The Heat Was On At Pasta Supreme
Published:Monday | June 27, 2016 | 12:00 AM
As promised, 10 caterers showed their chops at the first premium all-you-can-eat food festival, Pasta Supreme.
Held at the Chinese Benevolent Association (CBA), a steady stream of patrons came out to enjoy the delectable delights of 10 of eastern Jamaica's best choices for catering.
Either side of the CBA hall of was lined with steamy stalls, emitting scents from cheeses, meats and the distinct aroma of sizzling shellfish. Fuzion Food Service was a sure hit, with the interestingly tantalising Red Stripe jackfruit pasta, served with spicy chicken teriyaki.
The popular Jojo's Jerk Pit, offered its version of Sunday Dinner baked mac and cheese with beef chucks.
Great House Caterers also made a mark with its chicken mac and cheese spring rolls and jerk sausage penne pasta.
From 3 to 6 p.m., patrons were offered a complimentary glass of wine.
During this time, the bar was 'cash only'. Patrons had to purchase drink tickets at a station that was at times choked by the cashiers being forced to write orders on scraps of paper. Even with the later addition of a POS machine, paying for drinks was cumbersome. Access to the bar, however, was fairly easy. Central in the space, the bar was a few steps away from each food station.
Unlike the line for drink tickets, the lines at the food stations moved like well-oiled machines. However, the steady procession of bodies in the small auditorium added to the heat from the caterers' warmers and stoves, causing some patrons to seek refuge on the front steps of the venue.
Great feedback
Despite the heat, event organiser Dominic McDowell told The Gleaner, they had received some "great feedback from the patrons", and there will definitely be improvements for the next staging.
Part-proceeds from the event will go to the Sickle Cell Association of Jamaica and Palliative Care Association of Jamaica.
"The choice to support the charities", said McDowell, "was based on the fact that we are building a brand and an experience, which is not only unique, but also serving a greater purpose, hence, 'Pasta With A Purpose'."
As the first of it's kind, Pasta Supreme displayed the potential of a stylish and satisfying affair, if it's next staging finds a larger venue, with more ventilation.
The musical ambiance was set alternately by Coppershot and XFactor Sounds .