On a breezy January morning on Grand Cayman, the turquoise sea meets a stage unlike any other in the Caribbean. Chefs, winemakers and culinary enthusiasts gather along Seven Mile Beach, cocktails in hand, ready for a week where food becomes spectacle, tradition meets innovation, and the world’s top talent comes together on one island.
This is the Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout — and in 2026, the region’s most prestigious culinary festival is returning in grand style. Tickets officially go on sale Oct. 1 for the 17th edition of the Cayman Cookout, taking place Jan. 14–19, 2026 at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman. The event coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Caribbean’s first and only Forbes Triple Five-Star resort, making this year’s celebration one of the most anticipated yet.
From exclusive beachside soirées to masterclasses led by the world’s most celebrated chefs, the Cayman Cookout isn’t just a food festival — it’s a week-long immersion into culinary excellence, island beauty and community spirit.
A Lineup of Culinary Icons
The 2026 Cayman Cookout will bring together an extraordinary roster of talent: Eric Ripert, José Andrés, Andrew Zimmern, Stephanie Izard, Carla Hall and more than 60 chefs, mixologists and culinary visionaries.
Guests can expect cooking demonstrations that blend technique and storytelling, tastings guided by experts, and excursions that transform Grand Cayman itself into an open-air kitchen.
“This year they can look forward to a week of unforgettable culinary moments and bold experiences that honor both the two-decade legacy of our resort and the spirit of Grand Cayman,” said Marc Langevin, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.
Among the new highlights for 2026: a health-forward panel hosted by Andrew Zimmern with Gavin Kaysen and Gregory Gourdet, and Haitian and Chinese-inspired cooking demonstrations by Gourdet and Ming Tsai. Chef Eric Ripert calls it “a stage for unmatched culinary experiences” — from jazz dinners to barefoot barbecues under the stars.
Signature Experiences You Won’t Find Anywhere Else
The Cayman Cookout is known for its spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime events. The 2026 edition features more than a dozen signature moments:
An Epicurean Eve will open the festival with a glamorous reception presented by Forbes Travel Guide, honoring both the Cookout and the resort’s milestone anniversary.
Wheels Up Journey to GoldenEye invites guests to join Eric Ripert on a private jet to Jamaica’s legendary GoldenEye resort for a curated lunch and exclusive tour.
José Andrés’ Longer Tables Live returns for a special live podcast recording with a mystery guest, exploring the power of food to shape communities.
Christophe Bellanca leads an intimate masterclass on the essential techniques of French cuisine, while Elena Reygadasreimagines Mexican culinary traditions through a lens of sustainability and cultural expression.
Stephanie Izard will host Duck, Duck, Cayman, a one-night-only beachfront feast showcasing her bold Chicago flavors. Gavin Kaysen explores contemporary American cuisine in Modern Midwest, a rare glimpse into his culinary philosophy.
Guests can even join Ripert & Pétanque, a spirited pétanque match with chefs and rosé, or lend a hand at Meals on Wheels, assembling meals for local Caymanians alongside star chefs.
The week concludes with The Grand Finale Dinner at Blue by Eric Ripert, a multi-course culinary celebration that gathers the world’s best chefs for one extraordinary night, honoring two decades of culinary innovation on Grand Cayman.
How to Experience Cayman Cookout 2026
Tickets for individual events and accommodations go on sale Oct. 1 at caymancookout.com.
For the ultimate experience, guests can book the Cayman Cookout Room Package, starting at USD 2,600 per night for two guests (five-night minimum). The package includes luxury accommodations, daily in-room gourmet surprises and exclusive access to flagship events like An Epicurean Eve, Barefoot BBQ, and Rum & Robusto. Reservations can be made via caymanreservations@ritzcarlton.com or +1 (345) 815-6300.
As the Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman celebrates 20 years of luxury and the Cayman Cookout marks its 17th edition, this year’s event promises something even more remarkable — a celebration of culinary mastery, island heritage and the timeless allure of Grand Cayman itself.
Karen Udler
2025-09-29 20:24:00