Culinary Themes for 2025
January
Sustainable, Innovative, and Experiential: The Future of Caribbean Hospitality
Our vision for the new year focuses on a harmonious blend of refined simplicity, cultural depth, sustainability, and personalized experiences that connect guests intimately with the land, sea, and traditions of St. Lucia. The next few years will see a transformative approach, where culinary arts, beverages, service, and hospitality go beyond traditional luxury to create lasting, meaningful, and sensory-rich memories for every guest.
Join Chef Ruban for his Apsara feasts, and Chef Frank in the enchanting Treehouse restaurant for a gastronomic journey or indulge in a romantic beachfront dining experience under the starlit Caribbean sky. Explore guilt-free pleasures in a Healthy Dessert Class led by our renowned Pastry Chef Sherma.
Our “Banana Bonanza” this month features the beloved bananas of St. Lucia, showcasing their versatility in dishes like delectable banana bread, refreshing banana daiquiri cocktails, and decadent desserts. These creations celebrate sustainable practices and pay tribute to the island’s rich Creole heritage.
Our Chefs curate experiences that nurture the soul and the planet. Start 2025 with a mindful and healthful celebration, where gastronomy, sustainability, and the beauty of St. Lucia enrich your senses and spirit. Embrace a world where every experience is designed to nourish and inspire.
February
Savory Culinary Excellence
Celebrate St. Lucia’s 47th Independence Anniversary with the Annou We-y culinary celebration, blending vibrant flavors, local ingredients, and cultural pride.
Pineapple Paradise: Savor the Caribbean’s iconic pineapple in dishes, desserts, and cocktails. From pineapple-roasted Red Snapper to refreshing Pineapple Rum Punch, enjoy the best of St. Lucia’s pineapple harvest with live music and exotic cocktails.
Cacao Ceremony: Join our traditional Cacao Ceremony, known for its heart-opening and grounding properties. This communal experience uplifts the spirit and offers personal reflection.
Valentine’s Night “Under the Stars”: Create unforgettable Valentine’s memories with a romantic Caribbean beach dinner at the water’s edge on Anse Chastanet beach or your own private beach experience at Anse Mamin we will help pair select Rose champagnes or specially curated Rose wines.
Gourmet Food & Wine Delights: Chef Frank presents a series of gourmet dinners. Celebrate the end of Lobster Season with Chef Ruban’s Caribbean Beach Tandoori Lobster dinner. We delve to an even deeper connection between farm, sea, and bar. The creation of Emerald Estate-driven microbrews, locally sourced rum experiences, and wellness elixirs will make the beverage program more diverse, sustainable, and engaging for guests.
National Colours Day: Every Sunday, celebrate National Colours Day with a Caribbean Rum Mixology workshop at the beach, dressed in the island’s colors.
Independence Day: On February 22nd, enjoy special dinners at Balawoo, Emerald, and Apsara.
Embark on a culinary journey celebrating the flavors and spirit of St. Lucia’s independence.
March
Culinary Paradise Beckons
We’ve crafted an unparalleled culinary experience for those who appreciate the finest cuisine in the heart of paradise.
Cooking in Paradise: Join our exclusive event, “Cooking in Paradise,” curated by James Beard Award winner Chef Allen Susser. With breathtaking views of the Piton Mountains, savor “Avocado Awe,” a celebration of creamy, nutritious avocados through gourmet dishes, appetizers, and desserts. Each creation supports sustainable practices and honors the island’s culinary heritage.
Enjoy a range of curated experiences, including Emerald Estate Farm to Fork lunches to tasting menus. Don’t miss the Petit Rum Shack Beach Burger & Beer Bash, an elevated beachside dining experience. Discover the magic of chocolate with our bean-to-bar tour and sensory tastings. Sundays feature rum mixology and our famous Coco-Doux delight.
The Biggest Hour on Earth: March 22nd – Earth Hour: Join us with a tribute dinner as we observe Earth Hour by turning off non-essential lights from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m., standing with communities worldwide in a commitment to environmental stewardship.
Relish these March delights, where culinary arts and natural wonders harmoniously converge in paradise.
April
Sustainable Tropical Tribute to Earth
Experience the liberating charm of Caribbean Spring showcasing the splendor of our Emerald Estate Farm and the richness of seasonal, organic ingredients.
