The event was held at the Scrub Islands Resort and Marina on Thursday.

Speaking to BVI News, Public Relations Manager at the BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) Keith Dawson said the event is more than sampling great food.

“The Gourmet Soiree is actually a fundraiser. We have given awards for the past three or so years to the students who have done the best for their respective public schools in tourism,” Dawson said.

He further said there were other benefits to the culinary event.

“It’s also building up the culinary repertoire of our youngsters and chefs to create interest in the culinary field. I think we have been successful in doing so because of the exposure and other opportunities that have been given to them that the BVITB has provided,” he said.

Dawson said he believes last night’s turnout was a testament to the growing awareness of the top culinary offerings of the territory.

The evening started with entertainment and cocktail at the resort’s reception area then moved to the north beach area for dessert and more enjoyment.

There was a mixture of international chefs and local chefs including a mixologist and those from the BVI National Culinary Team.

Other events

Meanwhile, Management Trainee currently in Public Relations at the BVITB Yohance Smith said the month of activities at Food Fete aims to promote the BVI as a culinary destination.

The five-year-old event continues with ‘Taste of Tortola’ which is scheduled to take place at the Queen Elizabeth Park in Road Town on Saturday, November 9.

This will then be followed by the Cooper Island Rum Festival on November 16, the Jost Pork & More Festival on Jost Van Dyke on November 17, and the Anegada Lobster Festival on November 30 and December 1.