The USVI Tourism Department showcased the territory’s culinary excellence at the 2026 Food & Wine Classic in Aspen, held Friday through Sunday.
As a co-title sponsor and the event’s only Caribbean destination partner, the V.I. spotlighted its culinary heritage “and rising profile as a premier food and travel destination, introducing thousands of attendees to the vibrant flavors, culture, and hospitality of the islands,” according to a press release the Tourism Department issued Thursday.
Held annually in Aspen, Colorado, the Food & Wine Classic is one of the nation’s premier culinary festivals, bringing together world-renowned chefs, beverage experts, restauranteurs, media, and passionate food lovers for a weekend of tastings, demonstrations, and immersive culinary experiences.
Representing the territory were chefs Digby Stridiron of St. Croix and Kerish Robles of St. Thomas, who tantilized festivalgoers with a diverse menu inspired by the USVI’s rich cultural influences and locally rooted flavors, the release stated.
Throughout the three-day event, attendees enjoyed standout dishes including Scallop and Lobster Escabeche, Oxtail and Johnny Cakes, Virgin Islands Potato Stuffing and Pulled Oxtail, Fish and Fungi Canapés, Lentil Stew and Fried Cauliflower, Caviar Service, and Cruzan Rum Cake with Mango Glaze.
“The response was extraordinary, with the U.S. Virgin Islands activation drawing some of the longest lines throughout the festival. Guests repeatedly returned for additional tastings, while many cited the territory’s offerings among the most memorable culinary experiences of the weekend,” the release stated.
“To remain competitive in the marketplace, the Department of Tourism continues to cultivate strategic partnerships with organizations such as Food and Wine,” said Alani Henneman, assistant Tourism commissioner. “These collaborations not only position the U.S. Virgin Islands as a premier travel destination but also provide valuable opportunities to showcase and celebrate the exceptional culinary talent found throughout the territory.”
Beyond generating excitement among attendees, the partnership provided a platform to introduce travelers, media, and industry influencers to the authentic flavors, cultural heritage, and culinary traditions that define the U.S. Virgin Islands, the release stated.
As the event’s only Caribbean destination partner, the territory garnered significant attention throughout the weekend, further elevating its profile among key travel and lifestyle audiences and reinforcing its reputation as a premier destination for culinary and cultural experiences.
“Through its presence at events like Food and Wine, the Department of Tourism continues to leverage strategic partnerships and high-profile events to elevate the awareness of the U.S. Virgin Islands, drive visitation, and spotlight the chefs, artisans, and culinary innovators whose talents help shape the territory’s distinctive identity,” the release concluded.
