Grace Foods USA’s “Jerk in the City 2026” Influencer Challenge celebrates Caribbean flavor

In celebration of Caribbean-American Heritage Month (CAHM), Grace Foods USA turned up the heat with the Jerk in the City 2026 Influencer Challenge—an exciting culinary competition that brought together some of South Florida’s most dynamic influencers, content creators, and food enthusiasts for an unforgettable celebration of Caribbean flavor, creativity, and culture.

Hosted in the City of Hollywood, the event challenged participants to create bold, innovative dishes using Grace Honey Jerk Sauce, showcasing the versatility of one of Grace’s signature products. From sweet and savory creations to inventive twists on classic favorites, each dish reflected the contestants’ unique personalities while celebrating the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean.

Adding even more excitement was an exceptional panel of judges, each bringing a distinct culinary perspective and wealth of expertise. Chef Krystal “Kryssi” Powell, an award-winning Caribbean fusion chef, restaurateur, and founder of Lume Bistro & Lounge, evaluated each dish with her signature creativity and culinary excellence. Joining her was Mariette Williams, a respected Caribbean food and travel writer whose deep appreciation for Caribbean cuisine and storytelling offered a unique lens on the competitors’ creations. Completing the panel was Shari Gherman, acclaimed sommelier and founder of the American Fine Wine Competition, whose refined palate and expertise in flavor profiling added another dimension to the judging process. Together, they challenged, encouraged, and celebrated the competitors while selecting the standout dishes of the day.

Grace Foods USA proudly champions Caribbean-American Heritage Month each year through initiatives that celebrate the region’s rich culinary traditions and cultural contributions. The Jerk in the City Influencer Challenge exemplified that commitment by creating an engaging platform where food, culture, and digital storytelling intersected, introducing Caribbean flavors to new audiences while strengthening connections within the community.

With Independence Day just around the corner, the event also served as the perfect kickoff to the Fourth of July holiday, inspiring families and friends to “Chill and Grill with Grace.” Whether firing up the grill for backyard barbecues or experimenting with new recipes at home, Grace Honey Jerk Sauce proved to be the perfect ingredient for creating memorable meals all weekend long.

More than just a cooking competition, Jerk in the City 2026 was a vibrant celebration of Caribbean heritage, culinary innovation, and community spirit—bringing people together one delicious bite at a time.