Antigua and Barbuda’s food and entertainment took center stage at the first “About Great Taste Show” in Hartford Connecticut, which was held September 25 through September 27, 2009. On Saturday, Antigua and Barbuda received significant television exposure on FOX 61, as the Culinary EXPO was broadcast live from the Connecticut Convention Center.

Director of Tourism in the US, Derede Samuel Whitlock, in a live interview on FOX 61, described the destination as one that offers “the best in Caribbean cuisine along some of the most beautiful beaches where you will enjoy the best in entertainment and adventure to be found anywhere.” The destination was also featured in a 30-second television ad that highlighted some of the major attractions that Antigua and Barbuda has to offer. Antigua and Barbuda partnered with GoGo Tours to promote special travel packages and specials. The destination also set up its own culinary lounge featuring Chef Murphy who served “Sunday morning breakfast” a display for attendees including chefs, connoisseurs, food writers and critics. Scores of “foodies” who stopped by to enjoy samplings of Murphy’s culinary delights that utilized Susie’s Hot Sauce and English Harbor Rum, as well as local herbs and produce.

Among the distinguished guests visiting the Antigua and Barbuda booth were celebrity chefs Kevin Cottle and Van Hurd from the Food Network’s Hell’s Kitchen. Tourism officials extended an invitation to these chefs to be a part of the upcoming Food and Rhythms Experience (FARE) Tour. This event will give food and entertainment journalists from the US on a dining tour of the destination’s finest restaurants and will culminate with the 2nd Annual Food and Drink Industry Party on December 5, 2009.