Anguilla chefs secure second place at Nevis Mango Festival competition

A pair of Anguillian chefs earned second place in their debut appearance at the Nevis Mango Festival culinary competition, finishing just six points behind the host island.

Taking part as Team Hook and Harvest, they showcased Anguilla’s culinary talent at the festival’s signature ‘For the Love of Mangoes’ event at the Malcolm Guishard Recreational Park on 5 July.

The competitors were Karimah Carty, culinary trainer at the Anguilla Community College and owner of Remah’s Delights, and Rakev Webster, founder and owner of Rtaste Catering.

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Joining as alternate and assisting with preparation was Makeame Mussington, a chef at Sharky’s Restaurant in West End.

The chefs, under the guidance of chef Dean Samuel, were challenged to prepare a vegan dish and a mystery basket dish featuring mango.

The food was judged by a panel of culinary experts led by celebrity chef Eric Adjepong, a Food Network personality and Top Chef finalist.

According to a Hook and Harvest press release on 6 July, the team members impressed the judges with both their creativity and presentation.

“Adjepong reacted enthusiastically upon tasting the dish, exclaiming, ‘Aw man’ before applauding the presentation and flavour. The moment quickly became one of the highlights of the competition,” it said.

Nevis claimed first place with 167 points, while Anguilla finished second on 161 points. St Maarten placed third.

“While the team narrowly missed the top prize by six points, this achievement is a testament to the skill, passion and dedication of everyone involved,” the press release said.

“Competing against outstanding chefs from across the region, earning second place is an accomplishment that reflects the strength of Anguilla’s culinary community.”

The Hook and Harvest initiative was launched in 2025 by Dr Carissa Webster-Lake to promote Anguilla’s farm-to-table movement by showcasing the island’s seafood, produce and culinary talent.

Speaking ahead of the competition, she said it was an opportunity to showcase Anguilla’s chefs on a regional stage.

“Our chefs are ready, and with a flavouring of good corporate citizens and partners, I know we will represent with pride and the art of Anguillian excellence,” she said.

Hook and Harvest thanked the Nevis Tourism Authority for hosting the festival as well as its government and corporate partners.

The 12th annual Nevis Mango Festival, hosted by the Nevis Tourism Authority from 2 to 5 July, celebrated Caribbean cuisine and locally sourced ingredients.

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