News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. April 14, 2026: A Caribbean restaurant in New York City has taken the top spot in one of the food industry’s most influential rankings, marking a major moment for Caribbean cuisine on the global stage.
Kabawa, located in Manhattan’s East Village, has been named the best restaurant in the United States in Food & Wine’s 2026 Global Tastemakers Awards. The honor places the relatively new establishment ahead of some of the country’s most celebrated dining destinations.
Opened just last year, Kabawa is led by Barbados-born Chef Paul Carmichael and backed by the Momofuku restaurant group. But while it operates within a globally recognized brand, Kabawa has carved out its own identity by putting Caribbean flavors and storytelling at the center of the dining experience.
The restaurant occupies the former space of Momofuku Ko, once known for its high-concept tasting menus. Kabawa has taken a different approach, offering a more vibrant and communal experience built around a three-course menu that draws heavily from the Caribbean diaspora.
Dishes reflect a bold and unapologetic celebration of Caribbean cuisine. The menu features items such as red pepper shrimp, breadfruit tostones, jerk duck sausage and slow-roasted goat served in a spicy Creole sauce. The format encourages sharing, creating what many describe as a more relaxed and immersive experience compared to traditional fine dining.
Carmichael has emphasized that Kabawa is about more than food. He has described the restaurant as a space that blends hospitality, culture and storytelling, often referring to his role as a “master of ceremonies” rather than a traditional chef.
That philosophy extends beyond the kitchen. The restaurant’s atmosphere is designed to feel lively and welcoming, with staff interacting freely with guests and creating an environment that reflects the warmth and energy of Caribbean culture.
The drinks program follows the same theme, featuring cocktails inspired by Caribbean ingredients such as coconut and sorrel, alongside a strong focus on rum. Next door, Bar Kabawa continues the experience with a more casual setting that includes Caribbean snacks and a high-energy playlist.
According to Food & Wine, what set Kabawa apart was not just its technical execution, but its ability to convey a strong sense of place and identity through food. The Global Tastemakers Awards are compiled with input from chefs, travel experts and industry insiders, highlighting restaurants that offer unique and meaningful dining experiences.
For many in the Caribbean diaspora, Kabawa’s recognition represents more than a culinary achievement. It signals a growing global appreciation for Caribbean cuisine, which has often been underrepresented in fine dining despite its rich history and influence.
As Kabawa continues to gain attention, the spotlight on Caribbean food is expected to grow, opening doors for more chefs and restaurants to showcase the region’s flavors on the world stage.
