Cayman Cookout 2026: A Gastronomic Escape at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

• Bill Bakho
• Oct 2
• 2 min read

Mark your calendars for the 17th annual Cayman Cookout, set to be held from January 14 to 19, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman. This event promises to be a unique celebration of culinary excellence in an idyllic setting.

What to Expect:

The Cayman Cookout offers a distinctive combination of luxury, culinary expertise, and a vibrant atmosphere. This event goes beyond a traditional food festival, featuring immersive culinary experiences where guests can enjoy various forms of entertainment. Attendees can expect everything from lively beach dancing to engaging cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs.

Chef Eric Ripert will host this prestigious event alongside a lineup of Michelin-starred chefs, including José Andrés, Elena Reygadas, and Gavin Kaysen. Attendees will also have access to a range of wine and spirits experts, enriching the overall culinary experience.

Over five days, guests can enjoy:

• Beachside barbecues showcasing open-flame techniques
• Barefoot beach BBQ parties
• Food and beverage pairings designed to surprise and delight
• Live cooking and plating demonstrations by world-renowned chefs
• Insights into new trends and methods in cuisine and service

Confirmed chefs include Andrew Zimmern, Daniel Boulud, Emeril Lagasse, Jorge Vallejo, Mawa McQueen, Ronald Hsu, and Gonzo Jimenez.

The Venue: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

The festival will be hosted at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, an esteemed resort located on Seven Mile Beach, known for its luxury and exceptional amenities.

Notable highlights of the hotel include:

• A Forbes Triple Five-Star Resort rating
• A sprawling 144-acre property from Seven Mile Beach to the North Sound
• Multiple fine dining outlets, a high-end spa, luxury residences, and recreational options, including a Greg Norman-designed golf course
• Redesigned spaces that will enhance the overall Cookout experience

Tickets, Packages & What’s Included

Tickets for the event will go on sale this fall. For those seeking a comprehensive experience, Cookout packages will include:

• Luxury accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton
• Airport-hotel transfers
• Priority seating at chef demonstrations
• Meet-and-greets with culinary artists
• Daily gourmet amenities

Individual tickets to select events will also be available for those interested in specific tastings or chef demonstrations.

Why It Matters

The Cayman Cookout attracts culinary enthusiasts and those who appreciate a luxurious and memorable experience. For visitors, it offers a chance to escape the cold winter months and enjoy exquisite food in a beautiful environment. This event is particularly appealing for anyone seeking warmth, gourmet dining, and a chance to connect in a relaxing, yet inspiring setting.

Reporting by Bill Bakho