Acclaimed US Chef Tristen Epps-Long Reconnects with Trinidadian Roots Through HADCO Experiences Culinary Collaboration
HADCO Experiences, a leader in eco-luxury hospitality in Trinidad & Tobago, has partnered with internationally acclaimed Top Chef winner Chef Tristen Epps-Long for a unique culinary collaboration that celebrates homecoming, identity and the growing global influence of Caribbean cuisine.
The collaboration brings Chef Epps-Long, who is of Trinidadian heritage, back to the island in a personal journey of reconnection and exploration. Over the course of a curated, multi-day programme, he has worked alongside the HADCO Experiences culinary team, led by Culinary Manager Jacqueline Lobin, to explore local ingredients, engage with community and mentor emerging culinary students. The experience culminated in a hosted luncheon event at Asa Wright Nature Centre, where the thoughtfully crafted menu reflected both local flavours and Chef Epps-Long’s globally informed perspective.
Chef Epps-Long, winner of Top Chef Season 22 and James Beard Foundation-recognised chef, is known for his ability to translate cultural identity into modern cuisine. His work often bridges continents, blending technique with diaspora storytelling to create dishes that resonate on both a personal and universal level.
While the collaboration provided an opportunity for knowledge-sharing with local talent, it also offered Chef Epps-Long the chance to rediscover Trinidad while gathering inspiration, deepening his connection to his heritage, and capturing that journey to share with a wider audience through his platforms.
The collaboration also reflects a broader ambition from HADCO Experiences to reposition Trinidad & Tobago as a premium, experience-driven destination where culture, sustainability and immersive travel intersect. By partnering with globally recognised culinary talent, HADCO Experiences continues to elevate awareness of Trinidad & Tobago, showcasing it as a vibrant, culturally rich destination worth exploring.
“Food has always been one of the most powerful ways to understand where we come from and, essentially, who we are,” said Chef Epps-Long. “Exploring Trinidad in partnership with HADCO Experiences and reconnecting with that part of my identity has been incredibly meaningful. Supporting emerging culinary talent is also deeply important to me in order to create space for representation and visibility. Their creativity and passion have been inspiring and the world is ready to experience their food.”
“We’re excited to welcome Tristen to Trinidad & Tobago and collaborate with a chef of his calibre,” said John Hadad, Group co-Chief Executive Officer of HADCO Experiences. “It has been eye opening to experience the island through his perspective, as we’ve shared parts of Trinidad he hasn’t yet seen or tasted, while connecting with voices across our growing culinary community. This kind of collaboration reflects our broader vision at HADCO Experiences: to authentically and responsibly share Trinidad & Tobago on the global stage highlighting its culture, creativity and natural beauty.”
Throughout the week, the programme has unfolded as an immersive exploration of Trinidad & Tobago’s landscape, culture and culinary identity. The visit included guided nature walks at Asa Wright Nature Centre and a journey along the north coast to Mt Plaisir Estate Hotel in Grande Riviere – where Chef Epps-Long experienced this year’s record leatherback turtle nesting season. The itinerary also included a visit to a local market and hands-on collaboration in the kitchen with HADCO Experience’s culinary team, alongside emerging culinary students for a meaningful exchange of knowledge, technique and inspiration.
This initiative underscores the growing importance of food tourism, with travellers increasingly seeking authentic, story-led experiences that connect them to the places they visit. According to the World Food Travel Association, over 80% of leisure travellers can be considered “food travellers,” actively choosing destinations based on culinary experiences. As global travel shifts toward deeper, more meaningful engagement, food has become a powerful lens through which culture is explored and understood, positioning Trinidad & Tobago as a destination where heritage, identity and storytelling are experienced through every meal.