Taste of Belize Showcases Belize's Culinary Talents

The Belize Tourism Board held its 7th Annual Taste of Belize Culinary Competition on Saturday, June 7th, at the Radisson Fort George Hotel which attracted the participation of 13 professional chefs, 6 amateur chefs and 9 bartenders and an audience of over 800.

Jason de O'Campo of Global Spice Restaurant at the PGIA captured the title of "Professional Chef of the Year 2008". As a part of his winning package, he received a trophy and cash prize of $1,200.00. The second place winner, Luis Cawich received a trophy and $800.00 cash prize. Third place winner, Aron Mai of Turtle Inn in Placenica, received a trophy and $500 cash prize.

The Amateur Competition consisted of public cooks, kitchen apprentices, and caterers. Patricia Lopez of Cayo Espanto, was awarded the title of "Young Professional Chef of the Year" and received a trophy and a $500.00 cash prize. The second place winner, Henry Jex of Happy Chick, received a trophy and a $300.00 cash prize. Third place winner, Elma Dominguez of Radisson Fort George Hotel, received a trophy and a $150.00 cash prize.

Enrique Alamilla of Duplooys in the Cayo District won the prestigious title of "Bartender of the Year" Additionally, Mr. Alamilla was awarded a trophy and a $500 cash prize. The second place winner, Marcia Jones of Old Belize, was awarded a trophy and $300 cash prize and third place winner, Calixtro Guerra of Windy Hill Cottages in the Cayo District was awarded a trophy and cash prize of $150.00.

Other participants in the professional and young professional chef categories included Patrick Rodriguez, Carlos Garrido, Calbert Santiago, Rosalva Reyes, Dylon Kyle Tiabo, Adina Tucker, Carlos Garrido, Roy Flowers, Juan Gabrielle Canto, and Gessenia Cook. The remaining competitors in the Bartending Category were Samuel Gabourel, Joseph Bodden, Kenny Williams, Sylvin Encalada, Kimarra Vernon and Leopoldo Arguelles.