Jamaica Observer Food Awards

The Jamaica Observer Table Talk Food Awards, the brainchild of larger-than-life fashionista, food critic, and Jamaica Observer lifestyle editor, Novia McDonald-Whyte, was established in 1998 to celebrate excellence in culinary presentation. It affords patrons an opportunity to taste what's new and different in Jamaica's food industry, with over 60 booths showcasing the country's scrumptious offerings, from the tried-and-true jerk sauces, rum, and Blue Mountain Coffee, to more exotic offerings. Top winners are awarded two full scholarships each year to the Hospitality Department at the University of Technology with 20-odd awards presented to establishments that have excelled. Dubbed "The Caribbean's Oscar Night of Food", the event is held on the east lawns of Devon House in late May each year. Tickets run about US$100.