The legend of chef José Andrés grows as his 2018 Cayman Cookout entrance managed to top previous years in spectacle and lure. A morning crowd mixed with guests, talent and staff gathered on Seven Mile Beach to witness this annual tradition. “What will José do this year” was quickly answered as the James Bond theme song played on the Ritz-Carlton, Grand Cayman’s PA system and a humming sound of a helicopter ascended from a buzz to a roar. As the chopper finally came into view, the incomparable José then peered and waved from the cockpit with a hasty flyby for his fans below. After a majestic turn, the whirlybird delivered José to his final destination – 20 yards from the shore and 15ft above the water. His drop from the landing skids was surprisingly smooth and his swim to shore seemed effortless. There José was met by the large crowd with awe and appreciation. All were playfully dispersed as the chef got his hands on a champagne gun, spraying the captivated crowd. After a swift t-shirt change, José was ready for his signature demonstration, Olé José.
