A sweet Taste of Tortola

Several patrons gathered at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park on Saturday, June 15, as the BVI Tourist Board showcased the island’s cuisine through culinary businesses at this year’s Taste of Tortola.

Vendors from both new and established restaurants participated in this event, which forms part of the BVI Food Fete 2024.

Adorned in white attire, patrons came out to sample the island’s sweet and savoury dishes, also getting a taste of some good entertainment. Taste of Tortola was the first of many events for this year’s BVI Food Fete, and according to BVI Tourism Board Director Clive McCoy, the turnout was very pleasing.

McCoy stated that the proceeds from Saturday’s event will go to a top tourism student in the BVI and to encourage greater interest in the field.

“Competition in the tourism sphere is getting tougher every year; we can no longer depend solely on the sun, sand, and sea to attract people to the territory. We decided to showcase our culinary offerings and prowess,” McCoy said. “Tourism is everybody’s business,” he added.

A fairly new culinary business, Taste the BVI, presented the territory’s national dish, fish and fungi, to showcase local cuisine.

Meanwhile, Prime Restaurant showcased beef-centred dishes: Beef Korokke Croquette, which consists of grated potato mixed and pan-fried with beef, and Beef with Kofta Chimichurri.

The title of ‘The BVI’s Best Conch Chowder’ was contested between Pusser’s and Scrub Island, according to public opinion, while Trellis Bay Market Bar & Grill presented Mango Passion Ribs, a delicacy of ‘off-the-bone ribs’ in mango passion sauce.

Best Burger offered a Caesar salad turned burger option, and McCoy praised Hotdog and Things, stating, “I didn’t know a hotdog could taste so good.”

When patrons were asked which dishes they enjoyed the most, Prime Restaurant seemed to be a favourite, with several patrons praising its dishes.

Other businesses in attendance included ManJack Creamery and Capriccio di Mare.

Keith Dawson, Events Manager at the Tourist Board, explained that the event provides an opportunity for restaurants to boost their business while promoting the BVI.

The Miss BVI contestants were also reintroduced and showcased at the event. Seven young women will vie for the crown at the Miss BVI pageant scheduled for July, amidst the many activities planned for the territory’s 70th emancipation festivities.

The legendary Lobster Fest, also part of the BVI Food Fete, is hosted in Anegada every year and typically takes place in November.