First…

The Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards unfolds its napkin for the 23rd staging scheduled for the lawns of Devon House, Thursday, September 29. The event — an awards ceremony and exhibitor’s event — was launched in the company’s executive boardroom on Thursday, September 1. Thirty guests, comprising culinary experts, sponsors and Foodie Seminar presenters were kept abreast of the events leading up to the big night, while rekindling relationships over brunch prepared by culinary artiste Oji Jaja. The brunch’s special dessert was created by multi-award-winning fine pastry chef Nadine Burie.

As she addressed the room of sponsors and stakeholders, Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards Chair Novia McDonald-Whyte said the event — birthed from her desire to create an ‘Oscars’ night in food — “could not have grown without your support”.

Select Brands luxury portfolio manager and longtime supporter of the region’s premier gastronomy event Debra Taylor-Smith was announced as the 2022 recipient of the Chairman’s Award, while Cal’s Manufacturing Ltd, represented at the event by director Lisa Watson, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award.

Four full scholarships and two bursars will also be presented to six final-year UTech students of the The School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.