This November, our Barbados resort is thrilled to welcome celebrity Chef Ron Duprat to the beachfront pureocean Restaurant. He’ll give valuable insight to our restaurant staff, lead a fun and insightful cooking lesson for guests, and prepare a delectable five-course menu with wine pairings. The Cooking Beyond Borders event on Barbados is bound to be unforgettable. Get to know Chef, and book your spot today!
Q: You’ve competed on shows like Top Chef, Iron Chef, and Beat Bobby Flay. How have those experiences influenced your approach to cooking today? Any fun anecdotes/memorable moments from these experiences?
A: Those shows really pushed me to trust my instincts and to think fast without compromising flavor or creativity. The pressure is real, but it teaches you how to stay calm and lead with passion, even when the clock is ticking. One of my favorite moments was on Iron Chef, where I turned a mystery ingredient into something that reminded me of home. Seeing the judges connect emotionally to that dish—that was unforgettable. Those experiences reminded me that food is universal, but your story is what makes it special.
Q: The event is called Cooking Beyond Borders. What does that phrase mean to you?
A: For me, “Cooking Beyond Borders” is about breaking barriers—cultural, culinary, and personal. It’s about honoring where you come from while embracing inspiration from everywhere. I see food as a bridge that connects people across languages, beliefs, and backgrounds. Every dish is an opportunity to tell a story that transcends geography.
Q: You’ve cooked for presidents, celebrities, and at many prestigious locations. How do you bring that same level of creativity and care to a more intimate dinner like this one?
A: Whether I’m cooking for a president or a small group of guests, my goal is always the same—to make them feel seen, appreciated, and delighted. In an intimate setting, there’s an even greater opportunity to connect through food. I focus on detail, presentation, and flow, but more importantly, I want every guest to feel like the menu was created just for them.
Q: What can guests look forward to tasting or experiencing during the 4-course Food & Wine Pairing Dinner?
A: Expect a journey that celebrates bold flavors, elegance, and storytelling. Each course is inspired by the islands, the sea, and the idea of cultural fusion. I’ll be blending techniques and ingredients from the Caribbean with global influences—think layers of spice, texture, and aroma—all paired perfectly with beautiful wines that elevate the experience. It’s going to be soulful, refined, and fun.
Q: You’re also leading a Cooking School the day before. What do you enjoy most about teaching and cooking with students?
A: I love seeing that spark in someone’s eyes when they realize they can create something extraordinary. Cooking is a form of empowerment—it connects us to our roots and gives us the freedom to express ourselves. I always tell my students, “Cook with intention, not intimidation.” Sharing my techniques and stories, and then seeing others bring their own twist to it, is incredibly rewarding.
Q: Will you be using any Barbados-specific ingredients? What’s it like to cook on different islands/continents?
A: Absolutely! Barbados has such rich ingredients—fresh seafood, local herbs, spices, tropical fruits—it’s a dream for any chef. I love adapting to what the land and sea give me. Cooking in different places challenges you to respect local traditions while bringing your own perspective. It keeps your creativity alive and your flavors honest.
Q: Finally, what do you hope guests take away from this weekend?
A: I hope they leave inspired—not just by the food, but by the connection. I want them to experience how flavor, culture, and storytelling can bring people together in a powerful way. If guests walk away feeling nourished in both body and soul, then I’ve done my job.