Chef Nyesha Arrington Joins Distinguished Culinary Lineup for St. Kitts and Nevis Restaurant Week

St. Kitts & Nevis Restaurant Week, a culinary celebration of local flavors and international flair, is set to tantalize taste buds from July 17th to 27th. This highly anticipated event, part of the Summer Unscripted program, will showcase a diverse array of culinary talent, headlined by the return of acclaimed chef and television personality Nyesha Arrington and nationally-renowned chef Stephen Marsham. They will join forces with a cadre of talented Kittitian chefs to offer a vibrant and immersive culinary experience for locals and visitors alike. Their combined expertise promises to elevate the island’s gastronomic scene, demonstrating the rich tapestry of St. Kitts’ culinary heritage.

Chef Nyesha Arrington, a familiar face on the island having previously served as Executive Chef at Spice Mill, brings her innovative approach to global cuisine, honed through elite culinary training and multicultural influences. Her impressive resume boasts accolades such as Eater LA’s Chef of the Year and a spot on Zagat’s ‘30 Under 30’ list. Furthermore, her television appearances on shows like Bravo’s Top Chef, Food Network’s Tournament of Champions, and FOX’s Next Level Chef, have solidified her reputation as a culinary force. Her return to St. Kitts signifies a full-circle moment in her career, highlighting the island’s significant role in her culinary journey.

Joining Chef Nyesha is Chef Stephen Marsham, a native of St. Kitts who has honed his skills in renowned New York City establishments including Pastis, Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi, and Wayan. Chef Marsham’s culinary style blends classic French techniques with vibrant Caribbean flavors, showcasing the versatility and richness of his heritage. His participation in the South Beach Food and Wine Festival earlier this year, representing St. Kitts, further underscores his commitment to promoting the island’s culinary identity. Together, Chefs Nyesha and Stephen embody the spirit of St. Kitts & Nevis Restaurant Week, celebrating the island’s culinary evolution and its potential as a premier gastronomic destination.

This year’s Restaurant Week will feature a diverse program of events, including the popular Grill Fest on July 26th. This vibrant competition pits local grill masters against each other in a friendly battle showcasing their mastery of chicken, pork, fish, and lobster. The event will also include an amateur mixology competition, cultural performances, showcasing local artisans and their crafts, tastings of local rum and wine, and dedicated entertainment areas for children. The culmination of Restaurant Week will be Taste at Twilight on July 27th, an elevated and interactive dining experience featuring a collaborative three-course meal prepared by Chefs Nyesha, Stephen, and local Kittitian chefs. Guests will be treated to a cocktail reception, a guided farm tour, live music, and engaging interactions with the chefs, delving deeper into the stories, ingredients, and heritage behind each dish.

The spotlight ingredient for this year’s Restaurant Week is tamarind, a tangy and versatile fruit that will be incorporated into special menus at participating restaurants. From casual local eateries to upscale fine dining establishments, each menu will be a testament to St. Kitts’ rich agricultural and culinary traditions. The inclusion of tamarind not only highlights local produce but also adds a unique twist to traditional dishes, allowing chefs to showcase their creativity and innovation. The diverse range of participating restaurants ensures that there’s something to suit every palate and budget, making Restaurant Week a truly inclusive culinary celebration.

Beyond the signature events, Restaurant Week offers a full calendar of exciting activities, designed to cater to a wide range of interests. These include a St. Kitts Tasting Showcase offering samplings of local delicacies, an R&B Tamarind Brunch providing a relaxed and musically infused dining experience, a Karaoke night for those wanting to unleash their inner performer, A Tropical Twist Dinner highlighting innovative culinary creations, a Children’s Home Charity Dinner supporting a worthy cause, a romantic Date Night for couples seeking a special evening, a Cook, Sip, & Glamp experience combining outdoor adventure with culinary delights, and a Tamarind Flavors event focused on the versatility of the featured ingredient. This comprehensive program underscores the St. Kitts Tourism Authority’s commitment to creating a memorable and enriching experience for all who participate in Restaurant Week, further solidifying the island’s reputation as a vibrant cultural hub.