Farm to Fork Ital Experience: Celebrate Earth Day with our Farm to Fork Ital experience. Participate in special “live and learn” sessions on our farm, where you can engage directly with our seasoned chefs and dedicated farmers. Learn to craft delectable dishes from freshly harvested organic ingredients, embodying a sustainable and harmonious lifestyle.
Papaya Panache: Delight in “Papaya Panache,” a celebration of this tropical fruit. Enjoy a range of culinary creations that showcase our commitment to local, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients. Experience Chef Ruban’s Live Fire Beach Dinner, and Chef Frank’s gourmet food and wine pairings. Relax with our Caribbean Papaya Smash.
Chef in Residence: We welcome Chef Adrianne Calvo as our Chef in Residence, engaging guests with tropical-inspired meals and interactive classes at our Emerald Estate Farm. Known for her Chef Adrianne’s Vineyard Restaurant & Bar in Miami shares her passion for regional Caribbean cuisines, Chef Adrianne brings culinary excellence to every dish, showcased during our Lunch & Learn sessions and creative dinners.
Join us for a month of culinary exploration that honors the earth and its bounty.
May
Sizzling Jazz, Food & Arts Festival
Experience the Caribbean’s vibrant mosaic of cultures and flavors during our Jazz, Food & Arts Festival in May. We are not only redefining luxury but also creating meaningful, sustainable experiences that allow guests to engage with the land, culture, and traditions of St. Lucia.
Petit Piton Lounge Vibes: Discover the local rhythm with modern Caribbean rum cocktails like a Rum Babalu or Rum with a View in the Petit Piton Lounge, embodying the heart of St. Lucian culture.
Tuesday Jump-Up: Revel in the magnetic beats of a live steel band during our Tuesday night Jump-Up party. Enjoy live cooking stations, culinary flambe desserts, and an array of Creole delights.
Plantain Pleasure & Palette to Palate: Elevate your culinary experience with “Plantain Pleasure,” showcasing savory to sweet dishes made from local, sustainable ingredients. Calypso Jazz & Cooking: Join Chef Frank and Pastry Chef Sherma for a Calypso Jazz Music & Cooking class, where they blend music and culinary skills in harmony.
June
Indulge in Mango Madness at the 18th Annual Mango Madness Festival
Join us for our Mango Madness Festival, where the essence of mangos embodies tropical delights and culinary creativity. Celebrate with James Beard Award-winning Chef Allen Susser at our Mad, Mad Mango Festival. Enjoy his signature 25# Mango Mojitos.
Mango Mystique: Explore the culinary charm of mangos in “Mango Mystique.” Our gourmet creations range from savory delights to sweet treats and refreshing cocktails, celebrating the vibrant flavors of local, sustainable ingredients.
The Versatile Mango: Experience the diverse flavors of mangoes—from juicy bites to lush tartness. For relaxation, enjoy a mango-infused massage under a century-old Mango tree.
Mango Bazaar: Discover over 30 St Lucian mango varieties on a culinary treasure hunt. Enjoy Mango Mornings with Chef Frank or participate in Chef Ruban’s West Indian Mango Chutney workshop on the beach. Engage in “Mangos LIVE” cooking sessions throughout the month.
Fisherman’s Feast: Conclude June with St Lucia’s traditional “Fete Peche”, featuring our Chefs creating a visually stunning and flavorful experience that tells the story of the island’s bounty. We are using innovative ways to present sustainable seafood in a tasting format, focusing on freshness, creativity, and presentation.
Embrace the spirit of summer at this tropical gastronomic extravaganza, where mangoes take center stage.
July
Spices of the Caribbean Extravaganza
July in the Caribbean isn’t just about sultry weather; it’s a celebration of diverse flavors and cultural fusions. St. Lucia, a culinary mosaic, thrives on exotic spices that create a symphony of tastes, reflecting the island’s rich cultural tapestry.
Passion Fruit Fiesta: Dive into the tangy, sweet world of passion fruits at our “Passion Fruit Fiesta.” Each dish and craft cocktail captures the essence of St. Lucia’s culinary heritage, making every sip and bite a tropical delight.
