2005's Best Tastes of Belize

On Saturday night at the Radisson 16 chefs and 7 bartenders squared off in competition at the Taste of Belize event. But the event was more than just high culinary and bartending arts, it was a full fledged gala with a bevy of cultural music presentations. The first competition was for the junior chefs, the senior chefs and the bartenders. Here are the winners:

• Ms. Amy Knox, Chef at Victoria House in San Pedro, captured the title of “Best Chef of the Year 2005” with her savory Pan Seared Tilapia with Curry Jerk Shrimp, Caribbean Rapatouille, Green Onion Arepas and Ginger Wine Gastrique. As a part of her winning package, she received a trophy and cash prize of $1200.
• The second place winner, Jason De Ocampo of Global Spice Restaurant of the Philip Goldson International Airport, received a trophy and $800 cash prize.
• The third place winner, Patrick Haughton of Cayo Espanto in San Pedro, received a trophy and a $500 cash prize.
• Mrs. Corrie Pronk was awarded the title of “Amateur Chef of the Year” and received a certificate, a trophy, and a $500 cash prize for her Caribbean Hot Shrimp.
• The second place winner was Henry Jex, Banker at the Belize Bank, who received a trophy and a $300 cash prize.
• Enrique Luna, bartender at Victoria House in San Pedro, won the prestigious title of “Bartender of the Year” and his winning drink “Caipirinha” was dubbed as “Belize’s best new signature drink for 2005.” Additionally, Mr. Luna was awarded a trophy and a $500 cash prize.
• The second place winner, Marcia Jones of Radisson Fort George Hotel was awarded a trophy and $300 cash prize.
• The third place winner, Kenny Wilshire of Victoria House was awarded a trophy and a Belize tour package.