Masters of the Craft by Marriott International, a renowned culinary and beverage competition, has returned with impressive talent from all the hotels in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. The competition is designed to foster creativity and innovation, emphasizing exceptional chefs and bartenders in the culinary and beverage world within each of Marriott’s companies.
The competition is based on creating a dish or beverage in a short time with ingredients chosen by a panel, including a mystery ingredient, with technique, flavor, and creativity being important points for the judges.
This competition not only showcases the talent in our hotels and restaurants but also inspires the younger generation in the culinary and beverage world to grow in their professional careers.
The Masters of the Craft competition undoubtedly brings exceptional talent to Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort in both culinary and bartender categories, as explained by Christophe Tans, Director of Food & Beverage.
The judges, including Heidi Michiels from L’Avenue, Andres Davila, Complex Executive Chef at Aruba Marriott, and Mitchell Pereira, Executive Chef & owner of La Mer Restaurant, were amazed by the high-caliber results of each participant.
The winner of the culinary category was Faustin Penia. With 4 years of experience, including 2 years at Wind Creek Aruba, Faustin demonstrated talent and creativity in record time, creating a positive impact and spectacular presentation.
The winner of the pastry category was Kenrick Dirksz. With 7 years of experience in the pastry world, Kenrick showcased his technique and excelled in the pastry competition with his creation of a soursop cheesecake, which was the surprise ingredient for this category.
The winner of the beverage category was Merly Cardenas. With 4 years of experience as a bartender and just 1 year as head bartender at BLUE Bar, Merly captivated the judges with her refreshing drink featuring dragon fruit as the surprise ingredient. Merly enjoys her work and is a great example of Wind Creek’s values of being “the best” and spending enjoyable moments with her guests at her job.
The competition followed strict rules in both beverage and culinary categories, allowing admiration for the talent, passion, creativity, and innovation in each participant’s presentation. Congratulations to all participants and winners!