Spices of the Caribbean: Explore the island’s unique blend of herbs, spices, and flavors. Our culinary team invites you to unlock the secrets of captivating dishes that ignite the senses and enhance your culinary imagination.
St. Lucia Carnival – July 17-23: Experience the vibrant St. Lucia Carnival, a colorful extravaganza of costume parties, lively activities, and a pulsating finale with a Road March featuring the island’s best bands. It’s the summer’s most anticipated event.
Culinary Adventures: Join us for spice workshops, Tandoori cooking classes, and the Apsara Curry and Pale Ale (IPA) Feast. Indulge in our Exotic Spice of the Caribbean Gourmet Dinner in the Old Tree House.
Embrace the sultry flavors of the Caribbean in a month filled with spice, culture, and culinary exploration.
August
Caribbean Fisherman’s Festival: A Culinary Voyage
Celebrate the prime season of Caribbean Lobster in St. Lucia! Our Menu highlights the finest flavors of this cherished crustacean. Experience a journey of tropical delights and the freshest Caribbean lobster.
In the Caribbean, the sea is the heart of our culinary heritage, providing a bountiful array of fish, fruits, and vegetables that define our vibrant and diverse culinary tapestry. Join Chef Ruban for a West Indian seafood tandoori cooking class and dive deep into the flavors that make Caribbean cooking a harmonious blend of colors, textures, and tastes.
Guava Gala: Immerse yourself in the “Guava Gala,” celebrating the sweet and tangy guava with dishes like Guava Glazed Wahoo and cocktails such as a Guava Gimlet that showcase this tropical fruit’s rich potential.
Tropical Gourmet Monday Wine Dinner: Chef Frank hosts this special 5-course wine dinner at Balawoo, featuring sustainable local seafood paired with exotic fruits like plantains, carambola, and mango.
Lionfish Beach Dinner: Every Friday night, enjoy a Lionfish feast on the beach, this approach not only showcases just how delicious this invasive fish can be, emphasizing sustainability and zero waste, but also allows guests to experience the diverse flavors and textures that come from different cooking methods.
Join us this August for the Caribbean Fisherman’s Festival, a celebration of the ocean’s bounty, sustainability, and St. Lucia’s rich culinary heritage. Our presentations not only make the seafood visually stunning but also add an interactive, sensory element to the experience, making the meal more meaningful and memorable for guests.
September
Roots, Rum & Carnival: A Culinary Adventure
September at Anse Chastanet is a celebration of our St. Lucian heritage, inspired by the gentle Caribbean Sea breezes. Embrace our “Roots” with culinary events that pay homage to our vibrant traditions and sustainable practices.
Coconut Carnival: Dive into the “Coconut Carnival,” where every dish and drink crafted from coconuts showcases their versatility using local, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a rum punch cocktail and feel transported to the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean.
Roots & Rum Gourmet Mondays: To create a fresh, light, and healthy approach while keeping the cuisine of Anse Chastanet unique, we explore the modernization of traditional St. Lucian techniques with a contemporary twist. Our four-course gourmet dinners are meticulously paired with select Caribbean rums, offering a taste of paradise every Monday evening.
Visiting Guest – Rum Expert Robert A. Burr: This month, we welcome renowned rum enthusiast Robert A. Burr, who will guide you through the rich history and diverse flavors of Caribbean rums, providing opportunities to taste and learn about the finest rums from across the region.
Daily Rum Tastings: Explore the nuances of rums from St. Lucia, French Caribbean rhums, Spanish Caribbean rums, and British Caribbean rums through expertly guided tastings that delve into their unique styles and historical significance.
Rum and Dark Chocolate Pairing: Experience the exquisite pairing of aged rums with intense-flavored dark chocolates, a match that enhances the rich profiles of both.
Join us this September for a culinary journey that celebrates the roots, culture, and diverse world of rum at Anse Chastanet.
October
Creole Heritage & Chocolate Month Celebration
This October, celebrate St. Lucia’s vibrant culture and heritage at Anse Chastanet. We proudly showcase local art, reflecting the island’s colorful history through Madras team colors, artistic room displays, and menu graphics. Our Art Gallery features unique pieces by St. Lucian artists, each telling a tale of our diverse heritage.
Cacao & Creole Fusion: Dive into the intertwined histories of Creole and cacao. Experience our handcrafted Emerald Estate Organic Chocolate and join the serene traditional St. Lucian Cacao Ceremony, highlighting our bean-to-bar expertise.
