On what can only be described as an absolute scorcher, the highly anticipated Caribbean Food Festival kicked off in 27 degrees centigrade heat. Perfect weather for the presentation of an array of Caribbean food stalls boasting variety, taste and authenticity against the backdrop of the historic Windrush Square and iconic Black Cultural Archives.
Grace Foods UK marketing manager, Nyree Chambers being intereviewed by Black Visions TV. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Today marked the first of two days of the Caribbean Food Festival which ended a week of activities organised by Grace Foods UK, from August 22 culminating on Bank Holiday Monday 29th August; with the festival coming to a close tomorrow Saturday 27th August.
The Grace Foods UK stall. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
The searing heat contributed splendidly to the simulation of a typical Caribbean street party as many strolled around the venue armed with Grace Foods branded cold drinks including Mighty Malt, Aloe, Coconut Water and more while greeting strangers eager to browse the many stalls and sample the food and drinks.
Vendor preparing a traditional Guyanese roti. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Celebrity chef Hasan Defour was the highlight for today as he delivered a few captivating demonstrations including his Trinbagonian inspired salt fish fritters, ideal for a light evening snack. Chef Hasan had the crowd almost eating out of his hand as he eloquently described the ingredients and painstakingly guided his viewers through each step in the preparation of his homeland delicacy.
Contented folks absorbing the sun while enjoying cool drinks. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
What was truly remarkable was the fact that those who were not aware of the live demonstrations were almost simultaneously struck by the strong aroma of an unmistakable salt fish dish that somehow lured them to his booth as if by hypnotism. Once there no one left without having a taste of the mysterious dish.
Folks taking advantage of the water fountain to keep cool. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Marketing Manager, Nyree Chambers was delighted with the turnout and looks forward to even more visitors tomorrow as most people will be off work and able to bring along the kids for a fantastic day out in a controlled and fun-filled environment.
Chef Hasan DeFour doing his thing. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Visitors included Paul Rose an event promoter from Birmingham and Primrose Granville, BBC radio broadcast journalist from Bristol both of whom confessed to having had an incredible time and may return tomorrow. All are invited to come down tomorrow Saturday 27th August for what promises to be an extraordinary experience for the entire family. See you there!
One serving of salt fish fritters to go. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
Primrose Granville, BBC radio broadcast journalist with one of the few Black EMTs with NHS. Photo courtesy CaribDirect
