Willemstad, November 17, 2025 – The Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association is proud to announce that Curaçao will participate in the prestigious Taste of the Caribbean 2025 culinary competition taking place in Barbados. After several years of interruption during the COVID period, the event began its return last year and has once again brought together the best culinary talents of the region.
This year, Curaçao is represented by the Curaçao HEAT Team, led by Team Captain and Senior Chef Justin Niessen, Chef Manager of Mondi. The team further includes Junior Chef Daniel Hendrikus Vink, Pâtisserie Chef Cristian Sille, and Bartender Frantjesko Eleonora, supported by Team Coordinator Gideon Maduro, who has accompanied the Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association team on various previous occasions. All of these talented individuals embody the passion, creativity, and culinary identity of our island.
The Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association is extremely proud of their participation. Their dedication and skill continue to highlight one of Curaçao’s greatest strengths. Our culinary world is becoming an important differentiator for tourism and hospitality, and it plays a key role in showcasing our culture, heritage, and local talent.
In addition, the Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association has multiple events lined up for 2026, creating new opportunities for restaurant and hotel chefs to represent Curaçao internationally through the work of the Culinary Task Force.
This participation is made possible through the collaboration and support of the Curaçao Tourist Board and the Ministry of Economic Development. Working together allows us to elevate Curaçao’s presence on the regional stage and to continue strengthening one of the most dynamic areas of our hospitality sector.
As the Curaçao HEAT Team steps onto the international stage, we invite everyone on the island to join us in supporting them. Their presence reflects the growth, creativity, and ambition of Curaçao’s culinary community.
Let us continue riding this Blue Wave forward in every area.
Curaçao, we are proud of you.
