Supporting The Next Generation of Cayman Culinary Talent

The 2026 Young Chef Young Waiter Young Mixologist Regional Final was one of the most competitive in the competition's Cayman Islands history — and we couldn't be prouder of what we witnessed.

Finalists were judged on far more than technical skill. Creativity, sustainability, communication, adaptability and the ability to perform under real pressure all came into play, as competitors worked both individually and as teams to deliver a full guest experience: food, drink and front-of-house service, brought together for a live VIP reception and three-course lunch.

Our own Sean Collins, Justyna Hachulska and Angelique Collins were proud to sit on the judging panels, joining an international line-up of respected chefs, sommeliers and drinks experts from across the hospitality world.

Robert Walton MBE, Chairman of Young Chef Young Waiter Young Mixologist, said:

"Bradley, Gaby and Julius should be immensely proud of what they achieved. Each of them demonstrated talent, composure and a very clear understanding of what modern hospitality should look and feel like. The skill, personality and ambition we've witnessed in Grand Cayman shows just how exciting the future of the island's hospitality industry is."

Bradley McLaughlin of Anchor & Apron Private Catering took the Young Chef title with the competition's "Less is More" challenge, building a complete three-course menu from a limited seasonal larder with a strong focus on technique, creativity and reducing waste. He also created a sustainable snack from trimmings and offcuts, paired with a cocktail developed alongside his team's mixologist.

Gaby Christian, formerly of Bella Trattoria, was named Young Waiter 2026, impressing judges with the professionalism and attention to detail that define exceptional guest service — from preparing a full restaurant section to leading a live VIP service with confidence, warmth and precision.

And Julius Parsons of Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa was crowned Young Mixologist, shining across three demanding cocktail briefs: a signature vodka serve with an alcohol-free counterpart, a zero-waste collaboration with his team's chef, and a reimagined rum aperitivo built around bold, balanced flavour.

The Regional Final capped three days of celebration across Grand Cayman, opening with a launch event at ONE | GT // Byū in collaboration with Mise en place Events, and closing with the Winners' Dinner at the residence of Her Excellency the Governor, Jane Owen, where the Mise en Place team dazzled guests with thoughtfully prepared four course dinner.

Bradley, Gaby and Julius now head to the World Championship Finals as ambassadors for Cayman's hospitality industry — and we'll be cheering them on every step of the way.

This is what craft, care and community look like in action — and it's why we're proud to be part of Cayman's hospitality story.