Creole Culinary Delights: Our chefs bring Creole customs to life through cuisine. Celebrate Jounen Kweyol with traditional Creole food, music, and traditions. Explore the versatility of cassava at our “Cassava Carnival,” promoting local, sustainable ingredients.
Creole Gourmet Wine Dinner: Savor a five-course Creole menu at our Gourmet Wine Dinner, featuring fresh ingredients from our Organic Emerald Farm, curated by Chef Frankie.
St. Lucian Art Inspirations: Participate in art classes led by local artist Jaja Misaki Simeon, creating colorful still lives or tropical landscapes.
Creole Jump-Up Party: Start the evening with complimentary cocktails at Apsara, followed by a Creole Caribbean buffet, showcasing a symphony of flavors by Chef Ruban.
Join us for a month of cultural and gastronomic festivities, celebrating the heart of St. Lucia’s heritage and flavors
November
Caribe Food & Wine Festival
Immerse yourself in the Caribe Food & Wine Festival, set against the majestic Piton Mountains of St. Lucia. Celebrate the rich flavors of Caribbean cuisine with our exclusive Caribbean Lobster & Champagne Tasting Menu. This festival honors the unique blend of foods and cooking styles that define St. Lucian cuisine, dedicated to our local fishermen and farmers.
Lime Luminary: Revel in our zesty and refreshing “Lime Luminary” menu, showcasing the tangy charm of limes in gourmet dishes and drinks. This premier culinary event features craft cocktails, wine and champagne tastings, cooking classes, farm tours, and decadent chocolate experiences.
At Anse Mamin, enjoy freshly caught grilled Caribbean lobster rolls paired with Green Papaya Salad and icy Prosecco cocktails. Learn to roast with exotic spices in our West Indian Tandoori lobster class.
Chef in Residence: We proudly present our Chef in Residence this month, Chef Jeremy Ford with the Michelin-star Stubborn Seed Restaurants in Miami and Las Vegas. Engaging with guests through events and meals, Chef Jeremy will craft several unique signature seasonal farm-to-table menus, showcasing his culinary artistry with local flavors. An interactive Lunch & Learn cooking class at our organic Emerald Estate Farm will provide guests a chance to learn and savor the essence of the chefs’ talent. Chef Jeremy Ford brings his culinary finesse to enrich this exclusive experience.
Celebrate Thanksgiving in paradise: Join us for an exclusive Thanksgiving Beach Party where tropical flavors meet holiday tradition. Savor a festive menu featuring Island-Style Roast Turkey with guava glaze, Jerk Lobster Tails, Coconut-Crusted Mahi-Mahi, and sides like Creole Cornbread Stuffing and Sweet Potato & Plantain Gratin. Sip on signature cocktails while enjoying the sunset on the beach.
Experience a month of gastronomic delights, where the spirit of the Caribbean enhances every dish and drink.
December
Celebrate the Flavors of the Holiday Spirit
Experience the festive blend of Caribbean flavors and rhythms that define the holiday spirit in St. Lucia. Celebrate National Day and the Festival of Lights, illuminating the island with joy and festivity.
The Feast of Saint Luce: On the Winter Solstice, join us on our Celestial Terrace to celebrate light overcoming darkness. Enjoy a celestial view of the universe and shooting stars while sipping after-dinner cocktails during this magical night.
Ginger Glory: Dive into the world of ginger with our “Ginger Glory” celebration, highlighting the zesty and aromatic qualities of ginger through festive dishes that reflect St. Lucia’s rich culinary heritage.
Festive Feasts: Chef Frank adds a “Caribbean Twist” to Christmas dinner with a tasting menu, featuring his award-winning Seafood Chowder, a festive farm salad, and a Pistachio Crusted Lamb Rack. End with the cherished “Black Rum Cake” with macerated fruits and ice cream.
Boxing Day: Experience a Lionfish Dinner on Anse Mamin beach, contributing to environmental efforts while enjoying a five-course meal.
New Year’s Eve: Welcome the new year with a Grand Caribbean Buffet, and live entertainment, capped by fireworks on the beach.
Join us in December for a celebration of holiday traditions and culinary delights.