WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao’s celebrated chef and culinary entrepreneur Helmi Smeulders has achieved one of the highest honors in the food world. Her newest cookbook, My Curaçao – A Culinary Road Trip, has been named Best Caribbean Cookbook in the World 2025 at the prestigious Gourmand Awards. The accolade was presented this past weekend during the Saudi Feast Food Festival in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Smeulders, internationally known as The Caribbean Chef, has long been recognized for elevating Caribbean cuisine on the global stage. With this award, her latest work joins the ranks of the world’s most distinguished culinary publications.
During the ceremony, jury president Edouard Cointreau praised the book for its cultural richness and authentic portrayal of Curaçao’s food heritage. In the official certificate, he wrote:
“Thank you, Helmi Smeulders, a true cultural ambassador of Curaçao, for this Culinary Road Trip. By highlighting the island's local farms, coastal bounty, and indigenous ingredients through your personal stories, expert guidance, and stunning photography, you share the very soul of Curaçao with the world, inspiring both creativity in the kitchen and a passion for culinary exploration.”
My Curaçao – A Culinary Road Trip takes readers across the island through vivid storytelling, stunning photography and a collection of recipes rooted in tradition yet presented with modern flair. The book highlights farmers, fishermen and local producers, making it both a culinary guide and a cultural tribute.
With this global recognition, Smeulders once again places Curaçao’s cuisine on the international map, showcasing the island’s flavors, history and creativity to a worldwide audience.