The energy was electric as a bubbling crowd, enjoying cocktails beachside under a twinkling blanket of stars, talked, laughed and toasted, kicking off this year’s beloved foodie event on Providenciales. This is just what the co-founders of the Caribbean Food and Wine Festival had in mind when they created the event seven years ago. And without fail, they have delivered a showcase of food, wine and industry talent that impresses each year.

This year the opening dinner hosted at the Grace Bay Club featured an Asian inspired five course menu created by famed London Chef Victor Yu with wine pairings from event ambassador Tuck Beckstoffer. The Women of Wine Lunch at Ocean Club’s Solana restaurant provided ladies a chance to enjoy a menu by none other than Food Network Star Melissa d’Arabian.

Guests of Friday night’s Gourmet Safari were treated to five incredible stops along the culinary tour of some of the island’s best restaurants including: Infiniti, Coyaba, Seven, Parallel 23 and Stelle. Individual courses were paired with selections from Landmark wines.

Providing a stunning end to the 3-day event, visiting from North Carolina, Chef Meherwan Irani impressed guests under the stars at The Shore Club with his interpretation of Indian Street food Caribbean style. Dishes were perfectly paired with wines from Tablas Creek.

Be sure to mark your calendar for this year’s event, planned for Nov 1 – 4, 2018. Check the website (caribbeanfoodandwinefestivaltci.com) and social media @cfwftci for up to date information. Tickets sell out fast, so get online early to book.

Images courtesy of Grace Bay Resorts