Hyatt Regency Trinidad recently came alive with the flavors of Cuba and successfully hosted its first Cuban Food Festival. As part of The 2011 Cuban Arts & Food Festival, which took place in Trinidad from May 23 to June 4, authentic Cuban cuisine by Chef Santiago Gutierrez and entertainment provided by Cuban trio Son de Cuba were featured.

The hotel, in collaboration with COPA Airlines, Y Art & Framing Gallery and Horizons Framing and Décor Ltd., showcased the best of Cuba’s artistry and culinary talents at its Waterfront restaurant.

From the Sevilla Hotel in Havana, Chef Santiago Gutierrez shared his culinary talents and with Hyatt Regency Trinidad’s own Executive Chef, Fernando Franco, presented a specially created menu highlighting the best of Cuban cuisine. A fusion of Spanish, African and Caribbean cuisines, Cuban recipes include spices and techniques from Spain and Africa with some Caribbean influence in the spices and flavor. This results in a unique, interesting and flavorful blend of the different cultural influences.

“We were pleased to be a part of this celebration and to share a taste of Cuba with our guests and the community, “said Russell George, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Trinidad. “We enjoy supporting cultural events and were excited about this first Cuban Arts and Food Festival.”

Hyatt Regency Trinidad, 800-233-1234, www.hyatt.com