Antigua and Barbuda offers Caribbean flavor and star power at the 25th anniversary of Taste of Tennis in New York
The twin-island nation celebrated its culinary heritage and growing position as a luxury and racquet sports destination with appearances by chefs, tennis stars and entertainment figures
New York, NY – August 26, 2025 – Antigua and Barbuda took center stage at the 25th anniversary of Taste of Tennis, held on August 21 at Aqua New York in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. The destination captivated attendees with island flavors, English Harbour rum tastings, and an exclusive raffle for the award-winning Carlisle Bay Resort.
The event brought together a stellar lineup of tennis figures such as Genie Bouchard, Sloane Stephens, Vicky Mboko, Elena Rybakina, Chris Eubanks, Jordan Thompson, Jelena Ostapenko, and Nishesh Basavareddy, among others, who participated in the official opening of the US Open. Antigua and Barbuda's stand became one of the main attractions, also attracting personalities such as renowned film and television actor Leon Robinson.
Chef Claude Lewis, Chopped champion and son of West Indian parents, represented Antigua and Barbuda with a menu that combined tradition and modernity. Guests sampled dishes such as jerk chicken skewers with plantain waffles, panko-crusted mushroom bites with Scotch bonnet rémoulade sauce, spiced rum cake squares, and traditional goat stew served in a "goat water" format, accompanied by roti crumble. All this was complemented by premium tastings of English Harbour Rum, a symbol of the island's identity.
Dean Fenton, U.S. Director of Tourism for the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, said, “Taste of Tennis was an incredible opportunity to showcase the soul of Antigua and Barbuda: our bold flavors, rich culture, and luxury travel experiences. From Chef Claude’s inspiring dishes and English Harbour rum tastings to our gift of Carlisle Bay, guests enjoyed an authentic taste of paradise—just a taste of what’s in store during Antigua and Barbuda Culinary Month next May . ”
As part of its sponsorship, the destination featured Carlisle Bay Antigua, a luxury beachfront resort with world-class tennis courts, where one attendee won an exclusive stay. This recognition reinforces Antigua and Barbuda's position as a preferred destination for wellness tourism and racquet sports, with resorts such as Curtain Bluff, Blue Waters, Jumby Bay, and St. James's Club offering specialized clinics, tournaments, and retreats.
With its presence at Taste of Tennis 2025, Antigua and Barbuda solidified its international presence as a destination that combines luxury hospitality, world-class cuisine, 365 beaches, and unique sports experiences, attracting both leisure travelers and fans of tennis and the Caribbean lifestyle.