Chef Davidson Henry of BodyHoliday Saint Lucia has been crowned winner of the Independence Gold Cuisine Challenge, held in celebration of Saint Lucia’s 46th Independence Anniversary.
The culinary competition, organised by Dove Productions in partnership with Island Ripple, took place over seven episodes and featured chefs from top local resorts and the Youth Economy Agency.
Each contestant was tasked with creating an innovative twist on the national dish, green fig and saltfish.
The finalists represented:
- Sandals Grande St Lucian
- Calabash Cove
- BodyHoliday
- Sandals Regency La Toc
- Sandals Halcyon
- Windjammer Landing
- The Youth Economy Agency
Each chef was filmed preparing their dish at their home base, while also sharing personal stories about their culinary journey. Entrepreneurial mixologists from the Youth Economy Agency paired cocktails with each dish.
At the prize-giving ceremony, held on 3 April at Kafetye Café in Castries, medals, aprons and gifts were presented to all participants. Chef Henry—also known as Chef Nassis—took home the top prize for his “Iyanola Rolls”, receiving a custom Champion Chef’s Jacket and a gift pack from Saint Lucia Distillers.
Guests at the event enjoyed samples of dishes and cocktails, with live mixing by a guest mixologist.
The organisers say they are committed to expanding innovative culinary programming in the future.
Sponsors included: Massy Stores, Harry Edwards Jewelers, Kafetye Café, and Orlando’s Restaurant and Bar.