TORONTO CELEBRATES 'JAMAICAN PATTY DAY' ON FEBRUARY 23
Annual food holiday pays tribute to Toronto's influential Jamaican community and the city's legendary Patty Wars
TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2023 /CNW/ - The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) is once again inviting Canadians to sink their teeth into one of the island's favourite snack foods on Thursday, February 23 in celebration of Jamaican Patty Day. Now in its 38th year, the annual food-focused holiday pays tribute to the legendary beef between Toronto's Jamaican patty vendors and local food inspectors.
In February 1985, the infamous 'Patty Wars' took over Toronto streets when local authorities decided the city's Jamaican patty vendors could no longer use the term "beef patties" to describe their offerings. Following a series of heated negotiations, the patty vendors prevailed in a ruling on February 23 and the day has been known henceforth as Jamaican Patty Day in Toronto.
Almost 40 years later, Toronto's Jamaican community continues to play an important role in shaping the city's food scene. Today, local patty enthusiasts are embroiled in delicious disputes over which patty purveyors serve up the tastiest meat-filled pastry pockets in the city. From humble patty stands on the subway line to family-owned bakeries to trendy contemporary Caribbean restaurants, Toronto is home to an array of eateries where foodies can satisfy their cravings for authentic Jamaican patties.
"There's no doubt Torontonians are incredibly passionate about Jamaica's iconic snack food, and everyone has an opinion about who makes the best beef patty in town," said Angella Bennett, Regional Director, Canada, Jamaica Tourist Board. "From the historic Patty Wars of 1985 to today, Jamaicans have been making their mark on Toronto's culinary landscape for decades. On February 23 we encourage everyone in the city – and beyond – to sample a true taste of the Caribbean and pick up some patties in honour of Jamaican Patty Day."
From juicy beef patties to spicy jerk chicken, Jamaica's signature cuisine makes the Caribbean Island a bucket-list destination for travellers looking to awaken their tastebuds. To learn more about the vibrant culinary scene in Jamaica, go to visitjamaica.com/feel-the-vibe/cuisine.
About The Jamaica Tourist Board
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica's national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are located in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Tokyo and Paris.
In 2021, the JTB was declared 'World's Leading Cruise Destination,' 'World's Leading Family Destination' and 'World's Leading Wedding Destination' for the second consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named it the 'Caribbean's Leading Tourist Board' for the 14th consecutive year; and the 'Caribbean's Leading Destination' for the 16th consecutive year; as well as the 'Caribbean's Best Nature Destination' and the 'Caribbean's Best Adventure Tourism Destination.' In addition, Jamaica was awarded four gold 2021 Travvy Awards, including 'Best Destination, Caribbean/Bahamas,' 'Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean,' Best Travel Agent Academy Program,'; as well as a TravelAge West WAVE award for 'International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support' for a record-setting 10th time. In 2020, the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) named Jamaica the 2020 'Destination of the Year for Sustainable Tourism'. In 2019, TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #1 Caribbean Destination and #14 Best Destination in the World. Jamaica is home to some of the world's best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition.
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB's Website at www.visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube.
SOURCE Jamaica Tourist Board
Jessica Napier, Fever Pitch Marketing Communications, 416.873.8597, [email protected]
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