Experience the Cayman Islands' Diverse Epicurean & Wine Culture at Eighth Annual Cayman Cookout

Tickets Now Available to the Caribbean's Premier Culinary Event Hosted by Chef Eric Ripert and Friends in January 2016

News provided by

Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

Oct 02, 2015, 09:31 ET

GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, Oct. 2, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Tickets are now on sale to attend the Caribbean's most anticipated epicurean event of the year, Cayman Cookout, led by renowned Chef Eric Ripert from January 14-17, 2016 in the Cayman Islands. Hosted by the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism, The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, and Food & Wine Magazine, the eighth annual celebration features an impressive roster of acclaimed chefs, sommeliers and mixologists to provide guests with a complete immersion of the destination's unmatched wine and dine scene. To purchase tickets or select packages, please visit the Cayman Cookout event website.

Attendees this year can look forward to the return of Cookout veterans, Anthony Bourdain and Jose Andres, along with a number of expert newcomers including Tom Colicchio, Florian Bellanger, Dean Fearing, Hubert Keller, Cindy Hutson, Ludo Lefebre, Dean Max and Michael Mina. Alongside Chef Ripert, each of these chefs will introduce all that the "Culinary Capital of the Caribbean" has to offer amid the stunning backdrop of the Cayman Islands.

Foodies and oenophiles alike will delight in this four-day culinary extravaganza, providing unmatched access to expert demonstrations, wine tastings and mixology classes led by some of the most influential names in the industry. Kicking off the weekend is Chef Jose Andres with a vibrant lesson in paella making, during which he will also indulge guests with his own tips and spirited stories of the trade. Attendees can choose from a diverse line-up of events, from "The Rundown with Anthony Bourdain" in which he will sample and discuss local flavors with the best of Cayman's own chefs, restauranteurs and local artisans, to "An Afternoon at Blue with Tom Colicchio" featuring an unforgettable lunch at Chef Ripert's premier Grand Cayman restaurant.

Back by popular demand is the "Barefoot BBQ Presented by Certified Angus Beef," a memorable grilling session led by Chefs Eric Ripert, Anthony Bourdain, Jose Andres, Cindy Hutson, Dean Max and more, where guests mingle and dine under starry night skies to the calming sounds of breaking waves. Wine and cocktail aficionados can also raise a glass to paradise at a reserve wine tasting with star winemaker and top French producer, Jean Luc Colom, or watch a skilled mixologist prepare new and classic cocktails with unique Caymanian flair.

"The energy and excitement that envelops Grand Cayman during the annual Cayman Cookout is truly something not to be missed," said Deputy Premier, and Minister of Tourism, the Honourable Moses Kirkconnell. "Our sponsors and island partners continue to raise the bar each year with an impressive roster of events and acclaimed chefs that pay testament to our vibrant food culture and spirited Caymanian traditions that keeps visitors returning year after year."

"It brings our community great joy to welcome these renowned chefs and special guests to our shores each year in celebration of all that our destination has to offer the epicurean traveler," adds Director of Tourism, Rosa Harris. "This year's event is expected to be bigger and better than ever as we introduce some of the world's top gastronomic experts to the unforgettable Caymankind experience in a breathtaking setting that only the Cayman Islands can provide."

"As the culinary festival experts, FOOD & WINE creates singular experiences that bring together incredible talent, amazing food and wine, and spectacular locations," said Senior Vice President and Publisher of FOOD & WINE, Christina Grdovic. "The Cayman Cookout is always a standout event for us and we look forward to being endlessly entertained by the A-List lineup of Eric Ripert and friends with the stunning Cayman Islands beaches as backdrop. After eight years, this event continues to attract visitors to the culinary capital of the Caribbean with an extraordinary roster of chefs, sommeliers, experts, and mixologists."

To purchase tickets or book a trip, visit www.caymancookout.com, or to plan your trip before Cayman Cookout, visit us at www.caymanislands.ky. Join the Cayman Cookout conversation on Twitter at @CaymanCookout and @Cayman_Islands and use #CaymanCookout.

About the Cayman Islands

Frequently referred to as "the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean," the three Cayman Islands offer world-class hotels and elegant resorts, luxury condominiums and secluded villas, all with unsurpassed service, and an eclectic array of fine food options. With more than 150 restaurants, unwinding with a good meal in the Cayman Islands can include chic five-star dining as well as a more casual venue under the stars. From traditional Caymanian seafood, to Caribbean and Thai, Italian or New World, discerning diners are sure to find something to fit their taste.

Located 480 miles south of Miami in the vibrant tranquillity of western Caribbean, this trio of tiny islands is a premier destination for discriminating travellers, honeymooners and families. World renowned for its idyllic beaches and diving spots, and recognized as a sophisticated, diverse financial centre, the Cayman Islands offer spectacular recreational opportunities along with warm, impeccable service. To learn more about the Cayman Islands, visit www.caymanislands.ky or www.divecayman.ky or call your local travel agent.

About FOOD & WINE

FOOD & WINE is the ultimate authority on the best of what's new in food, drink, travel, design and entertaining. FOOD & WINE has an extensive social media following on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr and Foursquare. FOOD & WINE includes a monthly magazine; digital editions on the iPad, Kindle Fire and Nook Color; a website, foodandwine.com; a books division; FWx, a digital brand and website for millennials; plus newsletters, clubs, events around the globe and a restaurant partnership, Chefs Club by FOOD & WINE.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20151002/273388LOGO

SOURCE Cayman Islands Department of Tourism