Antigua and Barbuda Is Once Again Among the Caribbean’s Top Emerging Food Destinations

Antigua and Barbuda is once again in the spotlight for its growing food scene, earning a nomination for Caribbean’s Best Emerging Culinary City Destination 2026 in the World Culinary Awards.

The nomination follows the destination’s victory in the same category in 2025, underscoring the growing profile of Antigua and Barbuda as one of the Caribbean’s leading culinary tourism destinations.

The category recognizes destinations that are building a strong reputation for food tourism through authentic local cuisine, culinary innovation and visitor experiences centered on dining and culture. It also highlights destinations using gastronomy as a key driver of tourism growth.

The latest nomination comes as Antigua and Barbuda continues to expand its culinary tourism offerings, led by initiatives such as Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month, which showcases local chefs, restaurants, producers and traditional flavors through a series of island-wide events each year.

“As Antigua and Barbuda continues to elevate its culinary tourism product, this nomination reinforces Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a must-visit destination for food lovers worldwide,” said Shermain Jeremey, Lead for Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month within the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

Jeremey said a second consecutive win would further strengthen the destination’s culinary reputation.

“To win this award for a second year would signal that the destination is not only offering high-quality cuisine but is also developing a strong culinary identity rooted in local culture, traditions, and creativity,” she said.

Over the last several years, Antigua and Barbuda has placed increasing emphasis on culinary tourism as part of its broader visitor experience, with everything from fine dining restaurants and beachfront seafood shacks to local food festivals and chef collaborations helping broaden the destination’s appeal.

Tourism officials are encouraging residents and visitors to cast their votes for Antigua and Barbuda in the World Culinary Awards competition.

Voting opened on June 25 and will continue through Aug. 14, with winners to be announced later this year.

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