Cayman Cookout 2026: A Gastronomic Escape at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

Mark your calendars: the 17th annual Cayman Cookout returns from January 14 to 19, 2026, hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands.

What to Expect:

The Cayman Cookout isn't just another food festival, it's an intimate celebration of culinary artistry, where luxury, technique, and terroir come together. It's a fun-filled week of food, music, beach, and memories that will last a lifetime. The chefs not only create some of the most amazing culinary dishes you will enjoy, but also create a unique and memorable experience around every corner, from dancing on the beach as the DJ spins the best tunes to making you laugh out loud at their cooking demonstrations.  

Join host Chef Eric Ripert and other Michelin-starred chefs, including José Andrés, Elena Reygadas, and Gavin Kaysen, alongside a remarkable roster of wine and spirits experts and global tastemakers for five days of culinary revelry at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman.

Over five days, guests will enjoy:

• Beachside barbecues showcasing open-flame techniques

• Barefoot beach BBQ party

• Food and beverage pairings designed to surprise and delight

• Live cooking and plating demonstrations by world-renowned chefs

• Insights into new trends and methods in cuisine and service

Some of the chefs confirmed include Andrew Zimmern, Daniel Boulud, Emeril Lagasse, Jorge Vallejo, Mawa McQueen, Ronald Hsu, and Gonzo Jimenez.

The Venue: The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman

The festival takes place at The Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman, a jewel on Seven Mile Beach renowned for its elegance and top-tier amenities.

Some highlights:

• It's a Forbes Triple Five-Star Resort

• The property stretches across 144 acres from Seven Mile Beach to the North Sound.

• It offers multiple dining outlets, high-end spa services, residences, beautifully appointed rooms and suites, plus a Greg Norman–designed golf course and other recreational offerings.

• The freshly redesigned spaces will serve as the backdrop for many Cookout events, adding an extra layer of luxury.

Tickets, Packages & What's Included

Tickets go on sale this fall. For those wanting the whole experience, Cookout packages include:

• Luxury accommodations at The Ritz-Carlton

• Airport-hotel transfers

• Priority seating at chef demonstrations

• Meet-and-greets with culinary artists

• Daily gourmet amenities

If you're only interested in select events, such as a tasting or a single chef's demo, individual tickets will also be available.

For current details and to purchase tickets and packages, visit the official Cayman Cookout site: www.caymancookout.com

Where to Follow & Social Handles

Stay updated on the latest chef announcements, behind-the-scenes moments, and gorgeous shots of the venue:

• Ritz-Carlton Cayman Cookout: @ritzcarltoncaymancookout

• Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman: @ritzcarltongrandcayman

Why It Matters

Cayman Cookout isn't just for chefs or foodies, it's for anyone of all ages who appreciates elegance, attention to detail, and experiences that linger both on the palate and in memory. For LA Living readers, it's a noteworthy January escape: warm weather, luxury resort life, world-class food, and an opportunity to mingle in a relaxed yet inspiring setting.

By IG @BillBakho