Travel to the Cayman Islands in a Cocktail

“We actually have a saying here,” explains Cristian Coro. “It is known as ‘CaymanKind’ which is how we describe the culture in a nutshell. It’s always very friendly and so helpful.”

Coro would know. As the Food & Beverage Manager at the The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa, the native Italian has been living on the breezy Caribbean island for the past 17 years. Taking in its idyllic sights, it isn’t hard to see why he stuck around.

Located due south of Florida (an hour and a half flight from Miami, to be exact), the sunny oasis is fueled by influences the world over. “We’re considered the culinary capital of the Caribbean due to a melting pot of cultures residing on the island which is made up of 50% expats,” explains Coro. “Due to this, cuisine from many countries is available at any given time, and all are cooked to perfection.”

Coro utilizes those influences to their full effect. “At the moment we have 17 bartenders alone from different countries including France, Greece, the Philippines, Italy, Australia, Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, and The Netherlands,” he explains.

“This allows us to implement incredible cocktail menus across our four bars, time and time again because our associates take the experience and their unique cultural backgrounds from their home countries.”

Flanked by the ocean, the property where Coro works his magic features a pristine beach, epic pools, and serene spa, the drink and food scene includes a bevy of operations including Ferdinands (with its famed barbeque-focused brunches) to Beach House (which boasts seafood and views of the sea itself). In addition, there’s the Asian fusion restaurant wot, lobby bar Catboat, and outdoor gathering point Tortuga’s, the latter borrowing its name from the island’s iconic turtles. And, yes, one of the pools boasts a swim-up bar as well.

When it comes to their diverse menus, the beverage team throws what they call “think tank” sessions.

“We experiment and derive special cocktails and drinks using their varied knowledge to produce unique, world-infused cocktails, all with a Caribbean and Cayman Islands twist.”

It’s probably no surprise that one of the most famous tropical cocktails, the Mudslide (made with vodka, coffee liqueur, Irish cream, and heavy cream) has its roots here on Grand Cayman Island. “It originated at Rum Point,” says Coro of the tropical community, which sits at the northern tip of the island.

However, here at the Westin, he points to the Moustache as one of the most popular libations for guests and locals. “It is important for us to showcase these drinks originating from Cayman as a lot of our guests want to experience all that there is to know about this little slice of paradise among serene Caribbean Sea views in the blissful sunshine and live music playing.

Make your own Moustache at home using Coro’s recipe below.