NEW FEATURE ALERT

South Beach Food & Wine Festival takes place from February 19 through 

February 22. Tickets for the events are available at sobewff.org. To whet 

our appetite, we invited some chefs in Findler Charles, Alain Lemaire, Simeon Hall, and Patience Dean to hop aboard The Jitney and share some secrets from their kitchens.

When did you fall in love with cooking?

Alain Lemaire: It all happened at a very young age. What first started as a means to satisfy my desire for autonomy, quickly grew into a passion for hosting, feeding others, and nourishing both mind and body. Smiles, laughters, and full bellies give me joy.

What can we expect from you at South Beach Food and Wine Fest?

Alain Lemaire: For this year’s festival, you can expect me to bring a always bold flavors, authenticity, innovation, while respecting the traditions and the cultural essences of the Caribbean.

Where can people taste your cooking outside South Beach Food & Wine Fest?

Alain Lemaire: As a private chef and caterer, I can be booked for all occasions via www.cheflemaire.com or at hello@cheflemaire.com. I also host the Ou Manje Deja? Supper Club. The phrase “Ou Manje Deja?” is an endearing question which means “Did you eat yet?” We want people to experience light, elegant, and refined Caribbean cuisine without the worries of anything being too overwhelming or heavy.

What’s a simple thing people can do when cooking at home to make their meals more exciting?

Alain Lemaire: Use fresh ingredients as much as possible, it tastes better. That little extra step can go a long way. Also, never hesitate to experience new things, but most of all don’t hold back on the seasoning. That can make or break your dishes. Trust your palate, at the end of the day, you’re cooking for yourself and/or loved ones.

https://jitneybooks.com/meet-two-south-beach-food-wine-festival-chefs/