Two European Regions of Gastronomy have been internationally recognised as bucket list foodie destinations by Epicure food magazine, demonstrating how the title can boost local gastronomy as a unique selling point for regions.
Riga-Gauja, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2017 and Barcelona (Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2016) are highlighted among the 10 must-visit gastronomic destinations in an article by Priyanka Elhence, published on Epicure’s July 2018 issue.
The author quotes regional ambassador for Riga-Gauja, European Region of Gastronomy awarded 2017, Dzintars Kristovskis who stated: “We aren’t creating a new trend with our Latvian cuisine, we’re just returning to our roots. We’re going back to the distinctive tastes of pure regional cuisine of this area.” Words that perfectly represent the Wild at Palate concept developed by Riga-Gauja through its European Region of Gastronomy programme and based on the use of fresh, seasonal local products.
Catalonia is then presented as a region hosting 55 Michelin-starred restaurants and homeland to 12 appellations of origin for wines and cava. The focus is on Barcelona, the regional capital, and the many gastronomic experiences available in the city, from food festivals to local markets.
Epicure is a monthly food magazine based in Singapore identifying the latest trends and destinations in the local and international culinary scene.
Read original article at www.epicureasia.com (subscription needed).
About the European Region of Gastronomy
Candidate and awarded Regions of Gastronomy from Europe, guided by IGCAT, are working together to raise awareness about the importance of their cultural and food uniqueness and share the long-term aim to: promote a better quality of life in European regions; highlight distinctive food cultures; educate for better health and sustainability; nurture creativity; improve tourism standards; and stimulate gastronomic innovation.
About IGCAT
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 aims to empower local communities by guiding, facilitating, and supporting leaders in regions to understand the potential of their distinct food, culture, arts and sustainable tourism assets.
IGCAT provides the Region of Gastronomy Award and is the official secretariat for the European Region of Gastronomy Platform. Furthermore, the Institute has developed the European Young Chef Award the Local Food Gift Challenge, the Top Food Experiences of the Year and the Food Film Festivals project.