Jamaica has once again solidified its place as a top culinary destination, earning prestigious recognition at the 5th annual World Culinary Awards held in the United Arab Emirates on October 2nd. The country was voted the Caribbean’s Best Culinary Destination of 2024, while Montego Bay was named the Caribbean’s Best Culinary City—a double win for the island nation.
This marks the fifth consecutive year that Jamaica has claimed the title of Best Culinary Destination in the region.
Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, expressed his pride in the achievement, saying, “We are honored to be recognized as the Caribbean’s top culinary destination, and I am fortunate to know firsthand why we are considered a culinary capital.”
Bartlett highlighted the island’s diverse and rich flavors, which are deeply rooted in both local culture and global influences. He noted iconic Jamaican dishes such as ackee and saltfish, jerk chicken, as well as the country’s renowned tropical fruits, Blue Mountain coffee, and rum, as key elements drawing visitors back to the island year after year.
Montego Bay’s win as Best Culinary City, for the second year in a row, further underscores the island’s culinary prominence. “Montego Bay is home to some of Jamaica’s best culinary experiences,” said Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism. “From oceanfront grills along the Hip Strip to lively bars and fine dining, our culinary professionals work hard to provide extraordinary experiences for both locals and visitors.”
With these accolades, Jamaica continues to cement its reputation as a global culinary hotspot, driven by its vibrant food culture and dedicated culinary community.
