Evelyn-Nesbitt at Esmie enjoying johnny cakes and saltfish.
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By Javincia Birch
Nevis is gaining increased international attention as a destination rich in culinary tradition and cultural authenticity, following a feature by popular travel vlogger David Hoffmann of Davidsbeenhere.
The video highlights Hoffmann’s immersive food tour of the island guided by local culinary ambassador Kashma Evelyn-Nesbitt and her husband Jeffrey Nesbitt, widely known as “Food for Kash.”
With a global audience of more than 1.4 million YouTube subscribers, Hoffmann’s visit provided a major platform to showcase Nevis’ unique blend of food, culture, and community.
During his visit, Hoffmann sampled a wide range of traditional dishes, including Johnny cakes and saltfish, Ital cuisine, goat water, green sea turtle stew, lobster empanadas, local barbecue, and sea moss jelly, along with locally crafted overproof rum and rum punches.
Beyond the cuisine, the vlogger also explored key historical and cultural sites, including the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, while capturing the island’s scenic landscapes, colonial architecture, and relaxed atmosphere.
The tour concluded with an upscale dining experience that blended traditional flavours with modern culinary techniques. Hoffmann also visited neighbouring St. Kitts as part of the broader feature.
Speaking with The Observer, Jeffrey Nesbitt described the experience as both rewarding and a testament to the importance of authenticity in promoting Nevis.
“He really wanted to try as much local Nevis food as he could… he didn’t want to do any touristy spots,” Nesbitt said, noting Hoffmann’s genuine interest in the island’s culture.
He added that traditional dishes such as turtle soup and stewed turtle, stood out among the vlogger’s favourites, along with Ital cuisine.
Nesbitt also highlighted Hoffmann’s appreciation for the island’s atmosphere.
“He liked the energy… the laidback feeling,” he said, adding that the visitor was particularly impressed by the privacy, tranquility, and beaches of Nevis.
Kashma Evelyn-Nesbitt emphasised the level of coordination required to bring the production together, describing it as a fast-paced but rewarding effort.
“I sent him an email… and he responded right away,” she recalled, explaining that the visit was arranged within weeks and completed in a single day. “Once he gave me the green light, I started using all the
contacts I had in Nevis… it was a lot of legwork.”
She noted that sourcing traditional dishes midweek presented challenges, as some meals are not typically prepared on certain days.
“People don’t normally prepare certain local foods on a Wednesday… everywhere we went, people really came through. It wasn’t about payment, it was about exposure,” she said.
Mrs. Nesbitt underscored the role of community in shaping the experience, highlighting the willingness of individuals across the island to contribute.
“Ninety percent of people will tell you, the people are what make Nevis… every single person you saw, I had to reach out to personally, and everyone showed up,” she said.
She added that the feature carries broader significance for the island’s visibility.
“It’s a way of putting us on the map… and giving us a chance to shine on our own,” she noted, referencing the positive reception following its release.
Although the video was published on April 11, 2026, it was filmed earlier on February 11. Hoffmann’s reflections within the feature captured the essence of the island’s appeal.
“This is what the Caribbean is about… taking your shoes off, jumping in that ocean… there’s something amazing about seeing the mountain every day and then seeing the ocean at the same time, it blows your
mind,” he said.
He also praised the island’s hospitality. “I love how the restaurants are here. It’s like you’re at somebody’s house every time… you feel like you’re home,” Hoffmann added.
The feature underscores the growing role of digital media in promoting Nevis globally, with local stakeholders leveraging authentic storytelling and community collaboration to elevate the island’s profile on the international stage.
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