Alicante showcases its gastronomy in Madrid as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy

Alicante has starred in a prominent event in Madrid to present its designation as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy, an initiative that highlights the excellence of its culinary offerings. The event took place at the Alabaster restaurant, where personalities, food critics, and specialized press enjoyed an exclusive lunch prepared by Alicante chefs Sergio Sierra (El Portal) and Pablo Montoro (Espacio Montoro), in collaboration with the host restaurant's chefs.

Alicante's mayor, Luis Barçala, highlighted during the event "the enormous richness of Terreta's gastronomy," emphasizing the famous Alicante rice dishes, of which there are more than 300 varieties. Barçala invited attendees to visit the city and immerse themselves in its culinary culture, linked to its lifestyle and hospitality. He also thanked the hospitality sector for its commitment to making this gastronomic year "a memorable period for Alicante." The event was attended by about 50 people, including recognized figures like former president Mariano Rajoy, designer Ágatha Ruiz de la Prada, MasterChef finalist Jiaping Jan, and influencer Marta López Álamo. Also present were the president of the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy, Mariano Palacín, and the president of the Spanish Gastronomy Academy, Luis Suárez de Lezo. The menu fused tradition and innovation with delights like coca amb tonyna, a creamy shrimp rice, and avant-garde creations like tataki de lechola. For dessert, nougat with meringue and nougat ice cream was offered. The tourism and hospitality sector associations APHA, APEHA, ARA, and ALROA also participated in the event, with The Whisper Cocktail Company crafting creative cocktails under the direction of Héctor Castelló and José Manuel Ramos.

This event marks the beginning of the promotion of Alicante as a gastronomic destination at FITUR 2025, where the Tourism Board will focus its efforts on establishing the city as a national and international culinary reference.