IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance to protect and promote distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguard our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2010, working with regional stakeholder consortiums in the fields of gastronomy, culture, arts and tourism. It counts on the expertise of a worldwide network of experts and works in partnership with specialised intergovernmental organisations.
IGCAT provides the European and World Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World Region of Gastronomy and the European Region of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Awards, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Foodie Websites Awards and the International Food Film Menu Awards.
World Gastronomy Summit 2025
Organised by IGCAT and hosted by the Autonomous Government of Catalonia, the 1st World Gastronomy Summit took place in Catalonia, World Region of Gastronomy awarded 2025, on 27 September 2025.
The event brought together international experts, policymakers, and cultural leaders to explore the role of food in shaping more sustainable and inclusive futures.
IGCAT NEWS
SUBSCRIBE FOR IGCAT NEWSCelebrating Regional Food Excellence: Insights from Webinar in Raising Standards Through Food Guides
Drawing on her experience establishing the award-winning Scottish Food Guide in 2002, Wendy Barrie, cook, food...
MoreJeddah-Taif approved for the title of World Region of Gastronomy 2027
An international Jury composed of five international experts considered the application of Jeddah-Taif for the title...
MoreSicily European Region of Gastronomy 2025 is at the beginning of a longer legacy
Sicily’s year as European Region of Gastronomy 2025 has marked a defining chapter in the island’s cultural and...
MoreJeddah-Taif Joins the World Region of Gastronomy Platform as a Candidate for 2027 Award
In a significant step for the Middle East and the global gastronomy community, Jeddah–Taif has been officially...
MoreIGCAT at the 40th Anniversary of Catalan Tourism
IGCAT was honoured to take part in the 40th anniversary celebration of Catalan tourism, organised by the Agència...
MoreManabí Hosts First Young Chef Competition
Manabí, World Region of Gastronomy 2026, successfully organised and hosted the inaugural Manabí Young Chef...
MoreIGCAT President Participates in Slow Food ESPAM MFL 2025 Event with a Keynote Address
Dr Diane Dodd, President of the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT), delivered...
MoreRegions of Gastronomy Exchange Knowledge and Innovation at InnoDays 2025 in Crete
The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT) is pleased to highlight the valuable...
MoreCentral Dalmatia officially Awarded European Region of Gastronomy 2027
The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Art, and Tourism (IGCAT) has Awarded Central Dalmatia the...
MoreWinner of the European Young Chef Award 2025 announced!
Ioannis Liapakis from Crete European Region of Gastronomy 2026 was awarded European Young Chef for 2025 on 27...
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