PUERTO VALLARTA, JALISCO – The esteemed Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomic Festival is set to unveil its 15th edition after marking its presence for 14 consecutive years. Celebrated as Latin America’s pinnacle of gastronomy, this year’s festival will be held from September 29 to October 7, 2023, at Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco.
What’s New This Year?
The central theme for this edition is “The Cooking Factor: Cooking a New Era”, focusing on the radical transformations the culinary, tourism, and restoration industries have undergone, particularly in the wake of the global pandemic. Consuelo Elipe, Director of the Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomy Festival, states, “Last year, the emphasis was on sustainable gastronomy. This year, we’re looking towards the future, adapting and evolving in the face of changes.”
During the 9-day gastronomic extravaganza, attendees will be graced with the presence of over 52 chefs, 20 of Mexico’s most avant-garde mixologists, four sommeliers, ten speakers, and 50+ cooking-related activities, all held at the Krystal Grand Nuevo Vallarta hotel.
Stellar Line-Up
Guests can look forward to:
- Live show cooking
- Premium Tastings
- Gourmet Workshops
- An Expo Zone to sample gastronomy from various states, guided by Ambassador Chefs.
- Master lectures
- Expert panels
- Exclusive business and networking opportunities
- And many other events over two action-packed days.
Esteemed chefs joining the event include Chef Begoña Rodrigo, Chef Pepe Solla, Chef Kisco García, and Chef Carlos Gaytán. Spain, known for its culinary excellence, will be the guest country of honor.
Notable Mentions
Other participants include Pía Salazar, awarded the Best Pastry Chef in the World by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Alejandro Chamorro of Nuema Restaurant, and David Castro and Maribel Aldaco of Fauna Mexican Restaurant, to name a few.
The star-studded list also features celebrities like Inés Páez Nin, the ‘Chef Tita’ from MasterChef Dominican Republic, and Chef Betty Vázquez, a MasterChef México judge.
A Culinary Confluence
Carlos Elizondo, Director of Vallarta Nayarit Gastronómica, emphasized, “We’re celebrating 15 years of dedication, aiming to bring world-class chefs to the festival, ensuring a memorable experience for our audience.”
This festival is a testament to Puerto Vallarta’s rising stature as a global gastronomic hotspot, representing not just Jalisco but the rich culinary heritage of Mexico.
The official announcement was made in the presence of prominent figures like Héctor Tejada Schaar, Joel Ocampo, Janet Lozada, Ezequiel Montes Querétaro, Luis Felipe Bravo Mena, Fernando Villalba Torres, among many others.
Collaborative Efforts
This year’s event marks a unique collaboration between Mexico and Spain, amplifying the culinary narratives of both nations. Spain’s decision to partner and work closely with the Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomic Festival is a testament to the growing recognition and respect for Mexican gastronomy globally.
“Spain’s participation showcases the camaraderie and commitment to taking international cuisine to higher echelons,” elucidated Carlos Elizondo. Such collaborations reflect the intricate fabric of culinary artistry, uniting nations and gastronomes.
A Culinary Journey
Beyond tasting, the festival promises a sensory journey into the depths of gastronomy. The themed ‘Cooking Factor’ discusses the future of food and delves into its past and present. Attendees can expect panels on traditional cooking methods, flavors’ evolution, and culinary technology innovations.
Moreover, the workshops and master lectures offer a unique chance for budding chefs and culinary enthusiasts to hone their skills, learning from some of the best in the business.
A Boost for Tourism
Puerto Vallarta’s emergence as a gastronomic hub also translates to a boost in tourism. The festival’s ability to draw a global audience only reiterates the region’s allure for its food and cultural and natural richness. The tourism industry, significantly impacted by the pandemic, sees events like these as catalysts for resurgence.
Wrapping Up
The Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomic Festival is more than just an event; it’s a movement celebrating food, culture, and shared histories. The anticipation is palpable as the festival gears up for its 15th edition. From the chefs and organizers to attendees waiting to be mesmerized, everyone looks forward to what promises to be a memorable culinary fiesta.
PUERTO VALLARTA, JALISCO – The esteemed Vallarta Nayarit Gastronomic Festival is set to unveil its 15th edition after marking its presence for 14 consecutive years . . .
