The Flame & Spirit 2026 competition just pushed Trinidad & Tobago’s food scene to the absolute limit. From three-hour dessert marathons featuring baigan choka sponge to high-pressure mystery baskets, local chefs and bartenders completely rewrote the culinary rulebook. Meet Your 2026 Champions

• Chef of the Year: Nathanael Gebode (Oh My Eats) – Crushed the mystery basket with a masterclass of spiced crusted chicken, fish and shrimp salsa, and roasted pumpkin puree.
• Pastry Chef of the Year: Keenan Lezama (Chronicles of a Pastry Chef) – Shook the room with an audacious curry cream cheese mousse and baigan choka sponge.
• Junior Chef of the Year: Alejandro Mayers (Amara Restaurant) – Wowed judges with Geera spiced chicken, Scotch bonnet crusted shrimp, and cassava croquettes.
• Bartender of the Year: Ronaldo Auguste (Epic Sports Bar) – Swept the floor, taking the top title and winning Best Non-Alcoholic Drink for his signature cocktail, Sun Kissed.

Next Stop: Taste of the Caribbean These four champions are officially uniting as the National Culinary Team of Trinidad and Tobago to compete at the prestigious regional showcase in Barbados this November. They will be guided by Team Coach Chef Jeremy Lovell and Team Manager Michelle Young. Taste the Menu Early: The team will be hosting public practice dinners soon. It’s your chance to eat the competition menu firsthand and give direct feedback before they fly out. Stay tuned for official date announcements! For more details or booking inquiries, contact the Tourism Industry Association of Trinidad and Tobago (TIATT) at tiattsecretariat@gmail.com.