finished third — the only female bartender to have placed as a finalist over the last three years.

Keeping the energy level high throughout was the event’s master of ceremonies Carla Hollingsworth.

Saturday Social brings highlights.