The International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Art, and Tourism (IGCAT) has Awarded Central Dalmatia the prestigious title of European Region of Gastronomy 2027, recognising the region’s outstanding commitment to local gastronomy, cultural heritage, and sustainable, community-driven tourism. This distinction highlights the core values IGCAT promotes: fostering collaboration, celebrating culinary and cultural diversity, and encouraging innovation for a more sustainable future.
On 27 November 2025, Central Dalmatia celebrated this milestone at Barcelona University’s historical building, in Barcelona, Catalonia Region, during the European Young Chef Award 2025 programme. Political representatives, tourism leaders, culinary experts, influencers, and IGCAT delegates gathered for the occasion, where Dr. Diane Dodd, President of IGCAT and Cristina Massot, Secretary General of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries and Food, representing Catalonia World Region of Gastronomy 2025, officially presented the title to representatives of Central Dalmatia.
Dr. Diane Dodd praised Central Dalmatia’s inspiring vision and deep-rooted commitment to sustainable, creative, and community-driven gastronomy, noting: «Central Dalmatia’s bid shows a region with clarity, ambition, and unity. Its commitment to sustainability, education, and biodiversity—supported by remarkable cross-sector teamwork—forms a powerful foundation for a resilient gastronomic future. It stands as a truly deserving candidate for European Region of Gastronomy 2027.»
Cristina Massot also shared a few words: «The distinction of the World Region of Gastronomy is an honor earned through efforts and shared responsibility. Dalmatian gastronomy shares with Catalonia, values that we deeply appreciate; our Mediterranean roots, a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation, and strong commitment to the territory of the products and its people. We are certain that you will turn this distinction into a project of future collective pride and momentum for your gastronomic and tourism sectors.»
Ivana Vladović, Director of Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board, also expressed the region’s enthusiasm and appreciation: “This is a moment that will remain in the hearts of all of us in the region. Dalmatian gastronomy is a ritual that goes beyond food itself, it is a table full of stories, conversations that last for hours, bread passed around by hands, and flavours carried through generations. This title recognizes our tradition and quality, and as the Tourist Board, we will do everything in our power to promote excellence, preserve authenticity, and showcase the beauty of Dalmatian gastronomy to the world at every opportunity.”
IGCAT’s award emphasises the importance of safeguarding local identity, strengthening culinary heritage, and recognising food’s essential role in uniting communities. The celebration in Catalonia also highlighted the excellence of Central Dalmatia’s gastronomy through tastings that showcased local ingredients and traditional flavours. Chefs, producers, and partners demonstrated the region’s commitment to quality, biodiversity, and authentic culinary expression.
Central Dalmatia is already preparing an ambitious programme leading up to 2027, including gastronomy festivals, conferences, cultural events, and community-based initiatives to present the region’s unique flavours and traditions. With the active involvement of producers, restaurateurs, tourism stakeholders, and cultural organisations, the region is poised to represent its distinctive identity proudly as a European Region of Gastronomy.
This Award not only recognizes Central Dalmatia’s current achievements but also lays the foundation for a vibrant and sustainable future rooted in innovation, cooperation, and respect for cultural and culinary heritage, values that stand at the heart of IGCAT’s mission.
About the World/European Regions of Gastronomy
European Regions of Gastronomy, guided by IGCAT, are working together to strengthen food security through the celebration of distinctive food cultures; create employment by stimulating creativity and gastronomic innovation; nourish children and adults through culinary and cultural education; driving environmental sustainability in tourism, hospitality and agricultural sectors; supporting balance and sustainable tourism practices; highlighting and supporting expertise from within rural and urban communities, creating connections and sharing good practices; and contributing to community health and well-being.
About IGCAT
IGCAT aims to empower local communities by raising awareness of the importance of protecting and promoting distinct regional food, culture, arts and natural assets as part of sustainable and balanced tourism and development strategies. This is essential to safeguarding our planet, health, wellness and local economies.
IGCAT is a non-profit institute established in 2012, 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 founded the World/European Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the World/European Regions of Gastronomy Platforms. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award, the World Food Gift Challenge, the Top Foodie Websites and the international Food Film Menu.
