Rise and Rum was so good, you had no choice but to “lick yuh mouth”. People aren’t just discussing the delicious food and drinks, but also the great vibes, the infectious energy, and the memories made at Copacabana Beach Club in Bridgetown early Saturday morning.
These are the kinds of moments that will keep people chatting for years to come. As the saying goes, “A eye full ’en a belly full,” and this event proved it.
Scrolling through reels on social media might give you a taste, but almost nothing compares to stepping into the event and being surrounded by a dazzling sea of yellow outfits that lit up the venue and set the tone for the remainder of the Barbados Food and Rum Festival.
At the heart of the event was the food. There were over 20 stations that surrounded the venue, filled with plenty of familiar Bajan favourites, some in their classic presentation, while others were elevated with creative twists.
At Carmeta’s Food Station, herb-infused lamb ham, rum-infused pulled pork, and sweet potato porridge delighted palates. Chef Aiko Rudder-Jones took patrons to ‘Coney Island’ and served soursop waffles with fried chicken, topped with soursop honey butter and a mango scotch bonnet glaze.
Chef Marvin Applewhaite offered spotted spiny lobster croquettes and Bajan fish cakes and bakes. Chef Nakita Goddard wowed with her Rum Shop smashed beef patty with bacon and onion jam on a coffee brioche, finished with smoked cheese fondue and tamarind BBQ sauce. Chef John Hazzard’s pork belly bao buns and jerk pork tacos competed for crowd favourites, while Chef Tremaine Reece’s ‘Uh Bajan Georgie Bundle’ crispy rabbit wontons on local tomato chutney, left a lasting impression.
Desserts
Chef Kiara Riley’s playful desserts drew inspiration from familiar Bajan sayings. With mini nut cakes, aromatic sweet bread crumble with guava lemongrass, and mini turnovers and rock cakes, she brought the nostalgia, while Chef Adam Waithe provided a Bajan Quick Breakfast featuring Bread & One with Cheese; Bajan fish cakes served with breadfruit, cheese, sweet potato salt bread, and a scotch bonnet tomato-molasses ketchup.
Mixologists including Ayesha Reece, Shane McClean, Zaria Nurse, Dameaian Williams, Ashley Morgan, Andrew Williams, Ashley Quintyne, Rohan Broomes, and Kyle Sandiford were also on hand, serving up delectable cocktails. Beyond these highlights, there were countless more mouth-watering culinary options. The entertainment was the icing on the cake.
From the time patrons arrived after 3 a.m., they were greeted by dancers who welcomed them with high energy. After arriving, patrons picked up their party favours which included branded fans, wipes, and cups. Guests quickly flocked to the step-and-repeat for photos and snapped videos for their social media.
Hosted by Jamarr The Star, the event pulsated with beats thanks to deejays Vibe Nation, Legacy Team, Roc Fresh Entertainment, Surf Rat & Menace, and Surfrat, who kept the pace lively throughout.
The artistes who performed live took the event to new heights. Backed by a live band, legends and rising stars alike graced the stage: The Most Honourable Anthony Mighty Gabby Carter, who performed Bridgetown (the theme of the event), Buggy Nhakente, Rupee, Rhesa Garnes, Shanta Prince, Sugarhe, Shaquille GFG, Walkes, Lead Pipe & Saddis, and Mikey Mercer all delivering unforgettable performances.
Special kudos to Walkes, because even though he had to perform with a cast and crutch, he still captivated the crowd. The riddim section moving through the crowd created waves of excitement, while stilt walkers in broad-brimmed hats with golden shimmery tassels and shaggy bears added an extra flair to the event.
Guests also enjoyed massages, and despite the heat, ample coverings and fans kept everyone cool and comfortable. The sno cone vendor was a welcomed addition, as he helped everyone stay cool. (TG)