Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
Nalini Jagnarine entertains with some seductive dance moves at the Asian Food Festival, held in the gardens of the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, New Kingston, on Wednesday. - WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
THE GARDENS of the Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston were transformed for Wednesday and Thursday night from the usual state to a locale reflecting a true melting pot of Asian culture for 'A taste of Asia' - an Asian Food Festival.
The evening showcased the traditional cuisine and cultural items of India, Japan, China, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
The culturally specific décor of the venue set the mood for the evening with Chinese lanterns lighting up the night and a miniature Taj Mahal housing the Indian cuisine.
Festivities kicked off with a musical interlude of traditional music from all of the represented countries.
Soon enough, cocktails were served, after which hotel manager Nancy Mclean, and one of the co-ordinators of the festival gave the welcome, opening remarks and acknowledgements. She thanked the sponsors - who included Lascelles Wines and Spirits, Shell Gas, Lasco, Love 101 FM, Jamaica Broilers, National Meats, Rainforest and MC Décor - for their involvement in the festival before giving the go-ahead for dinner to be served.
The patrons were treated to a wide variety of delightful food, drink and pastries in keeping with the Asian theme - of course. The most exciting part of the evening was undoubtedly the entertainment segment. There was a feats of traditional Indian dances and also the Chinese Lion Dance, which proved to be the most intriguing yet frightening performance of them all. The remainder of the evening was filled background music from each of the represented countries.
Some of those present included: Colonel Ken Barnes and his wife Jean, Muna Issa and Zane Nakash, Sophia Max Brown, Steven Jones and Isiah Laing.
